Design and Validation of a Compressor for a New Generation of Heavy-Duty Gas Turbines

Siemens H-Class. Siemens has developed the world-largest H-class Gas Turbine (SGT™) that sets unparalleled standards for high efficiency, low life cycle costs and operating flexibility. With a power output of 340+ MW, the SGT5–8000H gas turbine will be the primary driver of the new Siemens Combined Cycle Power Plant (SCC™) for the 50 Hz market, the SCC5–8000H, with an output of 530+ MW at more than 60% efficiency. After extensive lab and component testing, the prototype has been shipped to the power plant for an 18-month validation phase. In this paper, the compressor technology, which was developed for the Siemens H-class, is presented through its development and validation phases. Reliability and Availability. The compressor has been extensively validated in the Siemens Berlin Test Facility during consecutive engine test programs. All key parameters, such as mass flow, operating range, efficiency and aero mechanical behavior meet or exceed expectations. Six-sigma methodology has been exploited throughout the development to implement the technologies into a robust design. Efficiency. The new compressor technology applies the Siemens advanced aerodynamics design methodology based on the high performance airfoil (HPA) systematic which leads to broader operation range and higher efficiency than a standard controlled diffusion airfoil (CDA) design. Operational Flexibility. The compressor features an IGV and three rows of variable guide vanes for improved turndown capability and improved part load efficiency. Serviceability. The design has been optimized for serviceability and less complexity. Following the Siemens tradition, all compressor rotating blades can be replaced without rotor lift or destacking. Evolutionary Design Innovation. The compressor design incorporates the best features and experience from the operating fleets and technology innovation prepared through detailed research, analysis and lab testing in the past decade. The design tools are based on best practices from former Siemens KWU and Westinghouse with enhancements allowing for routine front-to-back compressor 3D CFD multistage analysis, unsteady blade row interaction, forced response analyses and aero-elastic analysis.