Gas turbines are marvels of technology, but what good is incredible tech without a way to control it? If your facility uses gas turbines, you likely also make use of gas turbine control systems. However, the control systems don\u2019t get the same amount of love as the turbines, even though they\u2019re essential to operation!<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Read on to learn more about gas turbines and some common applications of gas turbine control systems.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Gas turbines are complicated machines with three main sections: a compressor, combustion system, and turbine. The compressor is responsible for pulling and pressurizing air into the engine. This air is then fed into the combustion system, where fuel mixes with the air.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
When this mixture burns, it produces gas at a high temperature and high pressure. This gas enters the turbine, causing it to spin and rotate the turbine blades. Finally, these blades cause a generator to spin and create electricity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
While the gas turbine does all the work, the gas turbine control system keeps an eye on all the processes and maintains steady temperatures and pressures. The system also changes the fuel flow up or down to maintain a steady turbine speed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
While the applications of gas turbines reach into chemical plants, refineries, and electricity generation, the uses of gas turbine control systems are far simpler. These systems do exactly what their name suggests\u2014control gas turbines. This involves control of several temperatures, including the lube oil temperature, turbine temperature, and exhaust temperature.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
In addition, control systems also monitor and regulate the fuel gas and air intake pressures while controlling the flow of fuel gas. Control systems must also have the capability to detect gas and flames in the enclosure for safety purposes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n