Large Steam Turbine Exhaust Expansion Joints Built for Fuji Electric

Fuji Electric, a Japan based turbine manufacturer, produces turbines for a variety of applications. For an electric generating plant in the Philippines, Fuji produced 4 large diameter turbines to be powered by geothermal steam. Senior Flexonics Pathway was chosen to be the supplier of the duct and expansion joints that conveyed the exhaust steam from the turbines to the condensers.

The Senior Flexonics Pathway work scope included design of the ducting system and duct system support structures. Senior Flexonics Pathway also took responsibility for the performance of the duct/expansion joint system with regard to pressure drop and load limits on the condenser and turbine nozzles. The duct design and load conditions were documented with Caesar 11. Caesar 11 is a pipe stress program that is frequently used at Senior Flexonics Pathway because it accommodates expansion joint modeling better than most other programs.

Each 108" diameter pressure balanced expansion and duct was shipped in four pieces that had a combined total weight of 69,400 pounds. The pressure balanced expansion joint was 303" long by 170" high. A loose piece of ducting, not shown in the photos, was 204" long.

The expansion joint included features recommended by Senior Flexonics Pathway to assist in maintaining the turbine during down periods. This included lock out devices across the bellows to stabilize the expansion joint while it is lifted to gain access to the turbine for maintenance. A cradle was also furnished with the expansion joint so that the pressure balanced assembly could be set down without tipping while the turbine is being maintained.

To find out more about Senior Flexonics Pathway capabilities and services, contact Senior Flexonics Pathway.