Hot section exchange

VBR Turbine Partners has extensive experience conducting hot section exchanges for all variations of the LM2500 and LM6000.

A VBR on-site hot section exchange can significantly reduce costs and lower turnaround times. We will bring our expertise, specialized tooling and equipment.

Six steps in a hot section exchange

VBR follows a six-step process.

Preparation

We shut down the gas turbine and removed it from its enclosure, the package. The engine is then transferred to a dolly.

Disassembly

We verify that the engine is in the proper condition for disassembly. Then we divide the engine into sections, separating the low-pressure turbine from the gas generator.

Component removal

We inspect and remove the high-pressure turbine components, including nozzles and inner sections and extract the hot section.

Reassembly

After completing checks on various components, such as seals and shrouds, we prepare the engine for reassembly. Then the new or refurbished hot section will be installed.

Final checks

After reassembly of the unit, we place the engine back into the package. Then we connect all engine lines such as oil, gas, steam and water. Now the engine is ready for the first fire / start-up. Then we check all connections for proper installation.

Commissioning

Following the hot section exchange, the engine is ready for operation. To ensure all parameters are within specifications, we monitor baseloads and HPT rotor balance.

Plan your hot section exchange

The hot section exchange can take __days. With today’s improved blades and nozzles, you can wait even longer for a hot section exchange than the standard 25,000 operating hours.

A borescope inspection can help you closely monitor your hot section and extend its lifetime. But it can also reveal the need to overhaul your hot section sooner.

As a full-service provider, VBR can fix all problems related to LM gas turbines. We can work outdoors in all environments from deserts to arctic regions . We can perform a hot section exchange at your location or at ours in Elst, the Netherlands.