Steam turbines are subjected to extreme thermal expansion due to high operating temperatures, which can lead to excessive vibration amplitudes and/or elevated bearing metal temperatures. Uneven thermal expansion can cause casing distortion, misalignment, and pipe strain, and in some cases may even lead to rotor–casing rubbing. These conditions may prevent the unit from reaching normal operating states, resulting in penalties within the power generation industry. Thermal (load

We were engaged to perform vibration measurement and analysis of a 260 MW Francis turbine and generator and recommended a solution to...