e GE Power Systems

Power Systems University

Operational Checks
Prior to startup or following major maintenance work, it is essential to check all support
systems, power sources and control devices for proper condition. These checks are
dependent on individual station procedures requirements, but may include such areas as
drain valves closed, power breakers in the on position, supply/isolation valves open,
controls in start/operation positions, any tagged out equipment returned to normal state,
all safety equipment in place.

5/12/2019 Operational Checks 1

e GE Power Systems
Power Systems University
Operational Checks (Standby Power Requirements)
Heating and circulating of turbine lube oil at low ambient temperatures to maintain proper
oil viscosity.

Control panel heating.

Generator heating.

Auxiliary lube oil pump should be run at periodic intervals to prevent rust formation in the
lube oil system.

Where fuel heaters are furnished, heat and circulate fuel oil to maintain proper oil
viscosity during periods of low ambient temperature.

Compartment heating.

Operation of control compartment air conditioner during periods of high ambient

temperature to maintain electrical equipment insulation within design temperature limits.

Battery charging.

5/12/2019 Operational Checks 2

e GE Power Systems
Power Systems University
Operational Checks (Checks Prior to Operation)
Check that all piping and turbine connections are securely fastened and that all blinds
have been removed.

Inlet and exhaust plenums and associated ducting are clean and rid of all foreign objects.
All access doors are secure.

Where fuel, air or lube oil filters have been replaced check that all covers are intact and
tight.

Verify that the lube oil tank is at operating level and filled with the recommended quality
and quantity of lube oil. If lube oil flushing has been conducted verify that all filters have
been replaced and any blinds, if used, removed.

Check operation of auxiliary and emergency equipment, such as lube oil pumps, water
pumps, fuel forwarding pumps, etc. Check for obvious leakage, abnormal vibration
(maximum 3 mils), noise or overheating.

Check lube oil piping for obvious leakage. Check sight glasses in bearing drains for oil
flow.

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e GE Power Systems
Power Systems University
Operational Checks (Checks Prior to Operation)
Check all thermocouples and/or resistance temperature detectors (RTDs) on the HMI.
Reading should be approximately ambient temperature.

Check spark plugs for proper arcing.

Devices requiring manual lubrication are to be properly serviced.

Check that the cooling water system has been properly flushed and filled with the
recommended coolant.

At this time, all annunciated faults should be cleared. Immediate action should be taken
to locate and correct the problems.

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e GE Power Systems
Power Systems University
Operational Checks (CHECKS DURING START UP AND INITIAL OPERATION)
The following is a list of important checks to be made on a new or newly overhauled
turbine with the OPERATION SELECTOR in various modes.

CAUTION
Where an electric motor is used as the starting means, refer to the Control Specifications
in regard to maximum operating time.

Crank
Listen for rubbing noises in the turbine compartment and in the reduction gear
compartment especially in the load tunnel area. Shutdown and investigate if unusual
noise occurs.

Check for unusual vibration.

Inspect for water system leakage.

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e GE Power Systems
Power Systems University
Operational Checks (CHECKS DURING START UP AND INITIAL OPERATION)
Fire
Bleed fuel oil filters, if appropriate, then check entire fuel system and the area
immediately around the fuel nozzle for leaks. In particular, check for leaks at the following
points:

Turbine Compartment
Fuel piping/tubing to fuel nozzle
Fuel check valves
Atomizing air manifold and associated piping (when used)
Gas manifold and associated piping (when used)

Accessory Compartment
Flow divider (when used)
Fuel and water pumps
Filter covers and drains

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e GE Power Systems
Power Systems University
Operational Checks (CHECKS DURING START UP AND INITIAL OPERATION)
Use mirrors to view the sight ports in the combustion chambers to visually check that
each chamber is fired, that the flame is steady and that the flame zone is centered within
the liner. In addition, assure that the crossfire tube end is not glowing. Plug and stake
sight ports once satisfactory flame conditions are obtained.

Monitor the turbine control panel readings for unusual exhaust thermocouple
temperature, wheelspace temperature, lube oil drain temperature, highest to lowest
exhaust temperature spreads and “hot spots” i.e. combustion chamber(s) burning hotter
than all the others.

Listen for unusual noises and rubbing.

Monitor for excessive vibration.

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e GE Power Systems
Power Systems University
Operational Checks (CHECKS DURING START UP AND INITIAL OPERATION)
Automatic
Permit the gas turbine to operate for a 30 to 60 minute period in a FSNL condition.
Record all data for future comparison and investigation.

Continue monitoring for unusual rubbing noises and shutdown immediately if noise
persists.

Monitor lube oil tank, header and bearing drain temperatures continually during the
heating period. Adjust VTRs if required.

Perform a thorough vibration check. It is suggested that horizontal, vertical and axial data
be recorded for the:
accessory gear (when used) forward and aft sides
all accessible bearing covers on the turbine
turbine forward compressor casing
turbine support legs
reduction gear (when used) forward and aft sides, gear and pinion
bearing covers on the load equipment

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e GE Power Systems
Power Systems University
Operational Checks (CHECKS DURING START UP AND INITIAL OPERATION)
Check and record wheelspace, exhaust and control thermocouples for proper indication
on the HMI.

Check flame detector operation.

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