Page 437 - Practical Machinery Management for Process Plants Major Process Equipment Maintenance and Repair

Steam Turbines and Turboexpanders 415

Figure 8-21. Expander-compressor.

The turboexpander is usually mounted on a single rigid steel baseplate
with support systems for simplicity of installation, requiring only con-
nections to the plant process, seal gas supply, cooling water, and power
supply lines.
Proper checkout at installation and regular routine maintenance of the
system will ensure years of trouble-free operation with a minimum of
downtime.

Pre-Checkout
A simple “Three-Step” precheck of the system provides an adequate
inspection of all components:
First, disassemble, inspect, and clean the rotating parts of the machine
which are incorporated in the “mechanical center section” (Figure 8-22)
to ensure that the unit is totally free of dirt and moisture, and that all
critical parts are free of damage. After reassembly, provide adequate
protection to prevent recontamination prior to reinstallation on the skid.