Mitsubishi Hitachi Power Systems (MHPS) has successfully completed rotational vibration testing of 74 in (1880 mm) last stage blades, marking the end of the development process. They are the world’s longest LSBs for nuclear steam turbines, complementing the 54 in LSB (1 375mm) already offered by MHPS.
MHPS had previously completed other verification tests, including steam loading.
The rotational vibration test used a full-scale test rotor fitted with 74 in LSBs and operated at nominal rotational speed. Testing was performed at MHPS’s high speed balance testing facility, one of the largest facilities of its kind, MHPS says.
Steam turbines using the 74 in LSB can be employed in 1200 MW class nuclear power plants, as well as larger nuclear plants, exceeding 1500 MW. The longer blade increases power generation and, depending on site conditions, can also permit a reduction in the number of LP turbine casings, from three (54 in LSB) to two, saving space and simplifying plant design.
