Modeling compressor blades gas turbine in a marine environment to determine of the stress and possible damages

In this paper, the static simulation carried out on the blades of the seventh stage of the compressor of a gas turbine installed in an offshore oil platform is reported, the objective of this simulation is to have a means of analysis that confirms and complements the tests visual inspection (boroscopy), as well as non-destructive tests. In specific case of this compressor, the results of boroscopy were available, as well as the scanning electron microscope (SEM), with which it was possible to measure the roughness and evaluate the degradation of the blade surfaces after 30,000 hours of service operating in Cantarell, Mexico, in a very aggressive marine environment conditions, where the entry of solid particles is highly possible. The model of seventh stage’s blade was obtained with a cloud of points. A finite element analysis was carried out with ANSYS software. Results showed wear modes were originated by a severe stinging action. Also, large craters, similar to those observed in solid particle erosion, were developed by at normal impact. The points, where peak stresses were calculated, correspond to those places in which corrosion and some irregular scratches similar to plowing action, was observed. These are the points in which failures take place. Results showed wear modes were originated by a severe stinging action.