Borescope services are vital for gas turbines. Gas turbines present a unique challenge compared to steam turbines. The temperature that a gas turbine works at is twice as high as what a steam turbine operates at. It is vital that borescope inspection services are done regularly to ensure that the gas turbine is fully operational.
Of course it is not enough to just have a borescope inspection done, it must be conducted by and independent provider to ensure that the borescope inspection report is not biased. Borescope services performed by an independent technician will ensure that the turbine is highly operational and safe for everyone to be around.
Understanding the Inspection Process
A borescope is a type of tool that gives the technician the capabilities to see inside the turbine which would not be possible any other way. This tool allows the technician to check on the internal parts of the turbine to ensure every part is functional and there are no signs of stress or wear and tear.
Borescopes are flexible and rigid; they contain lighting a fiber optic camera and an eye piece. They are highly technical and require training to use effectively. The technician feeds the scope through the turbine and collects images of the inner parts.
Best Practices for Borescope Inspection of Gas Turbine
It is important to schedule routine inspections to ensure the safety of your equipment. Best practices include having inspections done at regular intervals and for:
- Baseline inspections
- Semi-annual inspections
- Regular maintenance activities
- Prior commissioning
- After an overhaul
Having an independent inspection should be done regularly specifically during pre-commission, regular maintenance, during planned outages and of course when a problem is suspected.
The Report
The right independent inspection team will prepare an in-depth report that will divulge the quality of the internal components of the turbine, note any issues or concerns and deliver a clean bill of health if there are no issues discovered.
This valuable documentation can meet compliance requirements and help to establish a paper trail for all your gas turbines. It is also a prescription for necessary maintenance and repair work. A borescope inspection report delivers the information you need to ensure that your plant is fully operational and safe.
