Computer Aided Design Tool for GT Ventilation System Ductworks

The proper design of a ventilation system (VS) is an important requirement in the Gas Turbine (GT) and energy production industry in general. In fact, ventilation systems are designed to provide a continuous source of cooling air so as to: remove heat and maintain the air temperature in the compartment below the operating limit; prevent the accumulation of hazardous gases; preserve a constant and uniform airflow through the ducts, independently from the environmental conditions; avoid accidental dust and sand contamination in gas turbines, especially when these are located in regions prone to sandstorm conditions. When compared to typical Heating, Ventilating and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems, the design of VSs results particularly challenging since many requirements, generally involving different engineering aspects such as fluid-dynamic, acoustic and structural, have to be fulfilled. Generally speaking, a VS is composed by a number of elements such as linear ducts, expansion joints, transition duct sections, elbows, outlets to the atmosphere, supports, saddles and brackets. Shape and dimensions of these elements may significantly vary depending on the kind of application. Basically, the elements may have circular/oval or rectangular/square section. In the first case, they are manufactured by employing calendaring process followed by welding. Otherwise, the component is realized by cutting and welding metal sheets. Elements are coupled by using bolted flanges or welded joints in order to obtain the entire VS ductwork.