Gas turbines – powered by LPG
The search for a reliable method of pumping liquid-phase LPG at 30 bar for use as a fuel in gas turbines, has led European Gas Turbines (EGT) to purchase seven Sterling SIHI dual-pump packages for export with their turbines to Turkey and other Middle Eastern countries.
Until now, LPG for use in gas turbines, has usually been pumped at 90 bar, which is a pressure where it can easily change phase between liquid and gas. One result of LPG’s volatility is that conventional gas turbines have only been able to operate at full or zero load (i.e. either on or off).
The new EGT turbine control systems have been designed to ensure that, by pumping at 30 bar with careful temperature control, LPG can be delivered to the turbines as 100% liquid. This is a key factor in enabling the turbines to achieve their unique design capability of operating across the full load range from zero to 100 %, thereby allowing them to shed load when required.
In order to achieve the best technical and commercial solution, Sterling have supplied pumpsets comprising a multi-stage AEHA side-channel pump and a multi-stage CEHA combination pump. These work in series and are driven by a single motor with a straight through shaft. The units were supplied complete with non-return valves and associated piping, all mounted on a common baseplate.
European Gas Turbines stated that they had specified Sterling because they have 30-years experience in the successful handling of LPG in numerous applications, although this is the first time that they have been used to serve these uniquely designed gas turbines.
Other pump manufacturers had been considered, however, Sterling’s reputation for reliability and controllability ensured they were awarded the contract.
About Sterling Fluid Systems
Sterling Fluid Systems is a global engineering group operating in the field of fluid and gas handling.
It's five specialised business groups include, Liquid Pumps, Vacuum Process Pumps, Filling & Testing Systems, Water Treatment Systems and Engineered Valves.
Focused on market requirements,these businesses serve industry by delivering engineered solutions. Sterling Fluid Systems has a group turnover in excess of $450 million with more than 2800 employees designing, manufacturing, marketing and developing new systems and processes.
The organisation benefits from it's affiliation with it's parent company Thyssen Bornermisza Group (TBG) which has annual sales of more than US$ 2 billion.
The Sterling Fluid Systems Group has more than 50 fully owned operations around the world established in Europe, The Middle East, North and South America, Africa and Asia. An additional network of distributors and agents ensures the support of business at a "local level".
