Seismic-Induced Impeller/Blade Rubs in Rotating Power Plant Components

Abstract

During seismic or blade/impeller loss events, the potential for rubs in rotating nuclear and fossil fuel power plant components is quite high. Generally, such events involve interactions between blade/impeller tips and machinery components. This also includes the possibility of seal casing rubs. The paper will develop methodologies to: (i) evaluate the blade impeller-casing rub event; (ii) establish the associated stress, strain and force fields; (iii) enable signature analysis defining blade/impeller/seal particpation; and (iv) establish procedure enabling evaluation of blade/impeller/seal fatigue life. Additionally, the paper will present benchmarking examples of prototypical power plant components, i.e., feedwater pumps and steam turbines.