Methods of testing modern industrial gas turbines

The development of efficient high-temperature gas turbines involves the solution of complex design problems, particularly in connection with cooling requirements. Model tests and theoretical computational studies are not sufficient for an acquisition of the basic data which are needed. Experimental investigations involving an employment of the turbine itself are, therefore, often necessary. Such investigations provide information concerning the operational safety and the reliability of the turbine. Basic data for new developments and the improvement of existing turbine designs are also obtained. A description is presented of measurement techniques for the determination of turbine material temperatures, the amplitudes and resonance frequencies of the compressor blades, rotor and stator vibrations, and the compressor and turbine blade clearances.