Turbine drive train overhauled in just six weeks
August 2019
News
In a recent major overhaul of a 70 MVA turbine generator set, Marthinusen & Coutts took responsibility for the entire drive train refurbishment. Working in collaboration with business unit Actom Turbo Machines, the company completed the work successfully within six weeks for the electrical generation plant at Metalloys’ manganese plant in Meyerton, Gauteng.
According to Mike Chamberlain, Marthinusen & Coutts’ marketing executive, this achievement showcased the capacity of the divisions to take full control of large mechanical and electrical refurbishments. Chamberlain highlights that the customer did not want to split the responsibility for the complete generator and turbine drive train between separate contractors.
“Marthinusen & Coutts and Actom Turbo Machines’ capabilities enable us to control the entire process, offering peace of mind to customers, coupled with optimised cost efficiencies,” says Chamberlain. “This also reduces customers’ risk and managerial effort in dealing with multiple suppliers.”
The scope included a complete inspection of the turbine rotor and internal components, as well as runout and dimensional inspection on the rotor. Inspections incorporated glass bead blasting and non-destructive testing of many components.
High-speed balancing of the 13 tonne rotor was conducted, and turbine rotor journals were repaired. White metal bearings were relined, and the thrust bearing was modified to improve fitment in the bearing casing. Positive material identification tests were conducted on all the studs, nuts and shaft seals. A complete 3D scan was done of the centreline to allow reverse engineering drawings.
At its repair facility in Cleveland, Johannesburg, Marthinusen & Coutts also performed a number of inspections, tests and repairs on the rotor. Dimensional inspections and electrical tests were conducted, as well as non-destructive testing such as the phase array test. Slip rings were ground, the diode wheel was inspected, and the diodes were tested.
For more information contact Marthinusen & Coutts, +27 11 607 1700, [email protected], www.mandc.co.za
Further reading:
Reinstatement opportunity for ECSA registration
News
In 2023 the Engineering Council of South Africa (ECSA) announced a special opportunity for engineers in South Africa to reinstate their registration status if it had been cancelled. This exclusive offer is available until the end of August 2024.
Read more...
The top 10 emerging technologies of 2025
News
The World Economic Forum’s top 10 emerging technologies of 2025 are expected to deliver real-world impact within three to five years and address urgent global challenges.
Read more...
Comtest calibration user group seminar
News
Comtest invites metrology and calibration professionals to a focused technical seminar series aimed at demystifying some of the most common hurdles in inter-laboratory comparisons.
Read more...
Technology leaders shaping 2025
News
In an era where agility, innovation and execution are paramount, ABI Research’s latest report, ‘26 Technology Companies Leading the Way in 2025’ identifies the top players shaping the future across key digital technology segments.
Read more...
Omniflex through the decades
Omniflex Remote Monitoring Specialists
News
As Omniflex celebrates 60 years of engineering excellence, we take a look back at the decade that saw us really kick in and deliver major engineering projects – the 1970s.
Read more...
Innomotics certified for innovative mine winder braking system
News
Innomotics has achieved SIL 3 certification for the COBRA 02 S braking system for mine winder installations, together with OLKO-Maschinentechnik.
Read more...
The true cost of cheap water in South Africa
News
The low cost of water has created a dangerous sense of comfort for South Africans.
Read more...
South Africa’s green hydrogen leap
News
Over the past 12 months, South Africa has solidified its ambitions to become a global green hydrogen leader. Riding on abundant renewable energy resources and strategic partnerships, the country has advanced from early-stage promise to tangible project groundwork. These are the most significant developments from mid-2024 through mid-2025.
Read more...
Rewiring the nation
News
South Africa’s energy sector is undergoing a dramatic transformation. Long defined by its heavy dependence on coal, the country is now making significant progress toward a more diverse and sustainable energy mix.
Read more...
Africa Energy Review
News
The Africa Energy Review 2024 from PwC outlines how the continent’s energy landscape is shifting in response to global trends, local needs and technological innovation.
Read more...
printer friendly version