Failure analysis of gas turbine transition pieces, leading to a solution for prevention

In this study the failure analysis of transition pieces of a gas turbine is investigated. Transition piece connects combustion chamber to the turbine and acts as a nozzle which leads hot gases to stationary blades of turbine. The problem of this transition piece in this gas turbine, which was common in other similar units, was cracks developing on the lower wall near the connection to the turbine. Study of gas turbine operation history, cracks apparent form microstructure analysis and fracture surface, revealed that the thermal fatigue was the main reason for the failure and also oxidation facilitated the crack propagation. In order to prevent the failure of transition pieces, it was proposed to create a row of holes, at 1 cm above the impaired region for local cooling and stopping probable cracks. Due to the implemented solutions, the failure of transition pieces and their annual repair are prevented.