Design Philosophy
GE's Frame 60 expander is designed to run continuously, year after year, in extreme conditions with the primary objective of reliability and ease of operation. Wheels are milled to computer-generated profiles, customized for performance and efficiency, dynamically balanced, and overspeed tested for integrity.
Applications
Recovering energy from process pressure drops makes economic sense. GE's Frame 60 radial expander can meet the largest application needs with inlet flanges up to 84 inches, bearing diameters up to 10 inches, and continuous run speeds up to 16,500 RPM. Waste heat, pressure let down, and hydrocarbon compression are only a few of the many applications we have extensive experience in. Multiple expanders are used for applications in excess of 15MW.
Testing Capabilities
Our modern test facilities are instrumented with real time data acquisition systems and are capable of testing in accordance with ASME PTC10 Class I, II, or III. GE can perform full load/speed tests with virtually any gas mixture along with performance mapping.
Performance & Product Characteristics
The Frame 60 is custom designed for peak performance
at a specified design condition. In addition, a unique
patented Inlet Guide Vane (IGV) controls the turboexpander
gas flow in order to maintain high efficiency over a
wide range of operating conditions. The wheels can withstand
any amount of liquid formation. Oil or Active Magnetic
Bearings are available.
Expander-generators can be configured with direct-drive,
external gearbox, or internal gearbox. Multi-stage arrangements
can accommodate up to 4 expanders on a common gearbox.
GE can provide expander and compressor housings capable
of pressures up to 200 bar absolute (3000 psia).
