Deposits on turbine blades lead to deterioration in efficiency and loss in performance of the power plant. A range of causes can be responsible for the formation of deposits. Depending on the composition, deposits form on the high-pressure, intermediate-pressure and/or low-pressure steam turbine.
In a gas turbine, deposits also have a similar, if not greater, effect on the compressor blades. These are caused by impurities that enter the compressor with the intake air. The water that is injected for cooling or to increase performance (fogging / high fogging) can also lead to the formation of deposits in the compressor or turbine if it is not clean enough.
Such deposits can be removed in various ways. The most common methods are mechanical removal by blasting, water wash, wet steam washing and foam cleaning. Almost unknown in Europe, foam cleaning has been successfully applied in power plants in the United States for over 40 years.
This article compares the different methods for scale removal with their advantages and disadvantages. As quite "new" in Europe, the foam cleaning method is described in more detail, including examples.
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