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Patented multi-link Inlet Guide Vanes (IGVs)
for precise control and smooth adjustment.
High-efficiency aerodynamics
customized to customer specifications.
The expander wheels are
mounted directly on the
high-speed pinions, and
the generator is coupled
to the low-speed gear.
Hydraulic, pneumatic or electric
actuators control the IGVs and
provide precise control from 0 to
130% of design flow.
If the monitored pressures of two opposed
thrust bearings are imbalanced, the controller
automatically adjusts pressure behind the
expander wheel to keep the rotor centered
at all times.
High pressure ratios or high
flow rates require multistage
arrangement. GE expanders can
accommodate up to four stages
on a common integral gearbox.
Dynamic dry gas seals can be applied in single, double or
tandem configurations to minimize buffer gas leakage.
GE’s Turboexpander-generator capabilities
Pressure
up to 3,000 psia (200 BarA)
Temperature
-450ºF to 925ºF (-270ºC to 500ºC*)
Expansion ratio
up to 14 per stage
Process fluid
All pure or mixed fluids including
natural gas, petrochemical products,
hydrogen, air, steam, etc.
Liquid
up to 30% of weight at discharge
* Movable IGVs available up to 300ºC
Drive and speed options
GE also offers turboexpanders with direct drive or external
gearboxes as required, with a common oil supply system for the
complete package. The installed fleet ranges from 50 to 15,000
kW. When feasible, the direct-drive option eliminates the need for
speed reduction, gearboxes and associated equipment.
Expander-Generator Frame Size Distribution
Frame
Shaft power Expander outlet flow max. Available casing ratings
(kW) (m
3
/h) 150 300 600 900 1500
20 1,600 4,000
25 2,000 5,500
30 4,800 9,000
40 6,500 16,000
50 10,000 25,000
60 15,000 36,000
80 20,000 45,000
100 25,000 70,000
130 30,000 100,000
160 40,000 150,000
180 45,000 200,000
GE imagination at work
Turboexpander-generators
With design features to increase performance and reduce
maintenance downtime in extreme natural gas applications
GE Oil & Gas