How is the cleaning of a gas turbine typically accomplished?

Cleaning a gas turbine is often accomplished while the unit is running under load to minimize downtime and maintain operational efficiency. This process typically involves the injection of cleaning agents directly into the air intake of the turbine. By introducing cleaners during operation, the high-speed airflow through the turbine ensures that the cleaning agents are evenly distributed and effectively reach all internal surfaces, helping to dislodge and remove fouling and deposits that can accumulate over time on components like compressor blades.

This method not only enables continuous operation of the gas turbine, reducing costs associated with taking the unit offline, but also ensures that cleaning occurs under the actual conditions in which the turbine operates. Cleaning during operation can result in more effective removal of dirt and buildup, as the dynamic conditions of the turbine can enhance the action of the cleaning agents.

On the other hand, taking the unit offline is often less desirable due to the associated downtime, which can lead to lost production and increased operational costs. Additionally, washing each section individually may not be practical and could leave some areas insufficiently cleaned. Shutting down the rotor is also not a recommended method for cleaning, as it interrupts operations without providing the benefits of cleaning under load.