Industrial Applications Of Aircraft-Derivative Gas Turbines

Abstract

The aircraft-derivative gas turbine as a stationary ground-based prime mover has achieved a spectacular record in its short history of 13 years. During October 1960, in a remote Kentucky gas compressor station located on Possum Trot Ridge, Columbia Gulf Transmission Company commenced operation of the prototype unit for base load industrial duty. The 10,500 BHP gas turbine package, made up of a Pratt and Whitney Aircraft modified J-57 plus a Cooper-Bessemer RT48 free power turbine, was utilized to drive a centrifugal pipeline booster to compress 10 tons of natural !Jas per minute from 750 PSIG to 950 PSIG through a 24-inch diameter pipeline. At that time, the prototype program was primarily intended to demonstrate that an aircraft-derivative gas turbine could operate a period of 8000 hours without requiring major maintenance. Aircraft J-57 engines were operating 1400 hours between overhauls and only a field prototype experience could prove the integrity of seals, bearings, and auxiliary components. It was a high risk adventure and perhaps the first major attempt to translate aircraft technology to industrial uses. It is interesting to reflect that no comparable attempt was made to translate aircraft reciprocating technology to industrial applications in the years prior to the advent of the aircraft jet engine.