Computerized method for positioning support jacks underneath industrial gas turbines

A computer model of a gas turbine is analyzed using finite element analyses to determine the height of support jacks underneath the casing of the gas turbine. The computer model defines the gas turbine casing as an array of data points. Each data point includes information regarding the spatial location of the point and the mass (or weight) of the gas turbine with respect to that point. By applying finite element analysis, the load due to gravity and resulting deformation at each point on the gas turbine can be predicted. Jacks supporting the gas turbine are also simulated in the model to compensate for the casing deformation due to gravity. Results using the proposed iterative algorithm indicate the correct jack heights to minimize casing distortion.