Improving gas turbine power plant safety: the application of computational fluid dynamics to gas leaks

Abstract Gas-fired power stations have recently come under the scrutiny of the UK Health and Safety Executive who have raised concerns over potential explosion risks. The gas turbines are usually housed within acoustic enclosures to protect the turbine and to reduce environmental noise. However, in the event of a gas leak, such enclosures may promote a build-up of gas and thus give rise to an explosion risk. This paper describes how General Electric, working with W. S. Atkins, have responded to these concerns. Examples are given of how computational fluid dynamics simulations and field measurements have been used to study the effectiveness of gas turbine compartment ventilation and gas detection systems. Developments of the modelling techniques to allow additional safety and operational efficiency issues to be considered are also described.