An upgraded Rolls-Royce industrial gas turbine, which incorporates advanced technologies used in the latest generation of Rolls-Royce aero engines, has achieved more than 100,000h of faultless operation.
The Avon 200 life extension upgrade, which delivers increased power, efficiency and component life, was launched in 2007. 40 engine kits have been ordered by operators in nine countries and 18 of these have now been delivered.
The industrial Avon is one of the most successful industrial aero-derivative gas turbines ever built, accumulating more than 60 million operating hours. It has established an unparalleled record for reliability and availability in the oil and gas and power generation industries.
Total orders exceed 1,200 units, with more than 800 still in service worldwide. Avon 200 upgrades are suitable for Avon 1533, 1534 and 1535 models.
The Avon 200 can deliver 8.9% more power and 4.4% better thermal efficiency. It provides extended mean times between overhauls (from 30,000h to 36,000h) if operated at the current base rating. In addition, improved mechanical design helps to reduce life-cycle costs. When operating at the enhanced or current base rating, significant reductions in CO and CO2 emissions can also be expected.
Robert Wallace, sales and marketing director of the energy customer service business, said: “The newly upgraded Avon 200 is a significant new addition to our portfolio. It delivers value for Avon operators worldwide by setting new standards for power, efficiency, life cycle costs and environmental impact.
“Avon operators want their gas turbines to operate for longer periods before major maintenance is required and they also want to mitigate the effects of high cycle fatigue brought on by fuel quality issues. The Avon 200 delivers this and more.”
Petrobras were first to order an Avon 200 upgrade, for one of their engines in service on the P18 platform offshore Brazil. In addition, half of the current Dubai Petroleum Avon fleet operating on offshore gas platforms in the Gulf will be upgraded.
Before entry into commercial service, a demonstrator Avon 200 performed a closely monitored endurance run at the Clarkson Valley natural gas compressor station on TransCanada Corporation’s Alberta, Canada System pipeline.
The same development engine also underwent hot weather trials in Dubai prior to the order from Dubai Petroleum.