High-Speed Balancing for Gas Turbine & Generator Rotors

High-Speed Balancing for Gas Turbine & Generator Rotors

The performance of large rotating machinery depends heavily on precision balancing. While traditional low-speed methods can detect basic irregularities, they often fail to reveal critical imbalances that only appear at full operating speeds. Such hidden faults can lead to severe vibration, accelerated wear, or even unexpected shutdowns—events that can cost utilities millions in lost power generation.

Our advanced balancing facility provides true high-speed testing under simulated operating conditions. By running rotors at service-level speeds, we are able to identify and eliminate vibration sources before the equipment is returned to the field. This approach not only protects against catastrophic failure but also enhances reliability, lowers maintenance costs, and extends component service life.

Facility Capabilities

• Rotor lengths up to 49 feet and weights up to 180,000 lbs

• Operating speeds up to 4,320 RPM for large assemblies and 12,000 RPM for smaller rotors

• Equipped with an 11,000 HP drive system and Schenck DH90 & DH-7 pedestals

• Maximum rotor diameter of 13 feet, with a weight range from 1,300 lbs to 180,000 lbs

• Full High-Speed Thermal Testing (HSTT) for generator rotors, including electrical checks at speed

Testing & Monitoring Systems
Rotors are balanced inside a high-tech vacuum chamber, minimizing aerodynamic interference and replicating real-world conditions. A modern control center allows engineers to remotely operate and monitor the entire process, while four HD cameras provide live visualization of rotor behavior. During testing, our specialists perform advanced diagnostics such as:

• Flux probe analysis

• Thermal “heat run” evaluations

• Online megger testing

• AC impedance checks

Proven Results
High-speed balancing has consistently shown to reduce stress during post-repair operation, safeguard against vibration-related failures, and restore machinery to peak operating condition. With decades of expertise and state-of-the-art equipment, our balancing services deliver confidence and reliability for power producers worldwide.