Abstract
Acceptance tests on turbine installations have, in most instances in the past, been undertaken by field tests on the prototype. Greater accuracy, however, is possible by laboratory tests on a model. The cost of model and field tests is examined to show when a model test is an economic proposition. The question of when it is justifiable to have comparative model tests on a number of model turbines from different manufacturers is also discussed.
The realistic level of accuracy attainable leads to reasonable setting of penalty clauses. In many cases penalty clauses have been unrealistic, as the necessary precision on testing, majoration step-up, seal clearance, surface finish, and manufacturing tolerances cannot be achieved. This can result in unnecessary dispute after the tests.
The practical aspects of testing are also covered in the paper, including the need for model installation supervised by the manufacturer, the careful calibration of measuring equipment, and the statistical assessment of results. Finally geometric measurement of the model to ensure homogeneity with the prototype is discussed.
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