A Liquid Fuel Skid is a system used to store, supply, and manage the delivery of liquid fuel to a gas turbine engine. Gas turbines are commonly used in power generation, aviation, and industrial applications, and they can run on various types of liquid fuels, such as diesel, kerosene, natural gas condensate, or biofuels. The Liquid Fuel Skid is an essential component of the gas turbine system, ensuring a steady and controlled fuel supply.
Here are some key components and functions of a liquid fuel skid for a gas turbine:
Fuel Storage Tank: The skid typically includes a storage tank where the liquid fuel is stored. The tank's capacity can vary depending on the specific application and the runtime requirements of the gas turbine.
Fuel Transfer Pump: A fuel transfer pump is used to extract the fuel from the storage tank and supply it to the gas turbine. These pumps ensure a consistent flow of fuel to the engine.
Fuel Filtration System: The liquid fuel is often filtered to remove contaminants and impurities that could potentially damage the gas turbine or affect its performance. Filtration is crucial for maintaining the turbine's efficiency and reliability.
Fuel Heating System: In some cases, especially in colder climates, a fuel heating system may be incorporated to maintain the fuel at an appropriate temperature. Cold fuel can affect combustion and turbine performance.
Flow Control and Metering: Flow control valves and meters are used to regulate the amount of fuel being delivered to the gas turbine. This ensures precise control over the turbine's power output.
Safety Systems: Liquid fuel skids are equipped with safety features to prevent fuel leaks, fires, and other hazards. These can include pressure relief valves, emergency shutdown systems, and flame arrestors.
Control and Monitoring: Modern liquid fuel skids often come with advanced control and monitoring systems. These systems allow operators to oversee the fuel supply, temperature, pressure, and other parameters, and make adjustments as needed.
Instrumentation and Alarms: Liquid fuel skids are equipped with various sensors and alarms to provide real-time information about the system's status. This helps operators detect issues and take appropriate actions quickly.
Redundancy: To ensure the reliability of the gas turbine system, many liquid fuel skids incorporate redundancy in critical components. This redundancy can include backup pumps, filtration systems, and control systems.
Liquid fuel skids are designed to meet the specific requirements of the gas turbine they are supplying. The choice of fuel, capacity, and features will depend on factors such as the application, environmental conditions, and operational demands. Proper maintenance and regular inspections are crucial to ensure the safe and efficient operation of the gas turbine system.
