The consultants at Exponent perform engineering analyses of boiler and turbine systems for the power generation industry. Our multi-disciplinary engineering team has experience with the equipment, processes, and controls associated with combustion turbines, steam turbines, and power boilers. We consult on issues related to radiant and convective heat transfer; multiphase fluid flow; solid, liquid, and gaseous fuel combustion; pollutant formation and abatement; material suitability; and control system failures.
Exponent engineers are principal members of the NFPA 85 (Boilers & Combustion Systems) technical committee of the National Fire Protection Association, and the C-16 (Thermal Insulation) and F-03 (Gaskets) technical committees of the American Society of Testing and Materials (ASTM).
Turbines
Exponent has investigated many steam and combustion turbine failures. Our expertise in the interaction between high-temperature fluids and rotating machinery is recognized internationally. Specifically, our thermal and fluid experts perform acoustic, fluid dynamic, and vibrations analyses. We are familiar with turbine control systems and their limitations under operational upset conditions. We have consulted on the consequences of fuel changes in combustion turbines.
Boilers
Exponent has consulted on all aspects of boiler design and operation and for all sizes and styles of boilers. Often we are called upon to investigate breaches in pressurized water or heat-transfer fluid vessels and piping, fuel explosions, structural failures, water chemistry and corrosion, and burner safeguards. We have performed third-party reviews of the configuration of combustion instrumentation and controls, and their adherence to relevant fire protection standards.
Air Pollution Control
Exponent engineers have analyzed issues related to rapid performance degradation of SCR catalyst systems for NOx control. We have developed methods for estimating release rates of particulate matter from fabric filter baghouses with one or more failed bags. Our experts have consulted on carbon burnout issues in coal flyash, and rates of mercury volatilization (and downstream particulate recapture) in coal combustion.
Materials
We have addressed problems associated with refractory degradation and premature thermal insulation failure. We consult on steam blowouts from failed gaskets, and we interact with metallurgists in our Materials practice to assist with fluid or thermal issues that can create conditions for boiler tube or turbine blade failures. Our experts have testified on the historical use of asbestos insulation and gaskets in power generation, including the chronology of suitable alternatives becoming available.