g

GEK 116281
November 2008

GE Energy

Gas Fuel System

9FA DLN 2.6+

These instructions do not purport to cover all details or variations in equipment nor to provide for every possible contingency to
be met in connection with installation, operation or maintenance. Should further information be desired or should particular
problems arise which are not covered sufficiently for the purchaser's purposes the matter should be referred to the GE Company.
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GEK 116281

Gas Fuel System

The below will be found throughout this publication. It is important that the significance of
each is thoroughly understood by those using this document. The definitions are as follows:
NOTE
Highlights an essential element of a procedure to assure correctness.
CAUTION
Indicates a potentially hazardous situation, which, if not avoided, could result in minor
or moderate injury or equipment damage.

WARNING
INDICATES A POTENTIALLY HAZARDOUS SITUATION, WHICH, IF
NOT AVOIDED, COULD RESULT IN DEATH OR SERIOUS INJURY

***DANGER***
INDICATES AN IMMINENTLY HAZARDOUS SITUATION,
WHICH, IF NOT AVOIDED WILL RESULT IN DEATH OR
SERIOUS INJURY.

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Gas Fuel System

GEK 116281

TABLE OF CONTENTS
I.
II.

III.

IV.

V.

GENERAL .................................................................................................................................................. 5
EQUIPMENT ............................................................................................................................................. 5
A. Gas Flow Measurement (Coriolis Meter-96FM-4/MG2-4) ................................................................... 5
B. Safety Shut off System........................................................................................................................... 5
C. Gas Strainer............................................................................................................................................ 5
D. Gas Fuel Auxiliary Stop Valve (VS4-1) ................................................................................................ 6
E. Stop/Speed Ratio Valve (VSR-1) .......................................................................................................... 6
F. Gas Fuel Control Valves (VGC-1, VGC-2, VGC-3, VGC-4) ............................................................... 7
G. Gas Fuel Vent Valve (VA13-15) ........................................................................................................... 7
H. Thermocouples (FTG - 1A, 1B & FTG-2A, 2B) ................................................................................... 7
I. Pressure Gauges ..................................................................................................................................... 8
J. Pressure Transducers (96FG-1A, 1B, 1C) ............................................................................................. 8
K. Calibration of Fuel Gas Pressure Transducers, 96FG-2A, 2B, 2C ........................................................ 8
L. Gas Purge Pressure Ratio Monitoring (96GN-1, 96GN-2, 96GN-3, 96GN-4)...................................... 8
OPERATION.............................................................................................................................................. 8
A. General................................................................................................................................................... 8
B. Pre-start Conditions ............................................................................................................................. 11
C. Startup & Loading Operation............................................................................................................... 11
CONTROL................................................................................................................................................ 14
A. P2 Pressure Control.............................................................................................................................. 14
B. Gas Flow and Split Control.................................................................................................................. 17
C. Gas Fuel Temperature Compensation.................................................................................................. 19
D. Gas Purge Control................................................................................................................................ 19
PROTECTION ......................................................................................................................................... 20
A. P2 Pressure Control Protection and SRV Position Control Protection ................................................ 20
B. Independent Flow Path Purge Protection............................................................................................. 21

LIST OF FIGURES
Figure 1. DLN2.6+ Fuel Nozzle Arrangement....................................................................................................... 9
Figure 2. Startup and Shutdown Mode Sequence ................................................................................................ 10
Figure 3. Gas Fuel Leak Test Function Block Diagram....................................................................................... 13
Figure 4. SRV P2 Pressure Control Algorithm Diagram ..................................................................................... 15
Figure 5. SRV Stop/Speed Ratio Valve Control Schematic................................................................................. 16
Figure 6. GCV Control Algorithm Diagram ........................................................................................................ 17
Figure 7. GCV Control Schematic ....................................................................................................................... 18

LIST OF TABLES
Table 1. DLN Mode Staging Diagram ................................................................................................................. 10
Table 2. Protective levels and actions for the Gas Fuel System Gas Pressure .................................................. 20
Table 3. Independent Flow Path Purge Protection ............................................................................................... 21

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GEK 116281

Gas Fuel System

APPENDIX
Figure A1. Simplified Gas Fuel System Schematic .......................................................................................... 22
Figure A2. Simplified Gas Fuel Purge System Schematic................................................................................ 23

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Gas Fuel System

GEK 116281

I. GENERAL
The Gas Fuel Systems function is to provide accurate and repeatable gas fuel flow, and flow split control
for a multi-stream fuel injection system DLN 2.6+. It also provides safe and reliable isolation from the
gas fuel source. The DLN 2.6+e control hardware and the control system are described in this document.
See Appendix 1. Simplified Schematic of the Gas Fuel System and Gas Purge System.
II. EQUIPMENT
The Gas Fuel System consists of a gas flow meter, fuel gas compartment of the accessory module/fuel
gas module and the gas turbine on-base equipment. The fuel gas compartment of the accessory module/
fuel gas module houses both the gas fuel system and gas fuel purge system. A brief description of the
systems overall major components is given below. See Gas Fuel System Articles for further details.
A. Gas Flow Measurement (Coriolis Meter-96FM-4/MG2-4)
Coriolis flow meters measure mass flow by taking advantage of the Coriolis Effect; the inertial
effects that arise as a fluid flows through a tube are directly proportional to the mass flow of the fluid.
In a Coriolis flow meter, vibration is induced in the process-fluid-filled flow tube(s), then the mass
flow rate is captured by measuring the difference in the phase of vibration between one end of the
flow tube and the other.
B. Safety Shut off System
The Safety Shut off System is comprised of two separate valves, a Stop Valve (VS4-4) and a Vent
Valve (VA13-18). These valves are located outdoors, upstream of the Fuel Gas
Compartment/Module (FG1). They stop and vent (to atmosphere) the fuel gas to the GT in the event
of Fire Detection, Hazardous Gas Detection, and E Stop activation. Each valve is pneumatically
actuated via a 3-way solenoid valve, 20VS4-4 Stop Valve and 20VG-8 Vent valve. Each valve has
limit switches to indicate open and closed position; 33VS4-4 / 33VS4-5 Stop Valve and 33VG-8 /
33VG-9 Vent Valve.
C. Gas Strainer
A strainer is provided in the fuel gas supply line upstream of the stop/speed ratio valve. The gas
strainer is a last chance strainer. The purpose of the strainer is to stop foreign objects or materials that
may prevent the gas turbine from operating/shutting down safely. The strainer is not designed for
continual fuel gas clean up. The strainer utilizes a differential pressure transducer 96FGD-1 or switch
63FGD-1 along with a differential pressure gauge installed across the strainer to monitor blockage.
The pressure transducer or switch initiates an alarm to the turbine control panel if the gas differential
pressure increases beyond a specified setting. During operation, the strainer differential pressure
should be closely monitored. If an alarm is registered, the strainer should be inspected and if required
cleaned. All strainer contamination shall be considered abnormal and the source of contamination
shall be verified. All strainer maintenance shall be performed in accordance with the manufacturers
recommendations. Each strainer is equipped with a lockable vent valve that vents to FG2, see MLI
0422 for additional information on location of strainer vent valve and instructions for venting the fuel
gas to a safe area.
Prior to strainer maintenance, the upstream and downstream pressure shall be zero. To determine the
downstream pressure, utilize the pressure gauge FG-1 and pressure transducers 96FG-1A, -1B & -1C.
The upstream pressure can be verified by using the differential pressure gauge FG-3 and differential
pressure transmitter 96FGD-1 or switch 63FGD-1. When using the differential pressure
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GEK 116281

Gas Fuel System

gauge/transmitter/switch to determine that the upstream pressure is zero, the downstream pressure
shall be zero; the sensing lines to the differential devices shall be open; and the pressure equalizer
valve shall be closed.
The fuel gas strainer may be one of the following types Y Strainer, Duplex Strainer, or Multi Element
Strainer. All three designs utilize a metal mesh filtration element.
1. Y Type Strainer
The Y Type Strainer is basket type strainer; it is designed as a single unit with one strainer
basket.
2. Duplex Strainer
The duplex strainer is a basket type strainer; it is designed as a single unit with two separate
baskets and a flow transfer valve. The transfer valve is designed to allow fuel gas to flow
through only one basket at a time. If a high differential pressure is observed, the transfer valve
allows for the transfer to a clean basket.
3. Multi-Element Strainer
The Multi-Element Strainer is designed as a single unit with multiple elements arranged in
parallel to the fuel gas flow path, each element is fed with fuel gas simultaneously. In order to
perform maintenance on the Multi-Element strainer, the unit must be removed from the fuel gas
piping. Therefore it may be necessary to place temporary pipe supports in the fuel gas pipe
spools upstream and downstream of the unit.
D. Gas Fuel Auxiliary Stop Valve (VS4-1)
The Auxiliary Stop Valve is an ANSI Class VI butterfly type control valve. This valve is
pneumatically actuated with a spring close actuator design for fail-safe operation. When the system is
pressurized or not tripped, the solenoid operated pilot valve (20VS4-1) directs instrument air to the
actuator of the aux. stop valve. The valve actuator acts against the valve spring causing the valve to
open. During a trip event, the solenoid valve 20VS4-1 is de-energized which vents the pressurized air
in the actuator to atmosphere. The compressed spring causes the valve to close. This valve acts as a
backup stop valve for the Stop/Speed Ratio Valve. This valve opens during the gas turbine ignition
sequence when the turbine is started.
E. Stop/Speed Ratio Valve (VSR-1)
The Stop/Speed Ratio Valve serves two functions. First it operates as the primary stop valve, making
it an integral part of the protection system. The SRV is tripped closed by the hydraulic trip system via
the directional trip relay VH5-1. This valve is hydraulically actuated with a spring close actuator for
fail safe operation. An emergency trip or flame out on a normal shutdown will trip the valve to its
closed position, isolating gas fuel to the turbine. Closing the SRV can be achieved in two ways:
dumping the hydraulic trip oil to the SRV or driving the SRV closed electrically using the servo
valve 90SR-1 with the control systems SRV position control loop. The SRV also functions as a
pressure-regulating valve. The control system uses the SRV to regulate the pressure (P2) upstream of
the GCVs. This function is described in further detail in Section IV Control.

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Gas Fuel System

GEK 116281

F. Gas Fuel Control Valves (VGC-1, VGC-2, VGC-3, VGC-4)

There are four independent gas control valves in the DLN2.6+ system. The gas control valves
(GCVs) are actuated by hydraulic cylinders with a spring close actuator for fail safe operation. The
actuator design is single acting. The plugs in the GCVs are contoured to provide a proportional flow
area in relation to valve stroke. The GCVs use a skirted valve disc and venturi seat to obtain high
pressure recovery.
This high pressure recovery design achieves critical pressure operation at substantially lower valve
pressure ratios. The result is that the flow through the GCVs is independent of the pressure drop
across the valves and is a function of valve inlet pressure (P2) and valve area only. The valves are
positioned by the control system to maintain a percentage of the total fuel to each of the fuel
passages. This fuel split is a function of DLN operating mode, and the combustion reference
temperature.
Gas Purge Block Valves (VA13-1, VA13-2, VA13-3, VA13-4, VA13-20, VA13-21, VA13-23,
VA13-24).
The gas purge block valves are a V-notch type ball valve. These valves are arranged in a double
block and bleed configuration. The actuator design for each valve is a pneumatically operated rackand-pinion, with a fail close spring. The valves are driven open and closed using a pneumatically
operated pilot valve (VA36-1, VA36-2, VA36-3, VA36-4, VA36-20, VA36-21, VA36-23, VA3624). These valves provide for rapid exhaust of instrument air from the actuators of the VA13 valves.
The VA36 valves are driven by a solenoid operated pilot valve (20PG-1, 20PG-2, 20PG-3, 20PG-4,
20PG-20, 20PG-21, 20PG-23, 20PG-24) for actuation. A needle-metering valve is provided on the
inlet pressure side of the pilot valves (20PG) to control the opening rate of each VA13 valve, except
for VA13-2. This valve VA13-2, is equipped with an I/P (Current to Pneumatic) controller, used to
provide for a variable slew rate and positioning. The opening rate of the purge valves must be slow in
order to minimize transients. Excessive megawatt and temperature transients are caused by too rapid
purging of gas fuel from the fuel manifolds into the combustion system. The purge system is
designed to minimize this effect. Each valve has two limit switches that indicate open and closed
valve position and are used for monitoring, protection and diagnostics in the Gas Turbine control
system.
G. Gas Fuel Vent Valve (VA13-15)
This solenoid operated valve vents the volume between the stop/speed ratio valve and the gas control
valves when the solenoid (20VG-1) is de-energized. The solenoid is energized and the vent valve
closed when the master control protection circuit is energized and the turbine is above the cooldown
slow roll speed. It will be closed and remain closed during gas fuel operation. The vent is open, when
the turbine is shut down because the stop/speed ratio valve and gas control valves have metal plugs
and metal seats and therefore, are not leak tight. The vent insures that during the shutdown period,
fuel gas pressure will not build up between the stop/speed ratio valve and gas control valves, and that
no fuel gas will leak past the closed gas control valves to collect in the combustors or exhaust.
If the vent valve fails during normal operation, the SRV will continue to maintain constant pressure,
P2. This is accomplished by opening further, making up any lost flow through the vent valve.
H. Thermocouples (FTG - 1A, 1B & FTG-2A, 2B)
Upstream of Stop/Speed Ratio Valve (SRV) are two Dual element thermocouples FTG-1A/1B, FTG2A/2B which sense the temperature and send an electrical signal back to the controller.
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GEK 116281

Gas Fuel System

I. Pressure Gauges
One differential pressure gauge (PDI-FG-3) measures the pressure differential between the inlet and
outlet of the gas strainer. Three pressure gauges with hand valves are installed in the fuel gas supply
line. The upstream pressure gauge (PI-FG-1) measures the pressure of the gas entering the stop/speed
ratio valve; the intermediate pressure gauge (PI-FG-2) measures P2 pressure ahead of the gas control
valves; and the downstream gauges (PI-D5, PI-PM1, PI-PM2, PI-PM3) measure the pressure of the
gas leaving the gas control valves.
J. Pressure Transducers (96FG-1A, 1B, 1C)
Three pressure transducers are installed in the fuel gas piping upstream of the Stop/Speed ratio valve
and are used to initiate an alarm when the fuel pressure becomes too high or low.
K. Calibration of Fuel Gas Pressure Transducers, 96FG-2A, 2B, 2C
The fuel gas pressure transducer, 96FG, is a pressure transducer with a dc voltage output directly
proportional to pressure input in psig. It incorporates solid state circuits and an amplifier in the
transducer case. A diode is connected across the output of the transducer. This prevents any
possibility of a spurious signal driving the transducer amplifier negative, out of its normal operating
range. The transducer is normally factory adjusted and calibrated; however, the calibration must be
verified in the field and if necessary returned to the orginal manufacture for recalibration.
L. Gas Purge Pressure Ratio Monitoring (96GN-1, 96GN-2, 96GN-3, 96GN-4)
When a gas passage is being purged, a minimum gas purge pressure ratio must be maintained to
ensure positive airflow across all the fuel nozzles. This pressure ratio is sufficient to overcome any
combustion can-to-can pressure variation. The differential pressure transmitters measure the gas
manifold pressure relative to compressor discharge pressure. These pressures are used for monitoring
and alarm in the control system.
III. OPERATION
A. General
Gas fuel flow is controlled with the gas fuel Auxiliary Stop Valve, Stop/Speed Ratio Valve, D5
(Diffusion), PM1, PM2, and PM3 Gas Control Valves. The Stop/Speed Ratio Valve (SRV) and the
Gas Control Valves (GCVs) work in conjunction to regulate the total fuel flow delivered to the gas
turbine. The GCVs control the desired fuel flow in response to a control system fuel command, fuel
Stroke Reference (FSR). The response of the fuel flow to GCV position command is made linear by
maintaining a predetermined pressure upstream of the GCVs. The GCVs upstream P2 pressure is
controlled by modulating the SRV as a function of turbine percent speed (TNH), and feedback FPG2
from the P2 pressure transducers (96FG-2A, -2B, -2C).
The 2.6+ Dry Low Nox Combustion System has four fuel passage manifolds (D5, PM1, PM2, &
PM3). All four of these passages (D5, PM1, PM2, and PM3) are independent fuel passages each
having an individual gas control valve (GCV) for controlling gas fuel delivery. Each combustion
chamber has six DLN2.6+ fuel nozzles arranged in a circular configuration with one in the middle.
The D5 gas fuel delivery system consists of five diffusion type fuel nozzles for each combustion
chamber. The PM2 and PM3 gas fuel delivery systems consist of five fuel nozzles for each
combustion chamber. The PM1 gas fuel delivery system consists of one fuel nozzle for each
combustion chamber. See figure 1 for the DLN2.6+ Nozzle Arrangement.

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Gas Fuel System

GEK 116281

Each fuel passage requires a certain percentage of the total fuel. The percentage of fuel to each
passage is a function of Combustion Reference Temperature (TTRF), and DLN operating mode.
The start up mode of operation is D or Diffusion. There are four steady state DLN modes of
operation: 1D, 3, 6.2, & 6.3. There is also a transient load rejection mode (mode 1) where all the fuel
is diverted to the premix nozzles PM1 and PM2. The steady state DLN operating modes are a
function of Combustion Reference Temperature. See Table 1 DLN Mode Staging Diagram. See
Figure 2 Startup and Shutdown Sequences.

Figure 1. DLN2.6+ Fuel Nozzle Arrangement

This method of staging the fuel requires individual control valves (GCV-1, GCV-2, GCV-3, and
GCV-4) for each fuel passage. In order to simplify the fuel flow and split control, the control valves
are operated with a critical pressure ratio. A P2 pressure value, or control valve supply pressure, is
preprogrammed into the control scheme in order to maintain this critical pressure ratio throughout the
operating range. This control method provides a linear relationship between control valve stroke and
gas flow.
During certain DLN modes of operation, some passages will have no fuel flow scheduled. A means
of purging these stagnant passages is required to prevent condensate from accumulating, and to
minimize the potential for auto-ignition. The gas fuel that remains in a passage after fuel flow is
commanded off is purged into the combustion chambers when the purge is commanded on. A
connection to the purge air system is located just downstream of the gas control valves. This ensures
that the entire length of pipe and manifold is purged.

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GEK 116281

Gas Fuel System

Table 1. DLN Mode Staging Diagram

MODE

PASSAGES
FUELED

PASSAGES
PURGED

D
1D
3
6.2

D5
D5 + PM1
PM1 + PM2
PM1 + PM2 + PM3

PM1 + PM2 +PM3

PM2 + PM3
D5 + PM3
D5

6.3

PM1 + PM2 + PM3

D5

3D

D5 + PM1 + PM2

PM3

6D

D5 + PM1 + PM2 + PM3

NONE

PM1 + PM2

D5 + PM3

Figure 2. Startup and Shutdown Mode Sequence

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Gas Fuel System

GEK 116281

B. Pre-start Conditions
Prior to unit start, the following start conditions must be satisfied for the Gas Fuel and Gas Purge
System.
1. Gas fuel supply pressure at FG1 within limits.
2. Gas fuel module/compartment ventilation pressure normal.
3. SRV and GCV Servo currents within limits.
4. P2 pressure feedback signal within limits.
5. Control valves track commands within limits.
6. Valve position feedback within limits.
7. All GCVs closed.
8. Auxiliary Stop Valve and SRV cavity pressure normal.
9. No gas purge valve position faults.
During the start period, the above conditions are continuously checked by the control system. If any
condition is not satisfied, the unit will not be allowed to start.
Prior to starting the gas fuel system, several systems must be operating:

Gas fuel compressors, when pipe line supply pressure is insufficient

Gas fuel electric startup heater

Instrument air system

Pre-Ignition P2 Pressure High Start Inhibit

The Pre-Ignition P2 Pressure High protection sequencing makes sure that the P2 cavity is clear of any
pressure while the vent valve is open, just prior to light-off. If the P2 pressure (FPG2) exceeds a
specified pressure prior to firing permissive (L2TVZ), a pre-ignition trip or Start Inhibit (L4PRETX)
and alarm will occur.
C. Startup & Loading Operation
Gas Purge Valve Test
At the very beginning of startup, the gas purge valves are tested automatically by the controls to
verify that slew times are within specification. All valves are cycled open and close with the resultant
time to complete each operation for each valve being measured. An alarm signal generates for any
valve that does not cycle within the allotted time frame. Alarm signals are generated for both open
and close time violations for each valve. The turbine will not start cranking, if any valve fails to pass
the test. Once the gas purge valve test is complete, the gas turbine starts to crank.

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GEK 116281

Gas Fuel System

Gas Fuel Leak Test

The Gas Leak Test will test the SRV, GCVs and Aux stop valve (If provided) for high leakage rates
upon startup and shutdown by monitoring the pressure in the P2 cavity. The tests will take place
when the turbine starts purging speed for the startup test and just after the turbine is shutdown for the
shutdown test. Once either of these enable commands have been met, the test will start. The Gas Leak
Test is composed of four (4) steps. See Figure 3 Gas Leak Test Function Block Diagram.
Test A:
Test A will monitor the leakage across the SRV. The Auxiliary Stop Valve will be commanded open,
the Gas fuel Vent valve will be commanded shut (VA13-15), and the Gas fuel Trip Solenoid will be
opened (20FG-1) to allow the trip system piping to fill up with oil for the next phase of testing. If the
leakage across the SRV is excessive and the P2 cavity pressure rises above K86GLTA pressure in
K86GLT1 seconds, turbine startup will be inhibited and the machine will shutdown.
Open SRV: Once Test A has been passed, the SRV will be commanded open by forcing the SRV
pressure offset to a large pressure value for K86GLT2 seconds to ensure that the P2 cavity has been
pressurized to full line (supply) pressure. The SRV and the Aux Stop Valve will then be commanded
closed again and Test B will start. When K86GLT2 times out, the P1 pressure and P2 pressure will be
latched and compared to each other. If the difference between the two pressures is greater than
K96FG_DIFF, an alarm will notify the controller.
Test B:
Test B will monitor the P2 pressure and make sure that the GCVs or Vent Valve is not leaking
excessively. If the P2 pressure drops below more than K86GLTB psi after K86GLT3 seconds, the
turbine will start inhibit and latch in an alarm. If Test B passes after K86GLT3 seconds, the vent will
open and the pressure will drain out of the P2 cavity. If there is no Aux Stop Valve, the test is over,
and the turbine will proceed with normal operation.
Relieve Pressure:
If Aux Stop Valve is required for the system, the test will wait 5 seconds to ensure that all valves
have been returned to normal state. The SRV will then be opened again to relieve any pressure that
has been built up between the Aux Stop Valve and the SRV during the tests. Once this pressure has
been drained, the SRV will close and the test will be completed.
NOTE
If the SRV does not return to its normal, sealed position when the test times out, the
P2 Pre-Ignition Trip will alarm and inhibit startup.

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Gas Fuel System

GEK 116281

Figure 3. Gas Fuel Leak Test Function Block Diagram

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13

GEK 116281

Valve
Test

Condition

SRV

Gas Fuel System

Aux SRV Vent Vlv GCVs

Stop
Vlv
Open Closed Closed Closed

Pass Criteria

Test
Time

Action

Unit Start and

P2 < 100 PSIG
30 sec
Startup
Normal Shutdown *
Lockout
FPG2
Unit Start and
Open Open Closed Closed ABS (P1-P2) < 20
1 sec
Alarm
x-mitters Normal Shutdown *
PSI
GCV
Unit Start and
Closed Closed Closed Closed P2 > P1 150 PSI
30 sec
Startup
Normal Shutdown *
Lockout
Venting Unit Start and
Closed Closed Open Closed
P2 < 6 psi
After
Startup
Normal Shutdown *
Vent timer Lockout
Post Ignition P2 Pressure High and Low Trip
After firing and before warm-up complete, the P2 pressure is monitored to ensure that it is within a
pre-determined pressure window. The desired unit P2 pressure during warm-up is calculated to
achieve the unit pressure window. If the pressure is lower or higher then a specified tolerance for a
given time frame, the unit will alarm and trip.
IV.

CONTROL
A. P2 Pressure Control
The SRV (VSR-1) modulates to control gas supply pressure (P2), to the independent Gas control
valves. The median selected value FPG2 of the triple redundant P2 pressure transducers (96FG-2A,
96FG-2B, 96FG-2C) is used in the Proportional + Integral controller. The P2 pressure set-point
(FPGR) is a function of Gas Turbine speed (TNH). The output of the proportional + integral
controller is a valve position reference (FRCROUT). The position command to the SRV is switched
negative to ensure fast and positive shutoff in the event of a unit trip, or following flame out on
shutdown. This negative position command, (FPKGSD) saturates the servo amplifier current in the
close direction. FRCROUT is the position reference to a servo amplifier. See Figure 4 SRV P2
Pressure Control Algorithm Diagram.

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Gas Fuel System

GEK 116281

Figure 4. SRV P2 Pressure Control Algorithm Diagram

The P2 pressure set-point is lower at low speed, in order to provide better flow control at low fuel
flow. Thus, the gas control valve (VGC) does not have to reduce full line pressure, allowing the GCV
to open further, providing for better low flow control. The P2 pressure increases linearly to the 100%
rated speed set-point. The pressure downstream of the gas control valves (P3), at maximum fuel flow
is used to determine the rated speed P2 pressure set-point. The downstream pressure (P3) is a
function of gas turbine compressor pressure ratio and fuel nozzle size. The rated speed pressure setpoint must be sufficient to maintain critical pressure drop across the control valves at max flow. The
controlled P2 pressure and the critical pressure drop design of the gas control valves ensure that the
percentage valve stroke is proportional to percentage fuel flow.
The control of the SRV is accomplished by using an inner and outer loop. The SRVs position control
loop is the inner control loop. The pressure control loop is the outer control loop. The Three nos. of
LVDTs sense SRV position and their outputs are returned to Gas Turbine control system. The error
between the position command FRCROUT and the position feedback then becomes the input to the
servo amplifier. The servo amplifier drives the servo valve in the direction required to decrease the
position error. A null current bias is applied to the amplified signal in order to overcome the fail safe
servo spring bias. See Figure 5 SRV Control Schematic

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15

Gas Fuel System

Figure 5. SRV Stop/Speed Ratio Valve Control Schematic

GEK 116281

16

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Gas Fuel System

GEK 116281

B. Gas Flow and Split Control

The gas control valves (VGC-1, VGC-2, VGC-3, VGC-4) modulate to control fuel flow and split
between the four fuel passages. The percentage of fuel to each passage is a function of Combustion
Reference Temperature, and DLN operating mode. The control systems fuel command, FSR, is the
percentage of maximum fuel flow required by the control system to maintain either speed/load, or
another set-point. The combined flow references used to position the four independent control valves
is proportional to FSR. FSR is divided into two parts, which make up the fuel split set-point, FSR1
and FSR2. FSR1 is the percentage of maximum fuel flow required from the Liquid Fuel System, and
FSR2 is the percentage of maximum fuel flow required from the Gas Fuel System. FX1 is the fuel
split command. A fuel-split command FX1 of 1.0 is equal to 100 % liquid fuel FSR1, and a fuel-split
command FX1 of 0.0 is equal to 100% gas fuel FSR2. For a gas only machine, FSR2 is always equal
to FSR.
FSR2 is again divided into four parts for the four independent control valves. FQRG1, FQRG2,
FQRG3, and FQRG4 are the percentage of FSR2 to be sent to the D5 Diffusion gas fuel nozzles, the
PM1 Premix center gas fuel nozzles, PM3 Premix outer gas fuel nozzles, and PM2 Premix gas fuel
nozzles. FSRG1OUT, FSRG2OUT, FSRG3OUT, and FSRG4OUT are the final output signals to the
position loop regulators after the shutdown position select logic. The position commands to each
valve are switched negative to ensure fast and positive shutoff in the event of a unit trip, or following
flame out on shutdown. This negative position command, FSKSHUT saturates the servo amplifier
current in the close direction. FSRG1OUT is the position reference to a servo amplifier, which drives
the coils of the D5 Diffusion GCV. FSRG2OUT is the position reference to a servo amplifier, which
drives the coils of the PM1 Premix GCV. FSRG3OUT is the position reference to a servo amplifier,
which drives the coils of the PM3 Premix GCV. FSRG4OUT is the position reference to a servo
amplifier, which drives the coils of the PM2 Premix GCV. See Figure 6 GCV Control Algorithm
Diagram.

Figure 6. GCV Control Algorithm Diagram

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GEK 116281

Gas Fuel System

Three LVDTs sense the GCVs stem position and their outputs are returned to each channel of the
control system. The error between the position command and the position feedback then becomes the
input to the servo amplifiers. The servo amplifiers drive the servo valves in the direction required to
decrease the position error. A null current bias is applied to the amplified signal in order to overcome
the fail safe servo spring bias. See Figure 7 GCV Control Schematic.

VGC-n
65GC-n
96GC-m
96GC-n
96GC-o
FSG-n
FAG-n
FSRGnOUT

GCV Instrumentation and Control Signals

VGC-1
VGC-2
VGC-3
65GC-1
65GC-2
65GC-3
96GC-1
96GC-4
96GC-7
96GC-2
96GC-5
96GC-8
96GC-3
96GC-6
96GC-9
FSG-1
FSG-2
FSG-3
FAG-1
FAG-2
FAG-3
FSRG1OUT FSRG2OUT FSRG3OUT

VGC-4
65GC-4
96GC-10
96GC-11
96GC-12
FSG-4
FAG-4
FSRG4OUT

Figure 7. GCV Control Schematic

18

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Gas Fuel System

GEK 116281

C. Gas Fuel Temperature Compensation

Triple redundant gas temperature thermocouples (FTG-1A, -1B, -2A) measure supply temperature at
the auxiliary stop valve inlet. The median selected value is used in the controls to compensate for
varying gas supply. In order to maintain consistent fuel flow during open loop fuel control, a
correction factor is applied to the control valves fuel command. This correction factor is a function of
the fuel temperature deviation from nominal design temperature. All open loop fuel control set points
are set for the nominal design temperature. The correction factor increases or decreases the fuel
stroke command in order to provide the target mass flow with changing fuel temperature.
D. Gas Purge Control
Purge air flow is controlled by purge valves (VA13-nn) arranged in a double block and bleed
configuration. The purge system is designed in an independent flow path scheme. The diffusion
purge flow path operates independently from the rest of the purge system, controlled by two purge
valves (VA13-1 and VA13-2). The PM1 purge flow path is controlled by two valves (VA13-20 and
VA13-21). The PM3 purge flow path is controlled by two valves (VA13-3 and VA13-4). The PM2
purge flow path is controlled by two valves (VA13-23 and VA13-24). Solenoid valves (20PG-nn)
pneumatically actuate the purge valves open or closed. This control method does not allow for
intermediate positioning of the purge valves. A manual needle valve (I/P controller for VA13-2 only)
provides a means of adjusting the opening rate, and the quick exhaust valve (VA36-nn) controls the
closing rate of the purge valves. Refer to gas fuel purge schematic (MLI-0477) for details. The
control system energizes the solenoid valves in order to open the purge valves. When a solenoid
valve is energized, pilot air is supplied to the quick exhaust valve (VA36-nn) which opens, allowing
air to flow to the purge valve (VA13-nn) actuator. The purge valves open at a rate set by the metering
needle valve in the air supply line of the 20PG valve, and allow purge air to flow to the gas manifold.
A purge valve test is performed automatically by the controls at the beginning of machine startup to
verify that valve open/close slew times are within specification. Refer to Startup and Shutdown
Control & Protection Article for further information.
The purge valves provide different functions, depending on the mode of operation. While operating
in purge mode, they admit purge air to the fuel passage. While operating in blocking mode, these
valves provide a double block and bleed isolation of fuel from the purge air system. An inter-cavity
vent valve (20VG-nn) is located between the two purge valves which provides a block and bleed
system. In the event that fuel leaks past the gas purge valves in either direction become too excessive
for the vent valve to bleed off, pressure switches will sense the cavity pressure, and an appropriate
action will be executed as described in section V. Protection.

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GEK 116281

Gas Fuel System

V. PROTECTION
The following key describes the protective actions initiated by the control system for the gas fuel and gas
fuel purge systems.
Key:

A
SI
LO
RB
FRB
PIT
SD
STP
TP
OFF
PBR

= Alarm
= Start Inhibit
= Lockout Loading & DLN Mode Transfers
= Normal load runback until condition clears
= Fast load runback until condition clears
= Pre-ignition Trip (No Trip after Warm-up complete)
= Unit Shutdown
= Soft trip
= Trip
= System is turned off
= Push button reset

A. P2 Pressure Control Protection and SRV Position Control Protection

Alarms and protective actions are initiated by the control system to protect the gas turbine and
combustion hardware from a loss of fuel control. The following table illustrates these protective
features.
In addition to P2 pressure protection, valve position fault protection is provided in the control system.
If the SRV is not tracking position commands, it will result in DLN split errors, loss of load control,
and potential trips. The SRV has triple redundant position feedback transducers (LVDTs).
Table 2. Protective levels and actions for the Gas Fuel System Gas Pressure
Test
SRV Not
Tracking

Action
A, TP, PBR

Description
Alarm if the SRV valve actual position is not following specified
position reference until warm-up is complete. Trip if the SRV valve
actual position is not following specified position
reference until warm-up is complete.

Pre-Ignition
P2 Check

A, SI, TP, PBR

If the P2 pressure exceeds specifications for predetermined seconds

before firing permissive is reached, alarm and inhibit start.

Post Ignition
P2 Check

A, TP, PBR

Running P2
Check

A, RB

If the P2 Pressure exceeds specifications for predetermined seconds

between firing permissive and warm-up complete, alarm and trip the
unit. If the P2 pressure falls below specified pressure for
predetermined seconds between firing permissive and warm-up
complete, alarm and trip the unit.
If the P2 pressure falls below specified limit for predetermined
seconds, alarm and run the unit back to safe mode.

Bottle Test

A, SI, TP, PBR

20

If the P2 pressure rises above specified pressure during test A, start

inhibit. If the P2 pressure dips below specified pressure during test
B, start inhibit. If the P1 pressure and P2 pressure transmitters do not
read within specified differential pressure of each other, alarm the
controller.

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Gas Fuel System

GEK 116281

B. Independent Flow Path Purge Protection

Alarms and protective actions are initiated by the control system to protect the purge system and
combustion hardware from loss of purge, failure to purge idle gas from fuel passages, or failure to
block gas fuel from entering the purge system. Failure to purge fuel from unused passages poses a
risk of auto-ignition. A loss of purge will result in the formation of condensate in manifolds and
piping. A loss of fuel blocking can result in a hazardous condition where gas fuel is present in the
purge system, with the potential for fuel ignition. Multiple sensors are used in the purge fault
detection strategy. There are open and closed limit switches on each valve, as well as purge cavity
pressure switches. A low pressure while purging indicates a loss of purge fault and a high pressure
while blocking indicates a loss of blocking fault. The controls utilize all of these sensors in the
protective strategy in order to provide single fault tolerant protection. The following table illustrates
these protective actions.
Table 3. Independent Flow Path Purge Protection
EVE
NT
Loss of Purge
(LOP)

CONDITION

ACTION

Single limit switch indicating out of

position or a single pressure switch
indicating low

< 50 psig

Both limit switches out of position on a

single valve (double fault) OR
Voted low pressure OR
Combination of two: valve limit
switches or limit switch & pressure
fault

< 50 psig

A, LO,
FRB, STP

Single limit switch indicating out of

position or a single pressure switch
indicating high

> 50 psig

A, PIT
(valve sensors
ONLY)

Limit switch double fault on a single

valve OR
Combination of two: valve limit
switches or limit switch & pressure
fault

> 50 psig

SD

Voted high pressure OR

Both limit switches on a single valve
out of position plus any other single
valve limit switch or pressure fault OR
Three single faults in a row (VA13- 1
limit switch fault; pressure switch fault;
VA13-2 limit switch fault)

> 50 psig

TP

< 0.95 Ratio

Low purge
pressure ratio

SET-POINT

Loss of
Blocking
(LOB)

FAULT

Low purge pressure sensed at D5

manifold

Consult the Control Specification for detailed adjustments and settings of the gas fuel and gas fuel
purge systems.
Consult the Device Summary for detailed device settings and calibration.
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21

GEK 116281

Gas Fuel System

Figure A1. Simplified Gas Fuel System Schematic

APPENDIX

22

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GEK 116281

Figure A2. Simplified Gas Fuel Purge System Schematic

Gas Fuel System

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23

GEK 116281

Gas Fuel System

GE Energy
General Electric Company
www.gepower.com

24

General Electric Company, 2008. GE Proprietary Information. All Rights Reserved.