WÄRTSILÄ VASA 6L32, Instruction Manual

Page: 237 / 394

15.3 Water cleaning of turbocharger during
operation
15.3.1 Water cleaning of turbine
The dirt deposits on the turbine side can be reduced by periodic
cleaning (washing) during operation. The overhaul periods can
thus be extended. Dirty turbines cause higher temperatures of
the exhaust gas and higher stress to the bearings due to imbal-
ance. Washing of the turbine side is necessary only when running
on heavy fuel.
During long periods of operation, periodic water cleaning pre-
vents the build-up of significant deposits on the turbine blades
and nozzle blades. This cleaning method does not work on very
dirty turbines which have not been washed regularly.
If the normal water cleaning of the turbine does not lower the
exhaust gas temperature level, hard deposits have probably built
up on the nozzle ring and the turbine blades in the turbocharger,
and they have to be cleaned mechanically. For that purpose, the
rotor cartridge and the nozzle ring have to be removed from the
turbocharger.
When washing with water, the water must be injected into the
exhaust system with the engine running at reduced output (see
15.3.2, step 2). The disadvantages of occasionally reducing the
output is not significant compared to the advantages of cleaning.
The necessary water flow is basically dependent upon the volume
of gas and its temperature. Additives or solvents must not be used
in the cleaning water. The use of salt water is prohibited.
Every gas inlet of the charger is equipped with a washing nozzle.
The nozzles are all connected to a common water connection
which has a valve and a quick-coupling. The water flow is con-
trolled by flow meter (4) to a suitable value, see table below.
Water cleaning of turbine
Turbocharger size Water flow (l/min)
TPL 65 16 - 19
TPL 67 19 - 23
TPL 69 23 - 27
Cleaning should take place regularly according to maintenance
schedule, see chapter 04. Depending on the results obtained, the
washing interval may be increased or reduced.
32-200549-10 Turbocharging and Air Cooling 15
WÄRTSILÄ 32 15 - 3