Gas turbines operate under extreme temperature and mechanical stress, making internal inspection essential for safe and efficient performance. Traditional inspection methods often require extensive disassembly, increasing outage duration and maintenance costs. Remote Visual Inspection (RVI) allows engineers to access hard-to-reach turbine components with minimal intrusion. This approach provides high-resolution insights while significantly reducing downtime.
A power plant experienced reduced turbine efficiency and suspected internal component degradation. Manual inspection required partial turbine teardown, leading to extended outages and high labor demands. Technicians could not access critical areas such as blade roots, cooling passages, and combustor liner interiors. There was no reliable way to document internal conditions for trend analysis or warranty support. Uncertainty around component wear increased the risk of unexpected forced shutdowns. The plant needed a fast, precise inspection method that avoided major disassembly.
We deployed a high-resolution IPLEX GX equipped with flexible borescopes and articulating video probes. The system enabled engineers to navigate through narrow turbine pathways without dismantling major assemblies. Live video feed and image capture supported detailed assessment of cracks, corrosion, deposits, and thermal damage. Measurement tools within the RVI software allowed accurate sizing of defects and comparison with operational limits. All findings were digitally archived for lifecycle trend monitoring and planning future maintenance. The inspection was completed within hours instead of weeks, with zero impact on surrounding systems.
Significantly reduced turbine outage duration
Precise defect identification without full disassembly
Improved maintenance planning through digital documentation
Lower inspection cost and enhanced operational reliability
Our RVI enabled the power plant to inspect internal turbine components quickly and accurately, without intrusive teardown. This solution improved reliability, reduced costs, and strengthened predictive maintenance programs.
