RH133

Common issues

• Compressor fouling (reduced airflow, surging, efficiency drop)
• Turbine fouling (reduced power, high exhaust temperature, surging)
• Bearing wear (increased vibration, abnormal noise, risk of shaft damage)
• Oil seal leakage (excessive oil consumption, contamination of charge air or exhaust)
• Rotor imbalance (leading to excessive vibration and accelerated bearing wear)
• Foreign Object Damage (FOD) to compressor or turbine blades
• Exhaust gas leaks from casing joints (reduced efficiency, safety hazard)

Inspection checklist

• Visual inspection for oil and exhaust gas leaks from casing joints, drain lines, and connections.
• Check for abnormal noise and vibration during operation (use listening stick or vibration meter if available).
• Inspect compressor and turbine wheels for fouling, damage, and rubbing marks (via inspection ports or during scheduled opening).
• Verify axial and radial bearing clearances (during scheduled maintenance or if vibration is suspected).
• Check condition of air intake filter and exhaust gas silencer/spark arrestor.
• Monitor lubricating oil pressure and temperature (if externally supplied) or check oil level and condition (if self-lubricated).
• Inspect insulation for damage and integrity, especially on hot surfaces.
• Check tightness of mounting bolts and exhaust pipe connections.
• Verify functionality of overspeed trip (if fitted, typically during major overhaul or specific test).

Service intervals

Typical wear limits

Ranges are typical for this design class. Always confirm against the manufacturer documentation for your serial number.

Critical spares

• Bearing kit (thrust and journal bearings, O-rings, sealing rings)
• Gasket set for casing and connections (high-temperature resistant)
• Oil filter elements (if applicable to the specific lubrication system)
• Cleaning agents/kits for compressor and turbine washing
• Shaft sealing rings (labyrinth or piston ring type)
• Mounting bolts and nuts (high-temperature resistant)

Safety

• High surface temperatures of exhaust casing and turbine housing – severe burn risk.
• High rotational speeds (up to 100,000+ RPM) – potential for catastrophic failure if rotor imbalance or bearing failure occurs.
• Pressurized exhaust gas and charge air – risk of leaks or sudden release during maintenance.
• Hot lubricating oil – risk of burns and fire if leaks occur.
• High noise levels – require hearing protection during operation and maintenance.

Class survey

Class surveyors typically review maintenance records, running hours, and previous survey reports. They conduct a visual inspection for external leaks (oil, exhaust gas), casing integrity, insulation condition, and mounting security. Verification of turbocharger performance parameters from logbooks (charge air pressure, exhaust gas temperatures, RPM) is common. Confirmation of satisfactory operation and absence of abnormal noise/vibration is expected. Availability of critical spare parts as per Class requirements will be checked. If opened for maintenance during the survey, bearing clearances and rotor condition will be inspected.

Estimated lifetime: First Major Overhaul: 8,000 - 12,000 hours. With subsequent overhauls and component replacement, total operational life can exceed 40,000 hours.