Challenge
The University of Notre Dame commissioned KFI Engineers to design the entire mechanical and electrical power distribution system for their new turbomachinery laboratory.
Approach
- New 10MVA substation, relay protection and 6MVA of regenerative braking from test cell turbines to be paralleled back into the medium voltage bus
- 15,900 HP of compressors and vacuum pumps, with custom-designed ductwork, silencers and safety features to accommodate mach 0.3, vacuums approaching 4 psia, and capable of moving over 40 lbm/s of air
- Closed-circuit, 3600-ton mechanical cooling system
- Compressed air temperatures of up to 1200°F
- Procurement of all major electrical gear and mechanical equipment
- Design of cooling plant station control system
- Complete process project management and scheduling
Outcome
This research turbomachinery testing facility advances the technology of large gas turbines used in aircraft, power plants, and the oil and gas industry applications.
