Stochastic simulation of a power generation air joint

Abstract

A novel stochastic simulation approach is employed to predict the reliability of an air-supply expansion joint. This component is part of a large electric power generating system. In order to perform this task, multiple modeling tools are integrated, including Computational Fluid Dynamics, Finite Element Analysis, Stress-life method, and Latin Hypercube Sampling. As a result of the stochastic nature of the input parameters, the resulted life is in the form of a Probability Density Function, which enables the calculation of the reliability of the component at a given life. The application of this method to the air joint can be used to enhance the design and operation of the component by uncovering under-design or over-design. Furthermore, various alternative designs and operational scenarios can be studies using this stochastic model.