The GE LM1600 gas turbine is a lightweight, efficient prime mover for commercial and military marine applications. This gas turbine is a derivative of the F404 fighter jet engine whose mission objectives strongly emphasize reliability and ease of maintenance in an austere marine environment. These objectives were important to the U.S. Navy because the F/A-18 fighter jets powered by this engine are based on aircraft carriers where parts warehousing and maintenance capabilities are limited. To achieve these objectives, component designs were simplified and the total number of components was substantially reduced.
These features and its modular construction make the LM1600 attractive for marine applications. Numerous marine propulsion system configurations are possible, including various combinations with diesel engines and steam gas turbines as well as options for shaft or electric drive. The first commercial installation of the marine LM1600 gas turbine is in progress and sea trials will commence in late 1990.
This paper describes the design, performance, installation, and maintenance features of the marine LM1600 gas turbine.
This paper reviews the highlights of the first two seasons of commercial operation of GE LM2500 gas turbines installed in the Aquastrada class of fast ferries. The ships’ total propulsion systems were supplied and packaged by MTU-Friedrichshafen for this first commercial marine application of the LM2500 gas turbine. Problems encountered and lessons learned are presented as part of the paper.
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