Ask the Expert

Fluid-film bearings are essential to turbomachinery performance, but their reliability depends on careful attention to design, lubrication, and monitoring practices. Day Griffin, MSME, PE, and Michael Branagan Ph.D., PE from Pioneer Motor Bearing Company spoke with Turbomachinery International about how operators must balance precision and maintenance discipline to maximize bearing life and prevent costly failures.

Next-generation compressor systems must balance custom engineering, cost-effectiveness, and reliability, particularly for hydrogen applications. Siemens Energy’s advanced rotor technology boosts power density, reduces stages, and improves efficiency. With rising demand in decarbonization-driven applications, modern engineering tools and adaptive maintenance are vital for hydrogen compression and high-speed turbomachinery

Jeff Wirt, Director of Catalyst Systems at EnergyLink International sat with Turbomachinery to discuss a new direct injection system for liquid ammonia that streamlines Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) in gas turbines. By eliminating the need for vaporization skids, blowers, and extensive piping, the technology reduces costs, improves NOx reduction efficiency, and lowers parasitic power consumption. Full-scale field tests confirm the system not only meets regulatory limits but also outperforms traditional SCR methods while offering faster deployment for a range of turbine models.

Dominic Sarachine of FS-Elliott highlights the efficiency, reliability, and lower power use of centrifugal compressors, along with tips for optimizing performance through maintenance, smart controls, and monitoring. He also explains how AI is enhancing operations with real-time adjustments and less manual intervention.