FOREIGN MATERIAL EXCLUSION (FME)

Prepared By - Tom Orrick

Orrick Generator & Turbine Services Pty Ltd PO Box 594 Castle Hill NSW 1765 Australia Tel: +61 2 9659 2435 Fax: +61 2 9659 2436 Mob: 0417 248 099

CONCEPT
Prevent any type of foreign particles from entering generator or auxiliary systems whenever components are opened. To educate the workforce and plant owners that a generator and its auxiliary systems need to be treated carefully and with respect.

IMPLEMENTATION
Anytime generator or auxiliary system is to be opened then FME practices must be applied. Generally FME established and controlled by contractor but may be utility working in house. When a contractor is used it is essential that the utility is fully aware of contractors intentions and practices. Similarly if in house then utility should have its own written procedures.

IMPLEMENTATION SPECIFICATION
The specification or enquiry to the contractor should request:
Detailed description of FME procedures and control mechanism. Clear indication of levels to be applied at different stages of the outage work. Sketches or photographs to show how and where boundaries are to be applied. QA documentation to be used for records and control.

OUTAGE DISMANTLE AND REBUILD

Typically expect to see in place
All exposed pipe flanges covered. Barriers and signs positioned restricting access. Any openings not being worked on to have temporary covers. Suitable clothing and control checks for all personnel entering generator. During rotor removal/replacement all ventilation openings external to the generator to be covered.

OUTAGE WORK TURBINE END ENCLOSURE

OUTAGE WORK TURBINE END ENCLOSURE

Usually scaffold frame with plastic or canvas covering to let light through. Wide enough to allow internal access platform. Sealed to stator casing. When rotor removed usually no access door and all TE access through rotor bore. When extensive work to be done on TE then require covered passageway down side of generator for access from EE enclosure.

OUTAGE WORK EXCITER END ENCLOSURE

OUTAGE WORK EXCITER END ENCLOSURE

OUTAGE WORK EXCITER END ENCLOSURE

Most common to have portable enclosure with aluminium frame and canvas cover often off the shelf tents or marquees. Sealed to stator casing. Well lit Floor covered preferred heavy duty brown paper . Single access point lockable. Change area at access either separate enclosure or cordoned off area.

WORK EXCITER END ENCLOSURE

Tack mats at access to change area and between change area and work enclosure. Change area to have available.
Clean condition coveralls. Overshoes + sandshoes. Sealable plastic bags for depositing personal items. List for names of persons accessing List for details of tools and items brought in and removed from enclosure. Full time control person if justifiable

(cont) OUTAGE

OUTAGE WORK ROTOR ENCLOSURE

OUTAGE WORK ROTOR ENCLOSURE

OUTAGE WORK ROTOR ENCLOSURE

Rotor possibly positioned away from stator so requires stand alone enclosure. Removable sections at each end to allow for heating and component removal. Longer than length of rotor with enough width for work space. Generally same attributes as EE enclosure but may need to be modified to suit location.

OUTAGE WORK ENCLOSURE CONTROL

Restrict access to permit/pass holders only. Normal working footware removed before entry to change area. Either left outside or soles inspected and put back on for use with overshoes. ALL items in pockets removed plus jewellery and watches. Clean condition clothing and special footwear NOT worn outside of enclosure.

SPOT THE HAZARD?