Application of artificial neural networks to micro gas turbines

In this work, artificial neural networks (ANNs) were applied to describe the performance of a micro gas turbine (MGT). In particular, they were used (i) to complete performance diagrams for unavailable experimental data; (ii) to assess the influence of ambient parameters on performance; and (iii) to analyze and predict emissions of pollutants in the exhausts. The experimental data used to feed the ANNs were acquired from a manufacturer's test bed. Though large, the data set did not cover the whole working range of the turbine; ANNs and an artificial neural fuzzy interference system (ANFIS) were therefore applied to fill information gaps. The results of this investigation were also used for sensitivity analysis of the machine's behavior in different ambient conditions. ANNs can effectively evaluate both MGT performance and emissions in real installations in any climate, the worst R-2 in the validation set being 0.9962. (C) 2010 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.