What does the warm-up time of a turbine depend on?

The warm-up time of a turbine primarily depends on the size of the turbine. Larger turbines generally require a longer warm-up period due to the greater mass of metal that needs to reach operating temperatures. The thermal expansion of the turbine components, such as the casing and blades, must be uniform to ensure proper alignment and function. Consequently, the larger the turbine, the more time it will take for it to evenly distribute heat throughout its structure, allowing for safe and optimal operation.

While other factors like speed, fuel type, and ambient temperature can influence the performance and efficiency of the turbine, the direct relationship with warm-up time is largely dictated by its size. Ensuring a gradual increase in temperature helps prevent thermal stress and damage to the turbine materials, especially in larger turbines where thermal gradients may be more pronounced.