Woodward Turbine Governor Manufacturer
In the demanding landscape of power generation and mechanical drive applications, the stability of a prime mover is non-negotiable. As a specialized supplier of industrial automation spare parts, we provide the critical Woodward Turbine Governor solutions required to maintain precise speed and load control for your most vital assets.
The Woodward TG-13 is a cornerstone of this category, recognized globally as a self-contained, mechanical-hydraulic, speed droop governor designed specifically for small steam turbines where isochronous (constant speed) operation is not required.
The TG-13 series is engineered for durability and simplicity, offering a cost-effective solution for regulating steam flow to turbines driving alternators, pumps, compressors, and paper-making machinery. Operating with a work output of 12 lb-ft (16 N·m), the TG-13 utilizes an internal gerotor oil pump driven by the governor's drive shaft to maintain an internal pressure of 150 psi (1034 kPa).
This self-contained hydraulic system, which includes its own oil sump and relief valve-accumulator, ensures stable operation even during transient conditions while reducing the risk of external contamination.
Our inventory supports the full range of TG-13 configurations to meet diverse industrial requirements. The governor is available in three distinct speed ranges: 1100 to 2400 rpm, 2400 to 4000 rpm, and 4000 to 6000 rpm. Furthermore, we supply both standard screw speed-setting and optional lever speed-setting types to accommodate your specific installation needs.
For extreme environments common in the oil and gas, petrochemical, and marine industries, the TG-13 features a weatherproof construction and is available in either a die-cast aluminum or rugged cast-iron case.
By leveraging our strategic relationships with world-renowned PLC and DCS maintenance service providers, we bridge the gap for hard-to-find Woodward components and legacy hardware.
Whether you are maintaining a turbine in a chemical plant or a propulsion system on an offshore platform, our vetted TG-13 governors ensure your equipment operates within the tight tolerances required by NEMA "A" classifications. Partnering with us secures your facility’s technical integrity, minimizes unscheduled downtime, and extends the lifecycle of your critical prime mover assets across all industrial sectors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are the primary signs that our Woodward TG-13 governor requires maintenance?
Operational indicators include speed instability (hunting or surging), abnormal response times to load changes, or unusual noises such as grinding or rattling. Visible oil leaks or a drop in internal hydraulic pressure are also critical warning signs. In mechanical-hydraulic systems, these issues often stem from worn flyweight pins, sticking pilot valve plungers, or contaminated oil.
2. Can we change the drive shaft rotation of a TG-13 governor in the field?
Yes. On die-cast aluminum models, the rotation can be changed externally by removing four screws and rotating the pump housing 180 degrees. For cast-iron versions, the change must be performed internally. Always ensure the governor is drained of oil before attempting to modify the pump housing orientation.
3. Which type of oil is recommended for use in the TG-13 self-contained sump?
Woodward recommends using high-quality oils with a viscosity of 100 to 300 SUS at operating temperatures, typically corresponding to SAE 10 to 50 grades. The total capacity is approximately 1.75 quarts (1.7 L). In extremely cold environments, a lighter 5-weight or 10-weight oil may be necessary to ensure a smooth start-up.
4. How do we address a "hunting" condition where the turbine speed oscillates under a steady load?
Hunting is often caused by an incorrect setting of the speed droop or a sticking mechanical component. First, verify that the compensating needle valve is adjusted correctly and that the governor drive mechanism is aligned without excessive backlash. If the mechanical linkage is sound, internal wear in the flyweight head or power piston may require the installation of a verified replacement module.
5. Is the TG-13 governor sufficient for overspeed protection on its own?
No. While the TG-13 provides precise speed regulation, the turbine must always be equipped with an overspeed shutdown device that operates totally independently of the primary governor. This ensures that if the mechanical-hydraulic governor or linkage fails, a separate safety system can prevent a runaway condition that could cause personal injury or catastrophic equipment damage.
