context: the aero engine and gas turbine megaproject is one of sixteen top research projects that will replace the current megaprojects after 2020. It is one of the few projects of this new batch that is already officially launched, although details remain scarce. It follows a megaproject in large domestic aircraft, but also links to energy security, with NDRC and NEA setting goals for 2020.
China relies on imports for gas turbines that produce over 50 MW, reports Science and Technology Daily. Although only three percent of the country's installed power generating turbines are of this heavy type, they are more efficient, start and stop faster and generate less pollution than lighter turbines, which China can now produce domestically. Foreign firms can cut off China any moment, says the report.
The technology is with US firm GE, Japan's Mitsubishi, Germany's Siemens and Italy's Ansaldo, explains Gu Chunwei 顾春伟 'aero engine and gas turbines' Megaproject lead designer. The three big domestic players have set up collaboration with these firms. (Note: Shanghai Electric with Siemens, Harbin Electric with GE and Dongfang Electric with Mitsubishi.) But these firms only license non-core components to be produced in China, refusing to transfer knowledge of designs and hot-section components. Without domestic design capabilities, we are at the mercy of what these firms produce, says Gu. Relying on foreigners for maintenance and spare parts is a security risk, and when the collaborations end these firms may decide to stop supplying the Chinese market altogether, says Gu.
Developing the technology requires broad-ranging, long-term commitment, says Science and Technology Daily, explaining the challenges of producing enormous mono-crystalline turbine blades and other key components.