Turbonetics Energy Independence Steam Turbine

MSI’s Turbonetics Energy Independence (TEI) turbine uses advanced rotor design to achieve the following breakthrough characteristics:
  • Unsurpassed efficiency, typically 75% as opposed to 55% typical of conventional technologies

  • Superior efficiency is maintained over a broad operating range

  • Very small footprint, such that the entire skid takes up less floor space than is typically occupied by only the turbine itself. TEI skid footprints are typically less than 20 sq. ft. for a 2MW unit.

TEI Turbine cut away

This cross-section of MSI’s integrally geared Turbonetics radial inflow steam turbine (single stage shown, a second stage can bolt to pinion opposite end; 3rd and 4th stages can be fit to a pinion on opposite side of driven gear). When warranted, variable angle nozzles on the turbine inlet are used to provide automatic control of the steam header pressure.

MSI’s Turbonetics turbine is a high efficiency prime mover applicable to power generation in the 700 kW – 9,000 kW electrical power range. It sets the standard in this segment of the power generation market. The Rankine-cycle turbine’s radial inflow design and high operating speed result in a compact device that is especially well suited to back-fit and waste heat recovery. Our experience ranges from turbine-generator sets to full turnkey plants, depending on customer requirements. Primary applications include:

  • Installation of a TEI turbine to replace an existing pressure reducing valve
  • Pressure reduction between high and low pressure headers
  • Inclusion in new steam generation facilities, where steam usage at a positive backpressure is required (non-condensing)
  • Retrofit applications where a higher pressure boiler capacity exists than is currently being utilized
  • Replacement of an existing low-efficiency power generation turbine with a high-efficiency radial inflow unit
  • Mechanical drive prime movers


    • TEI MLMNMSI’s Turbonetics steam turbine generators are skid mounted with all auxiliaries and controls attached.

    Whether the TEI Turbine is installed as a primary electrical generation unit, is installed to provide secondary or back-up power, or is being used to scavenge energy at the back end of a steam process, facilities will benefit from the low installation cost, the large annual savings, and the simplicity that the TEI Turbine makes possible. The energy efficiency not only slashes operating costs, but also reduces carbon footprint, making the TEI Turbine eligible for a variety of Federal and State rebates and tax credits.


    The typical range of previous Turbonetics turbine applications includes the following:


    Scope of Supply Steam Conditions Application
    865-kW, 480-V synchronous turbine generator Inlet: 250 psig, 400F
    Exhaust: 15 psig
    Flow: 27,500 lb/h    		 Co-generation using a facility boiler
    1,000-kW, 2,400-V induction turbine generator Inlet: 280 psig, 400F
    Exhaust: 55 psig
    Flow: 32,000 lb/h    		 Replace steam pressure reducing valve in steam heating system
    3,150-kW, 4,160-V induction turbine generator Inlet: 885 psig, 665F
    Exhaust: 145 psig
    Flow: 74,000 lb/h    		 Replace steam pressure reducing valve in process steam system in chemical plant
    3,400-kW, 2,400-V synchronous turbine generator and electrical switchgear Inlet: 190 psig, 535F
    Exhaust: 120 psig
    Flow: 377,000 lb/h    		 Replace steam pressure reducing valve in pharmaceutical processing plant
    3,000-kW, 4,160-V synchronous turbine generator set, electrical switchgear, 4,160 to 13.8 kV step-up transformer, system ancillaries, and turn-key installation Inlet: 625 psig, 493F
    Extraction: 275 psig
    Exhaust: 90 psig
    Flow: 100,000 lb/h    		 Co-generate electric power for local utility while providing steam heating and cooling
    3,000-kW, 2,400-V synchronous turbine generator set Inlet: 400 psig, 448F
    Exhaust: 50 psig
    Flow: 95,000 lb/h    		 Co-generation provides process steam and power for CO2 plant


    TEI Impeller and Pinion GearThe heart of the turbine generator is a balanced open radial ruled impeller with full exducers, polygon fit to shaft and tie bolt. The pinion is forged with integral gearing. Typical wheel diameters range from 6 to 17 inches; rotating speeds from 17,000 to 46,000 rpm; tip speeds from 750 to 1,450 ft/sec. The result: Best-in-class turbine overall efficiencies in the 70% to 80% range.
    TEI Turbine GearboxThe gearbox is cast, horizontally split with integral oil passages, inspection ports and lifting lugs.
    TEI bearings and sealsPinion radial bearings are tilting pad, horizontally split, Babbitt lined, steel backed. The active face of the pinion thrust bearing is tilting pad, horizontally split, Babbitt lined, copper-backed. The inactive face if tapered land, horizontally split, Babbitt lined, copper backed. The bull gear radial bearings are sleeve type, horizontally split, Babbitt lined, steel backed. The bull gear thrust bearings are tapered land, horizontally split, Babbitt lined, steel backed.
    TEI variable inlet guide vanesVariable guide vanes are a unique option on TEI turbines. Their installation allows a broad operating rangeat high efficiency.

    Parts and Field Service:

    We don’t just design machinery systems - we service and troubleshoot them too. Our skilled engineers and technicians have experience in the inspection, diagnosis, and repair of all types of rotating equipment. From machinery analysis to seal and bearing replacement or a complete system overhaul, we provide prompt, experienced service. We are also your OEM source for parts and field service for the Turbonetics line of backpressure steam turbine-generators.

    For further information, contact Charlie Prisco at 973-326-9920 x-119.