The compressor of a gas turbine ingests a large amount of air containing particulate matter, aerosols of hydrocarbons and other organic compounds and gases. Although the larger particulate matter is filtered out, the other compounds are deposited on the compressor blades. Compressor washing removes this deposited fouling and restores the aerodynamic profile and compressor efficiency. Also used for cleaning generator or other machinery and equipment components, water wash is periodically discharged as waste water.
Water wash is collected in a dedicated collection tank monitored for level with typical capacities of 50 to 100 gallons.