Abstract
This paper describes the optimum design for low-pressure steam turbine rotor of 1,000 MW nuclear power plant by using a combined genetic algorithm, which uses both a genetic algorithm and a local concentrate search algorithm (e.g. simplex method). This algorithm is not only faster than the standard genetic algorithm but also supplies a more accurate solution. In addition, this algorithm can find the global and local optimum solutions. The objective is to minimize the resonance response (Q factor) and total weight of the shaft, and to separate the critical speeds as far from the operating speed as possible. These factors play very important roles in designing a rotor-bearing system under the dynamic behavior constraint. In the present work, the shaft diameter, the bearing length, and clearance are used as the design variables. The results show that the proposed algorithm can improve the Q factor and reduce the weight of the shaft and the 1st critical speed.