NEW YORK, Nov 12, 2008 – “Gas Turbine Technologies: Meeting Complex Global Challenges,” will be the theme of the keynote session at ASME Turbo Expo 2009. 

ASME Turbo Expo – Gas Turbine Technical Congress and Exposition will be held June 8-12, 2009, at the World Center Marriott Resort and Convention Center in Orlando, Fla.  The conference will bring together engineers, research scientists, educators and other professionals involved in the design, operation, and maintenance of aero engines and stationary power turbines, says the ASME International Gas Turbine Institute (IGTI), organizer of the 5-day conference.  

The theme of the keynote session, according to Barry Nicholls, the executive conference chair of ASME Turbo Expo 2009, reflects the rapidly changing global environment for gas turbine technology and the worldwide demand for increased performance in power and efficiencies.

“The way to meet the global challenges is with aggressive technology innovation and implementation,” said Nicholls, who serves as vice president of sales at Siemens Power Systems.

The technical program for the conference will cover a range of subjects, including engine design, materials, cogeneration, alternative fuels, combustion diagnostics, and micro-turbines.

Sessions at Turbo Expo 2009, says Nicholls, will address technologies that are becoming increasingly relevant in industry as well as in research settings such as the U.S. Department of Energy.  These include the energy-efficient, clean technologies currently in development.

“High-hydrogen fuels and carbon-neutral bio-fuels with low emissions are research priorities in the Department of Energy,” noted Nicholls, who added that Siemens Power Systems has implemented its own programs in these areas.  “We also see technology breakthroughs coming in the areas of combustion and turbine engineering, materials and post-combustion gas treatment that enable improvements in costs, emissions, power performance, and efficiency.”

A highlight of Turbo Expo 2009 will be the three-day exposition showcasing the products and services of engine manufacturers, software developers, research laboratories, and other firms in the worldwide power industry.

 “Turbo Expo is a great forum to get the major players in the gas turbine world together for technical discussions and collaborations,” said Nicholls.

An international event, ASME Turbo Expo alternates each year between venues in North America and Europe.  ASME Turbo Expo 2008 in Berlin convened 2800 delegates from 56 countries.

IGTI, headquartered in Atlanta, Ga., supports the exchange of information focused on improving the design, manufacture, operation and maintenance, and environmental impact of gas turbines, turbo-machinery, and related equipment.

Founded in 1880 as the American Society of Mechanical Engineers, ASME is a not-for-profit professional organization promoting the art, science and practice of mechanical and multidisciplinary engineering and allied sciences.  ASME develops codes and standards that enhance public safety, and provides lifelong learning and technical exchange opportunities benefiting the global engineering and technology community.  ASME has more than 127,000 members worldwide.

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