Enhancing Thermal Power Plant Efficiency: Strategies and Technologies

Thermal power plants play a crucial role in providing electricity to millions of homes and industries worldwide. However, the efficiency of these plants is a critical factor that determines their overall performance and sustainability. There are several measures that can be taken to enhance the efficiency of thermal power plants, ranging from the selection of technology during plant commissioning to ongoing optimization of operational practices.

Selection of Technology During Commissioning

The choice of technology is one of the most important factors that can impact the efficiency of a thermal power plant. Currently, three main technologies are available:

Sub-critical Technology Design Efficiency: Super-critical Technology Design Efficiency: Ultra Super-critical Technology Design Efficiency: >45%

From an efficiency standpoint, the Ultra Super-critical technology is the best choice. However, the selection also depends on other factors such as cost, availability of technology, and the specific requirements of the plant.

Optimizing Old Power Plants

For existing power plants, the focus shifts to identifying areas where energy losses are highest and implementing specific solutions. Here are some general methods to improve the efficiency:

Operating the power plant near to design main steam pressure and temperature. Using Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) to optimize motor performance. Replacing conventional 6.6 KV High-Temperature (HT) motors with energy-efficient motors. Proper maintenance of Low-Pressure (LP) and High-Pressure (HP) heaters, economizers, superheaters, and air-preheaters. Attending to high-energy drain valves and addressing passings as needed. Maintaining proper vacuum in the condenser. Using LED lights for lighting purposes. Optimizing and addressing leaks in instrument and service air. Checking the conditions of pumps and optimizing their running. Optimizing the running of air conditioning systems. Operating equipment close to their design efficiency. Optimizing the number of coal mills running. Optimizing the running of conveyor belts used for transporting coal from the coal handling plant to the main power house site. Optimizing total air flow. Ensuring proper working of SADC dampers, soot blowers, and burner tilt mechanisms.

Modernization and Additional Measures

Beyond these general methods, specific measures can further enhance the efficiency of thermal power plants. For example:

Good Quality Coal: Selecting coal with high energy content and low ash content can improve the efficiency of the power plant. Proper Coal Pulverization: Ensuring that the coal is finely ground to optimize the combustion process. VFD for Motors: Variable frequency drives can help in more efficient utilization of electric motors. Bag Filters in ESP: Electrostatic precipitators equipped with bag filters can improve the efficiency of particulate matter removal. Duplex Heaters: These advanced heating systems can significantly reduce heat loss and improve overall system efficiency.

In the context of super-critical power plants, the efficiency of the turbine can be further increased due to the high-pressure operation of super-critical boilers. This can result in more work being done by the turbine and thus contribute to higher overall efficiency.

Conclusion

Improving the efficiency of thermal power plants is a multifaceted task that involves selecting the right technology, optimizing operational practices, and implementing advanced measures. By focusing on these areas, power plant professionals can significantly enhance the performance and sustainability of their plants.

References

For further clarity on the parameters and technologies used in thermal power plants, refer to the following resources:

Understanding Thermal Efficiency in Power Plants Nuclear Power Plant Efficiency