Striving for Operational Excellence: A Holistic Approach through Integrated Steam and Power Studies
A holistic methodology for understanding and improving integrated steam and power system behaviour.
This article introduces Solvina's holistic methodology involving dynamic simulation studies and comprehensive testing of an Integrated Steam and Power System. The objective is to identify and address system bottlenecks, leading to improved productivity and increased reliability within utility plants.
Introduction
Steam and power generation systems frequently experience disruptions caused by unforeseen equipment failures such as pump, turbine, fan and boiler failures.
Even during routine operation, process parameters can vary because of changes in production demand, seasonal fluctuations, day-night temperature variations, system resistance, inertia and controller responses.
Planned transitions between operating modes can also produce transient changes in process parameters. Startup and shutdown procedures introduce additional challenges when maintaining plant stability.
Understanding equipment and control-system behaviour in advance allows potential issues to be identified during both design and operation. Dynamic simulation provides a means of predicting plant performance and developing control strategies for transient conditions.
Grid-Connected Mode
In grid-connected operation, fuel availability is a primary determinant of steam and power production.
When fuel is in short supply, power production decreases and the plant may need to increase power import.
Islanded Mode
In islanded operation, power demand takes precedence and stable power output must be maintained.
Operator intervention, such as reducing island power consumption, may become necessary to ensure adequate fuel supply.
During the transition to islanded operation, automatic adjustment of control settings for selected process parameters allows operators to focus on maintaining the fuel balance.
Dynamic & Static Modelling
Solvina develops comprehensive dynamic and static models for integrated steam and power systems.
The models can include complex steam networks, steam headers, boilers, turbines and the complete electrical system.
Models are validated using testing equipment to align their behaviour with the actual plant. While the models follow international standards and established theories, they are tailored and calibrated for specific objectives.
Governor Testing under Islanded Conditions
Solvina has developed a testing method and equipment for evaluating and fine-tuning governors under islanded conditions.
The approach evaluates turbine frequency-control and load-handling capabilities together with the response of boilers, live steam pressure, governor valves and related parameters.
The tests can be conducted while the unit is connected to the grid without disrupting normal production, reducing the risk of system interruptions.
Benefits
- Enhanced control strategies for contingency and upset scenarios.
- Improved emergency preparedness through steam and power load-shedding schemes.
- Optimized plant performance through dynamic simulation and testing.
- Early identification and mitigation of potential operational risks.
- Greater operational flexibility between grid-connected and islanded modes.
Operational Flexibility
The ability to switch between grid-connected and islanded operation, together with suitable load-shedding schemes, enhances the plant's ability to maintain stable operation under changing conditions.
Conclusion
A holistic approach to steam and power generation strengthens the design and control of integrated systems while improving their ability to respond to unexpected events and emergencies.
Combining dynamic simulation studies with testing provides a basis for proactive control-system adjustments, improved operational preparedness and increased plant reliability.
What you'll learn
A holistic approach to steam and power generation strengthens the design and control of integrated systems while improving their ability to respond to unexpected events and emergencies. Combining dynamic simulation studies with testing provides a basis for proactive control-system adjustments, improved operational preparedness and increased plant reliability.