Systems and methods for blending multiple fuels

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to systems and methods for blending multiple fuels. A method (500) of blending at least two fuels (105), the method comprising: providing at least two fuels (105) to an injector (206) via a fuel supply system (100), the fuel supply system (100) comprising a fuel supply circuit (102) for each of the at least two fuels (105); mixing the at least two fuels (105) via a diffuser (214) of the injector (206) to form a fuel mixture (166); determining, via one or more sensors (110, 112, 114, 146), a measured interchangeability index of the fuel mixture (166), the interchangeability index being one of a measured Warburg index of the fuel mixture (166) or a measured modified Warburg index of the fuel mixture (166); comparing the measured interchangeability index with a predetermined interchangeability index; adjusting, via the fuel supply system (100), one or more parameters of at least one of the at least two fuels (105) based on the comparison between the measured interchangeability index and the predetermined interchangeability index; and providing the fuel mixture (166) to the combustion system (302).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present disclosure relates generally to systems and methods for blending multiple fuels. In particular, the present disclosure relates to systems and methods for blending two or more fuels for use in a combustion system. BACKGROUND

[0002] Turbomachines are used for energy transfer purposes in a variety of industries and applications. For example, a gas turbine engine generally includes a compressor section, a combustion section, a turbine section, and an exhaust section. The compressor section progressively increases the pressure of a working fluid entering the gas turbine engine and supplies the compressed working fluid to the combustion section. The compressed working fluid and a fuel are mixed within the combustion section and combusted in a combustion chamber to generate high pressure and high temperature combustion gases. The combustion gases flow from the combustion section into the turbine section where the combustion gases expand to do work. For example, the expansion of the combustion gases in the turbine section can cause a rotor shaft connected to, for example, an electrical generator to rotate to produce electrical power. The combustion gases then exit the gas turbine via the exhaust section. SUMMARY

[0003] Aspects and advantages of the systems and methods for blending multiple fuels according to the present disclosure will be set forth in part in the following description, or can be apparent from the description, or can be learned through practice of the technology.

[0004] According to one embodiment, a method of blending at least two fuels is provided. The method includes: providing, via a fuel supply system, at least two fuels to a helical static mixer, the fuel supply system including a fuel supply circuit for each of the at least two fuels; mixing, via a plurality of helical structures of the helical static mixer, the at least two fuels to form a fuel mixture; determining, via one or more sensors, a measured interchangeability index of the fuel mixture, the interchangeability index being one of a measured Wobbe index of the fuel mixture or a measured modified Wobbe index of the fuel mixture; comparing the measured interchangeability index to a predetermined interchangeability index; adjusting, via the fuel supply system, one or more parameters of at least one of the at least two fuels based on the comparison between the measured interchangeability index and the predetermined interchangeability index; and providing the fuel mixture to a combustion system.

[0005] According to another embodiment, a system for blending at least two fuels is provided. The system includes: a combustion system; a helical static mixer including a plurality of helical structures; a fuel supply system for supplying at least two fuels to the helical static mixer and the combustion system, the fuel supply system including a fuel supply loop for each of the at least two fuels; one or more sensors operably connected to the fuel supply system; a controller operably connected to the fuel supply system, the helical static mixer, and the one or more sensors, the controller including the controller including a memory storing instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, cause the system to perform one or more operations, the one or more operations including: providing at least two fuels to the helical static mixer via a fuel supply system; mixing the at least two fuels via the plurality of helical structures of the helical static mixer to form a fuel mixture; determining a measured interchangeability index of the fuel mixture via one or more sensors, the interchangeability index being one of a measured Wobbe index of the fuel mixture or a measured modified Wobbe index of the fuel mixture; comparing the measured interchangeability index to a predetermined interchangeability index; adjusting one or more parameters of at least one of the at least two fuels via the fuel supply system based on the comparison between the measured interchangeability index and the predetermined interchangeability index; and providing the fuel mixture to the combustion system.

[0006] According to one embodiment, a method of blending at least two fuels is provided. The method includes: providing at least two fuels to a mixing chamber via a fuel supply system, the fuel supply system including a fuel supply loop for each of the at least two fuels; mixing the at least two fuels via vanes of the mixing chamber to form a fuel mixture; determining a measured interchangeability index of the fuel mixture via one or more sensors, the interchangeability index being one of a measured Wobbe index of the fuel mixture or a measured modified Wobbe index of the fuel mixture; comparing the measured interchangeability index to a predetermined interchangeability index; adjusting one or more parameters of at least one of the at least two fuels via the fuel supply system based on the comparison between the measured interchangeability index and the predetermined interchangeability index; and providing the fuel mixture to a combustion system.

[0007] According to another embodiment, a system for blending at least two fuels is provided. The system comprises: a combustion system; a mixing chamber comprising a plurality of vanes; a fuel supply system for supplying at least two fuels to the mixing chamber and the combustion system, the fuel supply system comprising a fuel supply circuit for each of the at least two fuels; one or more sensors operably connected to the fuel supply system; a controller operably connected to the fuel supply system, the mixing chamber, and the one or more sensors, the controller comprising a memory storing instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, cause the system to perform one or more operations comprising: providing at least two fuels to the mixing chamber via the fuel supply system; mixing the at least two fuels via the mixing chamber to form a fuel mixture; determining a measured interchangeability index of the fuel mixture via the one or more sensors, the interchangeability index being one of a measured Wobbe index of the fuel mixture or a measured modified Wobbe index of the fuel mixture; comparing the measured interchangeability index to a predetermined interchangeability index; adjusting one or more parameters of at least one of the at least two fuels via the fuel supply system based on the comparison between the measured interchangeability index and the predetermined interchangeability index; and providing the fuel mixture to the combustion system.

[0008] According to one embodiment, a method of blending at least two fuels is provided. The method comprises: providing at least two fuels to an injector via a fuel supply system, the fuel supply system comprising a fuel supply circuit for each of the at least two fuels; mixing the at least two fuels via a diffuser of the injector to form a fuel mixture; determining a measured interchangeability index of the fuel mixture via one or more sensors, the interchangeability index being one of a measured Wobbe index of the fuel mixture or a measured modified Wobbe index of the fuel mixture; comparing the measured interchangeability index to a predetermined interchangeability index; adjusting one or more parameters of at least one of the at least two fuels via the fuel supply system based on the comparison between the measured interchangeability index and the predetermined interchangeability index; and providing the fuel mixture to a combustion system.

[0009] According to another embodiment, a system for blending at least two fuels is provided. The system includes: a combustion system; an injector including a motive inlet, a suction inlet, and a diffuser; a fuel supply system for supplying at least two fuels to the injector and the combustion system, the fuel supply system including a fuel supply loop for each of the at least two fuels; one or more sensors operably connected to the fuel supply system; a controller operably connected to the fuel supply system, the injector, and the one or more sensors, the controller including the controller including a memory storing instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, cause the system to perform one or more operations, the one or more operations including: providing at least two fuels to the injector via a fuel supply system; mixing the at least two fuels from the motive inlet and the suction inlet via the diffuser of the injector to form a fuel mixture; determining a measured interchangeability index of the fuel mixture via one or more sensors, the interchangeability index being one of a measured Wobbe index of the fuel mixture or a measured modified Wobbe index of the fuel mixture; comparing the measured interchangeability index to a predetermined interchangeability index; adjusting one or more parameters of at least one of the at least two fuels via the fuel supply system based on the comparison between the measured interchangeability index and the predetermined interchangeability index; and providing the fuel mixture to the combustion system.

[0010] According to one embodiment, a method of blending at least two fuels is provided. The method includes: providing at least two fuels to a cyclonic mixer via a fuel supply system, the fuel supply system including a fuel supply loop for each of the at least two fuels; mixing the at least two fuels via at least one vortex formed in the cyclonic mixer to form a fuel mixture; determining a measured interchangeability index of the fuel mixture via one or more sensors, the interchangeability index being one of a measured Wobbe index of the fuel mixture or a measured modified Wobbe index of the fuel mixture; comparing the measured interchangeability index to a predetermined interchangeability index; adjusting one or more parameters of at least one of the at least two fuels via the fuel supply system based on the comparison between the measured interchangeability index and the predetermined interchangeability index; and providing the fuel mixture to a combustion system.

[0011] According to another embodiment, a system for blending at least two fuels is provided. The system includes: a combustion system; a cyclonic mixer; a fuel supply system for supplying at least two fuels to the cyclonic mixer and the combustion system, the fuel supply system including a fuel supply loop for each of the at least two fuels; one or more sensors operably connected to the fuel supply system; a controller operably connected to the fuel supply system, the cyclonic mixer, and the one or more sensors, the controller including the controller including a memory storing instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, cause the system to perform one or more operations, the one or more operations including: providing at least two fuels to the cyclonic mixer via a fuel supply system; mixing the at least two fuels via at least one vortex formed in the cyclonic mixer to form a fuel mixture; determining, via one or more sensors, a measured interchangeability index of the fuel mixture, the interchangeability index being one of a measured Wobbe index of the fuel mixture or a measured modified Wobbe index of the fuel mixture; comparing the measured interchangeability index to a predetermined interchangeability index; adjusting one or more parameters of at least one of the at least two fuels via the fuel supply system based on the comparison between the measured interchangeability index and the predetermined interchangeability index; and providing the fuel mixture to the combustion system.

[0012] According to one embodiment, a method of blending at least two fuels is provided. The method includes: providing at least two fuels to a first mixing module via a fuel supply system, the fuel supply system including a fuel supply loop for each of the at least two fuels; mixing the at least two fuels via the first mixing module to form an initial fuel mixture; providing the initial fuel mixture to a second mixing module; mixing the initial fuel mixture via the second mixing module to form a fuel mixture; determining, via one or more sensors, a measured interchangeability index of the fuel mixture, the interchangeability index being one of a measured Wobbe index of the fuel mixture or a measured modified Wobbe index of the fuel mixture; comparing the measured interchangeability index to a predetermined interchangeability index; adjusting one or more parameters of at least one of the at least two fuels via the fuel supply system based on the comparison between the measured interchangeability index and the predetermined interchangeability index; and providing the fuel mixture to a combustion system.

[0013] According to another embodiment, a system for blending at least two fuels is provided. The system includes: a combustion system; a first mixing module; a second mixing module; a fuel supply system for supplying at least two fuels to the first mixing module, the second mixing module, and the combustion system, the fuel supply system including a fuel supply circuit for each of the at least two fuels; one or more sensors operably connected to the fuel supply system; a controller operably connected to the fuel supply system, the first mixing module, the second mixing module, and the one or more sensors, the controller including the controller including a memory storing instructions that, when executed by one or more processors, cause the system to perform one or more operations, the one or more operations including: providing the at least two fuels to the first mixing module via the fuel supply system; mixing the at least two fuels via the first mixing module to form an initial fuel mixture; providing the initial fuel mixture to the second mixing module; mixing the fuel mixture via the second mixing module to form a fuel mixture; determining, via the one or more sensors, a measured interchangeability index of the fuel mixture, the interchangeability index being one of a measured Wobbe index of the fuel mixture or a measured modified Wobbe index of the fuel mixture; comparing the measured interchangeability index to a predetermined interchangeability index; adjusting one or more parameters of at least one of the at least two fuels via the fuel supply system based on the comparison between the measured interchangeability index and the predetermined interchangeability index; and providing the fuel mixture to the combustion system.

[0014] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the systems and methods of blending two or more fuels of the present disclosure will become better understood with reference to the following description and appended claims. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the technology of the present disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the technology of the present disclosure. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0015] The complete and enabling disclosure of the systems and methods of blending multiple fuels of the present disclosure, including the best mode thereof, directed to those of ordinary skill in the art in this field of technology is set forth in this specification, which includes claims, and which is accompanied by at least one drawing, in which:

[0016] Figure 1 is a schematic illustration of a system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0017] Figure 2 is a schematic illustration of a fuel supply system and mixing modules for blending multiple fuels according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0018] Figure 3 An illustration of a fuel supply system having multiple mixing modules is illustrated;

[0019] Figure 4 An illustration of a fuel supply system and mixing modules for blending multiple fuels according to embodiments of the disclosure is illustrated;

[0020] Figure 5 An enlarged view of a mixing module is illustrated;

[0021] Figure 6 Multiple mixing modules are illustrated;

[0022] Figure 7 An illustration of a fuel supply system and mixing modules for blending multiple fuels according to embodiments of the disclosure is illustrated;

[0023] Figure 8 An enlarged view of a mixing module is illustrated;

[0024] Figure 9 An illustration of a fuel supply system having multiple mixing modules is illustrated;

[0025] Figure 10 An illustration of a fuel supply system and mixing modules for blending multiple fuels according to embodiments of the disclosure is illustrated;

[0026] Figure 11 An enlarged view of a mixing module is illustrated;

[0027] Figure 12 An illustration of a fuel supply system having multiple different mixing modules in a series configuration is illustrated;

[0028] Figure 13 An illustration of a fuel supply system having multiple different mixing modules in a parallel configuration is illustrated;

[0029] Figure 14 A flowchart of a method for blending multiple fuels according to embodiments of the disclosure is illustrated; and

[0030] Figure 15 A block diagram of a computing system for implementing one or more aspects of the disclosure according to example embodiments of the disclosure is illustrated. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0031] Reference will now be made in detail to embodiments of the present inventive system and method for blending multiple fuels, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the present inventive technology and is not meant as a limitation of the present inventive technology. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that modifications and variations to the present inventive technology can be made without departing from the scope or spirit of the present inventive technology. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment, can be used with another embodiment to yield still a further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that this disclosure cover such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

[0032] The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any implementation described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other implementations. Unless specifically indicated otherwise, all embodiments described herein are to be considered exemplary.

[0033] The DETAILED DESCRIPTION uses digital and letter designations to refer to features in the drawings. Like or similar designations in the drawings and description have been used to refer to like or similar parts of the present application. As used herein, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third” can be used interchangeably to distinguish one component from another and are not meant to signify location or importance of the individual components.

[0034] The term “fluid” can be a gas or a liquid. The term “fluid communication” means that a fluid is able to connect between designated areas.

[0035] As used herein, the terms “upstream” (or “up”) and “downstream” (or “down”) refer to the relative direction with respect to the flow of fluid in a fluid pathway. For example, “upstream” refers to the direction from which fluid flows, and “downstream” refers to the direction to which fluid flows. However, the terms “upstream” and “downstream” as used herein can also refer to electrical current. The term “radially” refers to a relative direction substantially perpendicular to an axial centerline of a particular component, the term “axially” refers to a relative direction substantially parallel and / or coaxially aligned with an axial centerline of a particular component, and the term “circumferentially” refers to a relative direction extending around an axial centerline of a particular component.

[0036] Terms having the meaning of approximation, such as “about,” “approximately,” “substantially,” and “essentially,” are not limited to the precise value specified. In at least some instances, the language of approximation can correspond to the precision of an instrument used to measure a value, or the precision of a method or machine used to construct or manufacture a component and / or system. In at least some instances, the language of approximation can correspond to the precision of an instrument used to measure a value, or the precision of a method or machine used to construct or manufacture a component and / or system. For example, the language of approximation can refer to a tolerance within 1%, 2%, 4%, 5%, 10%, 15%, or 20% in an individual value, a range of values, and / or an end value of a range of values. When used in the context of an angle or direction, such terms include directions that are within ten degrees greater or less than the stated angle or direction. For example, “generally vertical” includes directions that are within ten degrees of vertical in either direction (e.g., clockwise or counterclockwise).

[0037] Unless otherwise stated herein, the terms “coupled,” “fixed,” “attached to,” and the like, mean directly coupled, fixed, or attached, and also indirectly coupled, fixed, or attached, through one or more intermediary components or features. As used herein, the terms “comprises,” “comprising,” “has,” “having,” “includes,” “including,” “contains,” “containing,” or any other variation thereof, are intended to cover a non-exclusive inclusion. For example, a process, method, article, or apparatus that comprises a list of features is not necessarily limited only to those features but can include other features not expressly listed or inherent to such process, method, article, or apparatus. Further, unless expressly stated to the contrary, “or” refers to an inclusive or and not to an exclusive or. For example, a condition A or B is satisfied by any one of the following: A is true (or present) and B is false (or not present); A is false (or not present) and B is true (or present); and both A and B are true (or present).

[0038] As used herein, the “heat value” of a fuel is an upper limit of usable heat energy produced by complete combustion of the fuel, measured in energy units per unit mass or volume. The “high heat value” is the total amount of heat energy produced including the energy used to vaporize water produced during the combustion reaction (also referred to as the “gross heat value”), and the “low heat value” is the total amount of heat energy produced excluding the energy used to vaporize water produced during the combustion reaction (also referred to as the “net heat value”).

[0039] The “specific gravity” of a fuel is the ratio of the density of the fuel to the density of air at standard temperature and pressure conditions (273.15 Kelvin, 10,000 Pascals).

[0040] Throughout this document and in the claims, range limitations are combined and interchanged, such ranges are identified and include all the sub-ranges contained therein, unless context or language indicates otherwise. For example, all ranges disclosed herein are inclusive of the endpoints, and the endpoints are independently combinable with each other.

[0041] As used herein, the term "line" can refer to a pipe, hose, tube, or other fluid-carrying conduit.

[0042] In this context, two components are "in series" when they are arranged in a sequential manner, such as when a second component is located downstream of a first component to receive fluid from the first component. Two components are "in parallel" when they are arranged at the same location to receive fluid from a common source and do not share the fluid between them.

[0043] Referring now to the drawings, Figure 1 A schematic diagram of one embodiment of a system 300 for blending at least two fuels 105, which can then be provided to a combustion system 302, is illustrated. The system 300 can include a combustion system 302 and a fuel supply system 100 fluidly connected to the combustion system 302. In the illustrated embodiment, the combustion system 302 is a combustion section of a gas turbine 10. However, in other embodiments, the combustion system 302 can be an internal combustion engine, a jet engine, an aircraft engine, a combustor, a dry low NOx combustor, or other combustion system. Additionally, while an industrial or land-based gas turbine is shown and described herein, the present disclosure is not limited to land-based and / or industrial gas turbines, unless otherwise specified in the claims. For example, the present invention as described herein can be used in any type of turbomachinery, including but not limited to an aircraft gas turbine or a marine gas turbine.

[0044] As shown, the gas turbine 10 generally includes an inlet section 12, a compressor section 14 disposed downstream of the inlet section 12, a plurality of combustors (not shown) within a combustor section 16 disposed downstream of the compressor section 14, a turbine section 18 disposed downstream of the combustor section 16, and an exhaust section 20 disposed downstream of the turbine section 18. Additionally, the gas turbine 10 can include one or more shafts 22 coupled between the compressor section 14 and the turbine section 18.

[0045] The compressor section 14 can generally include a plurality of rotor disks 24 (one of which is shown) and a plurality of rotor blades 44 extending radially outward from and connected to each rotor disk 24. Each rotor disk 24 can in turn be coupled to or form a portion of the shaft 22 extending through the compressor section 14. The compressor section 14 can also include one or more stator vanes 50 arranged circumferentially about the shaft 22. The stator vanes 27 can be fixed to a compressor casing or static casing 48 extending circumferentially about the rotor blades 44.

[0046] The turbine section 18 can generally include a plurality of rotor disks 28 (one of which is shown) and a plurality of rotor blades 30 extending radially outward from and interconnected to each rotor disk 28. Each rotor disk 28 can in turn be coupled to or form a portion of the shaft 22 extending through the turbine section 18.

[0047] During operation, a working fluid, such as air, flows through the inlet section 12 and into the compressor section 14, where the air is progressively compressed, providing pressurized air to the combustors of the compressor section 16. The pressurized air is mixed with fuel and combusted within each combustor to produce combustion gases 34. The combustion gases 34 flow from the combustor section 16 through the hot gas path 32 into the turbine section 18, where energy (kinetic and / or thermal) is transferred from the combustion gases 34 to the rotor blades 30, causing the shaft 22 to rotate. The mechanical rotational energy can then be used to power the compressor section 14 and / or to generate electricity. The combustion gases 34 exiting the turbine section 18 can then be exhausted from the gas turbine 10 via the exhaust section 20. The exhaust gases can be provided to an exhaust stack 40, which can discharge the gases into the atmosphere.

[0048] The fuel supply system 100 can supply or provide at least two fuels 105 to the mixing module 104 (and subsequently to the gas turbine 10). For example, the fuel supply system 100 can include a first fuel supply end 106A (for supplying a first fuel F A ), a second fuel supply end 106B (for supplying a second fuel F B ), a third fuel supply end 106C (for supplying a third fuel F C ), and a fourth fuel supply end 106D (for supplying a fourth fuel F D ). Each of the at least two fuels 105 can be different from one another (i.e., have different chemical compositions). The fuels can include, but are not limited to, natural gas, ammonia, hydrogen, or other fuels. Additionally, the fuel supply system 100 can supply other fluids, such as exhaust gases from an exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system (not shown). Although Figure 1 The illustrated embodiment includes four fuels, but the fuel supply system 100 should not be limited to any particular number of fuels, unless specifically indicated in the claims. In other embodiments, the fuel supply system can include any number of fuels.

[0049] In the example embodiment, the fuel supply system 100 can include a plurality of fuel supply circuits 102A, 102B, 102C, 102D for providing each of the at least two fuels 105 to the mixing module 104, respectively. As discussed in greater detail below, each of the fuel supply circuits 102A, 102B, 102C, 102D can have the same or similar configuration.

[0050] The mixing module 104 can be fluidly coupled to each of the fuel supply circuits 102A, 102B, 102C, 102D. The mixing module 104 can blend at least two fuels 105 together to produce a homogeneous fuel mixture. The homogeneous fuel mixture can be provided to the combustion system 302 via an outlet line 108. The outlet line 108 can extend from the mixing module 104 to the combustion system 302, for example, to the combustion section 16 of the gas turbine 10.

[0051] In various embodiments, as shown, one or more sensors can be operably connected to the fuel supply system 100. The one or more sensors can include a first Wobbe index sensor 110, a second Wobbe index sensor 112, and a flow rate sensor 114. The Wobbe index sensors 110, 112 can be configured to sense data indicative of the Wobbe index of the fuel mixture (i.e., the measured Wobbe index). It should be understood that the Wobbe index is a measure of interchangeability, i.e., an “interchangeability index,” for evaluating different fuels (or fuel mixtures). The Wobbe index (WI) is calculated as follows: Figure 1

[0052]

[0053] where LHV is the lower heating value of the fuel, and SG is the specific gravity of the fuel. The Wobbe index helps to determine whether the first fuel (or first fuel mixture) can be substituted for the second fuel (or second fuel mixture). The flow rate sensor 114 can be configured to sense data indicative of the flow rate of the fuel mixture within the outlet line 108.

[0054] Additionally or alternatively, the Wobbe index sensors 110, 112 can be configured to sense data indicative of the Modified Wobbe Index (MWI) of the fuel mixture:

[0055]

[0056] where T g is the temperature of the fuel. The Modified Wobbe Index is another measure that helps to determine whether the first fuel (or first fuel mixture) can be substituted for the second fuel (or second fuel mixture). That is, the interchangeability index can be either the Wobbe Index or the Modified Wobbe Index.

[0057] The system 300 can also include a controller 400 that is operably connected to the one or more sensors to receive data from the sensors and determine various operational parameters of the system 300. In particular, the controller 400 can be operably connected to the fuel supply system 100 (including each component on the fuel supply circuits 102A, 102B, 102C, 102D), the mixing module 104, and the one or more sensors 110, 112, 114. As referenced above, the controller 400 can be configured to receive data from the one or more sensors 110, 112, 114 and determine whether the first fuel (or first fuel mixture) can be substituted for the second fuel (or second fuel mixture) based on the data received from the one or more sensors 110, 112, 114. Figure 14 ​In more detail, the controller 400 may include a memory and one or more processors. The memory may instruct, when executed by one or more processors, that the system 300 may perform one or more operations, which may include: providing at least two fuels 105 to the mixing module 104; mixing the at least two fuels with the mixing module 104; determining a measured interchangeability index of the fuel mixture via Warburg index sensors 110, 112; comparing the measured interchangeability index with a predetermined interchangeability index; adjusting one or more parameters of at least one of the at least two fuels 105; and providing the fuel mixture to the combustion system 302.

[0058] For example, based on a comparison between a measured interchangeability index and a predetermined interchangeability index, controller 400 may instruct system 300 to adjust the quantity, temperature, pressure, or flow rate of each of the at least two fuels supplied to mixing module 104 (thus adjusting the fuel mixture) so that the measured interchangeability index tends toward the predetermined interchangeability index. The predetermined interchangeability index is selected based on one or more factors for improving the operation of the gas turbine engine, such as the efficiency requirements of gas turbine 10, combustion dynamics (including resonant sound pressure pulses), etc. For example, a fuel mixture having an interchangeability index equal to the predetermined interchangeability index may be the fuel mixture that causes the gas turbine 10 to operate at the highest efficiency compared to other fuel mixtures.

[0059] like Figure 1 As shown, system 300 may further include a heat exchanger 116 thermally connected to outlet line 108, located downstream of the first Warburg index sensor 110 and flow rate sensor 114 and upstream of the second Warburg index sensor 112 relative to the flow of the fuel mixture through outlet line 108. Heat exchanger 116 can regulate the temperature of the fuel mixture within outlet line 108 by transferring heat between the hot fluid and the fuel mixture. For example, heat exchanger 116 may be fluidly connected to hot fluid supply end 118 via inlet line 119 and fluidly connected to hot fluid return end 120 via outlet line 121. Additionally, valve 122 may be fluidly connected to inlet line 119. Valve 122 may be operatively connected to controller 400 and actuated between an open position (where flow is permitted) and a closed position (where flow is restricted or completely blocked). Based on a comparison between the measured interchangeability index and a predetermined interchangeability index, the controller can adjust the position of valve 122, thereby adjusting the heat transfer rate between the hot fluid and the fuel mixture, which in turn adjusts the temperature of the fuel mixture so that the measured interchangeability index tends to the predetermined interchangeability index.

[0060] In various embodiments, the fuel supply system 100 can also include a gaseous fuel module 124. The gaseous fuel module 124 can include one or more pumps, pressure regulators, valves, manifolds, and / or fluid conduits for supplying the fuel mixture to the combustor section 16 of the gas turbine 10. The gaseous fuel module 124 can be disposed on the outlet line 108 downstream of the second Wobbe index sensor and the heat exchanger 116 and upstream (e.g., directly upstream) of the combustion section 16.

[0061] Referring now to Figures 2 to 12 various embodiments of the fuel supply system 100 (which includes the fuel supply circuit 102) and the mixing module 104 are illustrated. In particular, Figures 2 to 12 details of the first fuel supply circuit 102A are illustrated, which details can also be implemented in the other fuel supply circuits 102B, 102C, 102D. For example, while details of the first fuel supply circuit 102A are illustrated in the figures, it should be understood that each of the other fuel supply circuits 102B, 102C, 102D can have the same or similar construction as the first fuel supply circuit 102A.

[0062] As shown, the fuel supply circuits 102A, 102B, 102C, 102D can each include a main fuel supply line 126A, 126B, 126C, 126D extending from the respective fuel supply end 106A, 106B, 106C, 106D to the mixing module 104. As shown, the fuel supply circuit 102 can include an electric heater 128 disposed in thermal communication on the main fuel supply line 126A immediately downstream of the first fuel supply end 106A. The electric heater 128 can change the temperature of the first fuel F A in the main fuel supply line 126A. The electric heater 128 can be electrically connected to a power source 130.

[0063] In many embodiments, a recirculation line 132 can extend from an inlet 134 on the main fuel supply line 126 to an outlet 136 on the main fuel supply line 126. The outlet 136 can be located upstream of the inlet 134 with respect to the flow of fuel through the main fuel supply line 126. The recirculation line 132 can be disposed downstream of the electric heater 128. In many embodiments, a control valve 138 can be disposed in fluid communication on the main fuel supply line 126 between the inlet 134 and the outlet 136 of the recirculation line 132.

[0064] The fuel supply circuit 102 can include an atmospheric vent line 140 extending from the main fuel supply line 126. The atmospheric vent line 140 can vent fuel from the fuel supply line 126A for maintenance activities. For example, if maintenance is required on one or more components of the fuel supply system 100, the vent line 140 can purge any remaining fuel from the main fuel supply line 126 so that the maintenance activities can be safely performed. In various embodiments, a control valve 142 can be disposed in fluid communication on the vent line 140.

[0065] The fuel supply circuit 102 can also include a control valve 144 downstream of the inlet 134 of the recirculation line 132. The control valves 138, 142, 144 can control the amount of fuel allowed to flow through the main fuel supply line 126, thereby controlling the amount of fuel recirculated through the recirculation line 132. Each of the control valves 138, 142, 144 can be adjusted (e.g., by the controller 400) between a fully open (e.g., 100% open) position, a partially open (e.g., between 0% open and 100% open) position, and a fully closed (e.g., 0% open) position. By adjusting the control valves 138, 142, 144, a desired amount and flow rate of the first fuel F A through the fuel supply circuit 102 can be achieved.

[0066] One or more sensors 146 can be disposed on the main fuel supply line 126A for sensing data indicative of one or more parameters of the first fuel F A . The one or more sensors 146 can include a flow rate sensor 148 configured to sense data indicative of a flow rate of the first fuel through the main fuel supply line 126A. The controller 400 can adjust one or more of the valves 138, 142, 144 based on the data indicative of the flow rate from the flow rate sensor 146. Additionally, the one or more sensors 146 can include a third Wobbe index sensor 150 that can be configured to sense data indicative of an interchangeability index of the first fuel F A . Furthermore, the one or more sensors 146 can include a pressure sensor 152 that can sense data indicative of a pressure of the first fuel F A .

[0067] Each of the one or more sensors 146 can be operatively connected to the controller 400. Based on the data provided by the one or more sensors 146 (e.g., data indicative of the flow rate, data indicative of the interchangeability index, and / or data indicative of the pressure), the controller can adjust one or more of the control valves 138, 142, 144 to adjust the first fuel F AThe flow rate. Additionally, based on data provided by one or more sensors 146, the controller 400 can adjust the operation of the electric heater 128 to change (e.g., increase or decrease) the first fuel F. A The temperature.

[0068] The fuel supply circuit 102 may also include a safety shut-off valve (SSOV) 154. The SSOV 154 can prevent fuel from flowing into the fuel supply terminal in the event of a failure of one or more of the control valves 138, 142, and 144. For example, if the controller 400 determines a rapid increase in flow rate based on data provided by the flow rate sensor 148, the SSOV 154 can engage and prevent fuel from being supplied to the mixing module 104. Additionally, the fuel supply circuit 102 may include a first master control valve (MCV) 156 and a second MCV 158, which can be provided as additional safety measures (since the fuel supplied to the mixing chamber is typically at very high pressure) and for measuring and controlling fuel volume. The first MCV 156 may be a stop proportional valve, and the second MCV 158 may be a gas control valve. Both the first MCV 156 and the second MCV 158 may be electrically operated valves.

[0069] At least two types of fuel 105 may be supplied to a mixing module 104, which may be different in each of the illustrated embodiments. The at least two types of fuel 105 may be mixed or blended together within the mixing module 104 to produce a fuel mixture 166, which may be supplied to a combustion system 302 via an outlet line 108. Figure 1 ).

[0070] like Figure 2 As shown, in some embodiments, the mixing module 104 may be a helical static mixer 160. The helical static mixer 160 may include a housing 162 and a helical structure 164, the housing defining a chamber 163 in which the helical structure is disposed. The helical structure 164 may be a fin, a torsion blade, a spoiler, a guide vane, a guide vane, or other structure within the chamber, for facilitating the mixing of at least two fuels into a fuel mixture 166. Figure 2The helical structure 164 of the helical static mixer 160 is a plurality of helical vanes arranged to cause a change in the flow of the fuel 105. More specifically, a first helical vane 164A can cause the flow of the fuel to rotate in a first direction, and an adjacent helical vane 164B can change the direction of the flow to a second direction that is different from the first direction. In particular, the second direction can be a direction that is opposite or inverse to the first direction, and the fuel 105 is able to bounce back and forth between the first and second directions with a pre-post motion, which enhances the mixing of the fuel 105. Additionally, the helical vanes 164 allow the fuel 105 to move radially from the center of the helical static mixer 160 to the outer edge of the helical static mixer 160, further enhancing the mixing between the fuel 105.

[0071] Referring now to Figure 3 , the fuel supply system 100 can include a plurality of helical static mixers 160. Figure 3 Three helical static mixers 160 are shown, including a first helical static mixer 160A, a second helical static mixer 160B, and a third helical static mixer 160C (collectively referred to as “helical static mixers 160”) arranged in series, such that the fuel 105 flows sequentially from the first helical static mixer 160A to the second helical static mixer 160B, and then to the third helical static mixer 160C. By arranging the helical static mixers 160 in series, each of the helical static mixers can further mix the fuel, such that the fuel mixture 166 is homogeneous once it exits the third helical static mixer 160C.

[0072] Figure 3 Fuel F A , F B , F C , F D is shown being provided to the first helical static mixer 160A at different points to form the fuel mixture 166. A , F B Fuel F A , F B may be supplied to the first helical static mixer 160A to form a first fuel mixture 166A, then fuel F C may be supplied to the second helical static mixer 160B with the first fuel mixture 166A to form a second fuel mixture 166B, and then fuel F D may be supplied to the third helical static mixer 160C with the second fuel mixture 166B to form the fuel mixture 166. It should be understood that other combinations of fuels 105 can be provided to different ones of the helical static mixers 160 to provide a suitable fuel mixture 166.

[0073] Alternatively, Figure 3 two or more of the helical static mixers 160 in the mixing module 104 can be arranged in parallel, rather than in series, and the last helical static mixer 160 can be in fluid communication with the parallel helical static mixers 160 to form the fuel mixture 166. In such a form, some of the fuel 105 can be supplied to the parallel helical static mixers 160 to form an initial fuel mixture, and the last helical static mixer 160 can mix the initial fuel mixture into the fuel mixture 166. Such an arrangement allows fuel 105 that is mixed together sufficiently to be mixed into an initial fuel mixture, improving the overall mixing of the fuel 105 to form the fuel mixture 166 in the last helical static mixer 160.

[0074] Referring now to Figures 4 to 6 , a fuel supply system 100' is shown. In the fuel supply system 100', the mixing module 104 is a mixing chamber 168. Specifically, Figure 4 a fuel supply system 100' is shown having mixing chambers 168, Figure 5 is an enlarged view of a mixing chamber 168, and Figure 6 shows multiple mixing chambers 168 arranged in a parallel configuration to form a fuel mixture 166.

[0075] As Figure 4 shown, the mixing chamber 168 can include a container or housing 170 that defines a chamber 172. Two or more of the fuels F A , F B , F C , F D may be provided to the chamber 172, where the fuels 105 are mixed together to form the fuel mixture 166. The fuel mixture 166 is then provided to the combustion system (not shown) via the outlet line 108. Figure 1

[0076] Referring now to Figure 5 ​The housing 170 includes a plurality of inlets 174 and an outlet 176, and is provided with a flow breaker plate 178 and a plurality of flow breaker plates 180 in the chamber 172 to mix the fuel 105. Specifically, one or more of the main fuel supply lines 126A, 126B, 126C, 126D can be in fluid communication with one of the plurality of inlets 174 to provide one of the fuels 105 to the mixing chamber 168. The plurality of inlets 174 provide the fuel 105 to the flow breaker plate 178, which includes a plurality of orifices 182 through which the fuel 105 is pushed, creating individual streams of the fuel 105 that enter the chamber 172. The fuel 105 then reaches the flow breaker plates 180, which cause the individual streams to bounce in different directions, thereby mixing the streams together. By pushing the fuel 105 in different directions, the flow breaker plates 180 cause the flow of the fuel 105 to merge with one another, ultimately forming a homogeneous fuel mixture 166 that exits the outlet 176.

[0077] Referring now to Figure 6 three mixing chambers 168A, 168B, 168C (collectively, “mixing chambers 168”) are shown. It should be understood that common components will have a suffix corresponding to their respective mixing chamber; that is, the first mixing chamber 168A includes a first housing 170A, a first chamber 172A, a first inlet 174A, a first outlet 176A, a first flow breaker plate 178A, a first flow breaker plate 180A, and first orifices 182A for the first flow breaker plate 178A. The second mixing chamber 168B has similar components with a suffix “-B,” and the third mixing chamber 168C has similar components with a suffix “-C.”

[0078] The mixing chambers 168 are arranged in a parallel configuration. Specifically, the first mixing chamber 168A and the second mixing chamber 168B are arranged such that the fuel 105 enters their respective inlets 174A independently of one another. In the example of Figure 6 the first fuel 105A and the second fuel 105B are provided to the first inlet 174A of the first mixing chamber 168A, and the third fuel 105C and the fourth fuel 105D are provided to the second inlet 174B of the second mixing chamber 168B. Upon mixing, the first fuel mixture 166A from the first outlet 176A of the first mixing chamber 168A and the second fuel mixture 166B from the second outlet 176B of the second mixing chamber 168B are provided to the third inlet 174C of the third mixing chamber 168C. A fifth fuel 105E can be introduced to another one of the third inlets 174C. The third mixing chamber 168C mixes the first fuel mixture 166A and the second fuel mixture 166B (and optionally, the fifth fuel 105E) to form the homogeneous fuel mixture 166. It should be understood that the mixing chambers 168 can alternatively be arranged in a series configuration, not shown.

[0079] As shown in Figures 7 to 9 FIG. 1, the fuel supply system 100” illustrates the mixing module 104 as a solid particle gas separator and a cyclone mixer, referred to herein as a “cyclone mixer” 184. Referring to Figure 7 , the cyclone mixer 184 can include a housing 186 defining a chamber 188 into which each of the fuels F A , F B , F C , F D can be provided. A rotating cyclone (not shown) can be disposed within the chamber 188 to cause the fuels F A , F B , F C , F D to create a cyclonic flow within the chamber 188. The centrifugal force created by the cyclone can cause the solid particles 190 to separate from the fuels F A , F B , F C , F D while mixing the fuels F A , F B , F C , F D to form the fuel mixture 166. For example, the solid particles 190 can fall to the bottom of the cyclone 184 (e.g., by gravity), and the fuel mixture 166 can be provided from the top of the cyclone mixer 184.

[0080] Referring now Figure 8 , an enlarged view of the cyclone mixer 184 is shown. The housing 186 includes an inlet 192, a cylindrical portion 194, a gas outlet 196 extending from the cylindrical portion 194, a conical portion 198, and a particle outlet 200 extending from the conical portion 198. The cylindrical portion 194 and the conical portion 198 define the chamber 188 in which the fuels 105 create a vortex flow. More specifically, the cylindrical portion 194 is cylindrical, and when the fuels 105 enter through the inlet 192, the cylindrical shape of the cylindrical portion 194 causes the fuels 105 to flow into an outer vortex 202. The outer vortex 202 drives the solid particles 190 to the outer edge of the cylindrical portion 194, and the remaining fuels 105 travel inward to form an inner vortex 204. The solid particles 190 fall by gravity to the particle outlet 200, and the inner vortex 204 flows upward through the gas outlet 196, thereby forming the fuel mixture 166. The interaction between the inner vortex 204 and the outer vortex 202 causes the fuels 105 to mix such that the fuel mixture 166 exiting the gas outlet 196 is more thoroughly mixed than the fuels 105 entering through the inlet 192. In particular, the fuel mixture 166 exiting the gas outlet 196 can be homogenous.

[0081] Referring nowFigure 9 The plurality of cyclone mixers 184 can mix a plurality of fuels F A , F B , F C , F D into a fuel mixture 166. Figure 9 A first cyclone mixer 184A, a second cyclone mixer 184B, and a third cyclone mixer 184C (collectively, “cyclone mixers 184”) are shown. The first cyclone mixer 184A can mix two or more fuels in the fuels 105, such as fuels F A , F B into a first fuel mixture 166A, which is provided to the second cyclone mixer 184B. The second cyclone mixer 184B can mix the first fuel mixture 166A with another fuel or fuels in the fuels 105, such as fuels F C , to form a second fuel mixture 166B, which is provided to the third cyclone mixer 184C. The third cyclone mixer 184C can mix the second fuel mixture 166B with one or more fuels in the fuels 105, such as fuels F D , to form a homogeneous fuel mixture 166. It should be understood that the fuel supply system 100 can include a different number of cyclone mixers 184 to form the homogeneous fuel mixture 166 with a different number of fuels 105.

[0082] The plurality of cyclone mixers 184 can be arranged in series, as Figure 9 shown. Alternatively, Figure 9 not shown in FIGS. 1A-1C, two or more of the cyclone mixers 184 can be arranged in parallel, rather than in series, and a last cyclone mixer 184 can be in fluid communication with the parallel cyclone mixers 184 to form the fuel mixture 166.

[0083] Referring now to Figures 10 to 11 , the fuel supply system 100”’ shows the mixing module 104 as an eductor 206. Figure 10 A plurality of eductors 206 are shown arranged in a series configuration. The series of eductors 206 can include a first eductor 206A, a second eductor 206B, and a third eductor 206C arranged in series. Each eductor in the series of eductors 206 can be provided with two input streams of fuels 105, and can output a single stream of fuel as a mixture. For example, a first fuel F A and a second fuel F B may be provided as inputs to the first eductor 206A, and the first eductor 206A can provide a first fuel mixture 166A as an output. Similarly, the first fuel mixture 166A and a third fuel F Cmay be provided as input to the second injector 206B, and the second injector 206B can provide a second fuel mixture 166B as output. Further, the second fuel mixture 166B and the fourth fuel F D may be provided as input to the third injector 206C, and the third injector 206C can provide a final fuel mixture 166 as output. The fuel mixture 166 is then provided to the combustion system 102 via the outlet line 108. Figure 1

[0084] In Figure 10 , the injectors 206 are arranged in a series configuration. Alternatively, it should be understood that at least some of the injectors 206 can be arranged in a parallel configuration (not shown in Figure 10 ) before providing input to a last injector 206 that outputs the homogeneous fuel mixture 166.

[0085] Referring to Figure 11 , the injector 206 includes a motive inlet 208, a suction inlet 210, a converging nozzle 212, a diffuser 214, and a throat 216 connecting the converging nozzle 212 to the diffuser 214. The motive inlet 208 and the suction inlet 210 each receive at least one of the fuels 105. In particular, the fuel 105 provided to the motive inlet 208 is pressurized to drive the fuel 105 provided to the suction inlet 210 into the converging nozzle 212. In such a form, the momentum from the fuel 105 in the motive inlet 208 causes the pressure of the fuel 105 in the suction inlet 210 to decrease, causing additional fuel 105 to flow into the suction inlet 210. The converging nozzle 212 tapers inwardly toward the throat 216, such that the fuel 105 is compressed in the converging nozzle 212 and begins to mix. This compression decreases the pressure of the fuel 105 while increasing the velocity of the fuel 105. The diffuser 214 tapers outwardly from the throat 216, such that as the fuel 105 passes through the throat 216 into the diffuser 214, the fuel 105 expands, causing the velocity of the fuel 105 to decrease while the pressure of the fuel 105 increases. The change in velocity and pressure, known as the “Venturi effect,” enhances the mixing of the fuel 105, resulting in a homogeneous fuel mixture 166 exiting the diffuser 214.

[0086] Referring to Figures 12 to 13 , a fuel supply system 100”” is shown in which multiple different mixing modules 104 can be used to form the fuel mixture 166. Figure 12 A series of mixing modules 104 is shown. Figure 13 A parallel arrangement of some of the mixing modules 104 providing input to a single mixing module 104 that outputs the fuel mixture 166 is shown.

[0087] ​like Figure 12 As shown, each mixing module in mixing module 104 can be arranged in a series configuration. By arranging mixing modules 104 in series, additional fuel 105 can be introduced sequentially with sufficient time to mix into a mixture, which is then output as a homogeneous fuel mixture 166. Figure 12 The mixing module 104 is shown as a series of helical static mixers 160, cyclone mixers 184, injectors 206, and mixing chambers 168 arranged in series. Additionally, two fuels F A F B It is introduced into the spiral static mixer 160 to form a first fuel mixture 166A, which is mixed with a third fuel F C Together, they are fed into a cyclone mixer 184 to form a second fuel mixture 166B. Then, the second fuel mixture 166B is mixed with a fourth fuel F. D Together they are fed into injector 206 to form a third fuel mixture 166C, which is mixed with the fifth fuel F E Together, they are fed into mixing chamber 168 to form homogeneous fuel mixture 166. Based on the detected interchangeability index, any combination of fuel 105 and mixing module 104 can be adjusted to provide a specific composition of homogeneous fuel mixture 166.

[0088] See now Figure 13 A block diagram of multiple mixing modules 104 arranged in parallel is shown. Specifically, the mixing modules 104 are designated as individual blocks, 104A, 104B, 104C, and 104D, wherein mixing modules 104A, 104B, and 104C are arranged in parallel to provide a fuel mixture to mixing module 104D. Each of mixing modules 104A to 104D is one of a helical static mixer 160, a mixing chamber 168, a cyclone mixer 184, or an injector 206, and at least one of mixing modules 104A to 104D is of a different type from the others. Therefore, any combination of the helical static mixer 160, the mixing chamber 168, the cyclone mixer 184, and the injector 206 can be used to produce a homogeneous fuel mixture 166. Additionally, although in Figure 13 Four mixing modules 104 are shown, but it should be understood that any number of mixing modules 104 can be arranged in series, in parallel, or in combination to produce a homogeneous fuel mixture 166.

[0089] In addition to fuel 105, other fluids can be introduced into the mixing module 104 to reduce emissions such as nitrogen oxides (NOx). x And isolate / suppress CO and CO2. Generally speaking, reducing NO... xfluids are used as diluents that do not participate in the combustion reaction, absorb the heat generated by the combustion reaction, and lower the overall temperature of the combustion gases. Since the production of NO x is primarily driven by the temperature of the combustion gases, lowering this temperature reduces the overall amount of NO x in the exhaust gas. Example NO x reducing fluids include steam, liquid water, nitrogen, ammonia, and combinations thereof. In particular, when used in an EGR system, ammonia added to reduce the production of NO x in the exhaust gas can be recirculated for use as a fuel source. For CO and CO2control, the fuel mixture can be adjusted to be lean (reducing CO formation), can include non-carbon based fuels (generally reducing carbon-based emissions), spark timing can be adjusted to control combustion of the fuel mixture, or combinations of these techniques can be employed.

[0090] Additionally, other fluids can be introduced to the mixing module 104 for axial fuel staging (AFS), in which combustion is enhanced for active combustion power mitigation and control, such as adjusting the fuel / air ratio. AFS introduces fuel into the head end of the combustor through a dedicated fuel circuit, which enables axial staged combustion in two different zones, performing improvements at both base load and minimum turndown. Other AFS strategies include: combining fuels into a predetermined interchangeability index, utilizing active inlet power conditioning methods for emissions suppression and control, such as for NO x , CO, CO2, dynamically blending fuels, and utilizing ammonia NO x suppression techniques and capturing ammonia as a fuel (as described above) with EGR systems, and providing fuel for a ducted combustor or other internal combustion engine.

[0091] In addition to emissions control, AFS can also be used to control combustion dynamics. Specifically, when fuel burns, it can generate resonant acoustic pressure pulses and radiate to components. The pulses can interfere with combustion, such as by reflecting off the walls of the combustor, creating oscillations in the air / fuel mixture to cause instability in the local equivalence ratio, and amplifying resonant waves in future combustion. Providing fuel through AFS reduces the instability of fuel introduction, thereby reducing combustion dynamics and improving operation of the engine.

[0092] Referring now to Figure 14 , a flowchart illustrating one embodiment of a method 500 of blending at least two fuels in accordance with an embodiment of the inventive subject matter is illustrated. Generally, the method 500 will be described herein with reference to the system 300, gas turbine 10, controller 400, and fuel supply system 100 described above. However, one of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the disclosed method 500 can generally be used with any suitable system and / or can be used in conjunction with systems having any other suitable system configuration. Moreover, although the method 500 is described herein as being performed by the system 300, the controller 400, and / or the fuel supply system 100, one of ordinary skill in the art will understand that the method 500 can be performed by any suitable system and / or combination of systems.Figure 14 Steps are depicted in a particular order for the purposes of illustration and discussion, but the methods discussed herein are not limited to any particular order or arrangement, unless otherwise specified in the claims. Those skilled in the art will understand, using the disclosure provided herein, that the various steps of the methods disclosed herein can be omitted, rearranged, combined and / or adjusted in various ways without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure.

[0093] The method 500 can include, at (502), providing at least two fuels to a mixing module via a fuel supply system. The fuel supply system can include a fuel supply circuit for each of the at least two fuels. Each of the at least two fuels can be provided to the mixing module separately via a respective fuel supply circuit. The fuel supply circuit can modify an interchangeability index, such as a Wobbe index, of each individual fuel, thereby allowing the resulting fuel mixture to meet a desired interchangeability index or a predetermined interchangeability index.

[0094] The method 500 can further include, at (504), mixing via a mixing module of a fuel gas blending system. In various embodiments, the mixing module can be at least one of a helical static mixer, a mixing chamber, a solid particle cyclone gas separator mixer, or an eductor. The mixing at (504) can result in a formation of a fuel mixture.

[0095] In an example implementation, the method 500 can include, at (506), determining a measured interchangeability index of the fuel mixture via one or more sensors. Additionally, at (508), the method 500 can include comparing the measured interchangeability index to a predetermined interchangeability index. For example, if the measured interchangeability index of the fuel mixture is not within a predetermined margin (e.g., a 5-10% margin) of the predetermined interchangeability index, one or more parameters of each fuel can be adjusted to trend the measured interchangeability index toward the predetermined interchangeability index.

[0096] Specifically, method 500 may include, at (510), adjusting one or more parameters of at least one of the at least two fuels via the fuel supply system based on the comparison between the measured interchangeability index and the predetermined interchangeability index. The one or more parameters include at least one of pressure, temperature, quantity, and flow rate. For example, each of these parameters may be adjusted for each of the at least two fuels based on the comparison between the measured interchangeability index and the predetermined interchangeability index (e.g., via the corresponding fuel supply circuits 102A, 102B, 102C, 102D described above). In many embodiments, the adjustment at (510) may include adjusting the temperature of at least one of the at least two fuels via an electric heater thermally connected to the fuel supply circuit. In other embodiments, the adjustment at (510) may include adjusting the quantity of at least one of the at least two fuels supplied to the mixing module by adjusting a control valve fluidly connected to the fuel supply circuit.

[0097] In various embodiments, method 500 may further include (e.g., as a final step) providing the fuel mixture to a combustion system. In an exemplary embodiment, the combustion system may be a combustion section of a gas turbine.

[0098] Figure 15 A block diagram of an exemplary computing system 600 is provided. The computing system 600 can be used to implement various aspects disclosed herein. The computing system 600 may include one or more computing devices 602. For example, referenced above... Figures 1 to 12 The controller 400 discussed may be constructed in the same or similar manner as the computing system 600 and may be operated in this manner.

[0099] like Figure 15 As shown, one or more computing devices 602 may each include one or more processors 604 and one or more memory devices 606. The one or more processors 604 may include any suitable processing device, such as a microprocessor, microcontroller, integrated circuit, logic device, or other suitable processing device. The one or more memory devices 606 may include one or more computer-readable media, including but not limited to one or more non-transitory computer-readable media, RAM, ROM, hard disk drives, flash drives, and other memory devices, such as one or more buffer devices.

[0100] The one or more memory devices 606 can store information accessible to the one or more processors 604, including computer-readable or computer- executable instructions 608 that can be executed by the one or more processors 604. The instructions 608 can be any set of instructions or control logic that, when executed by the one or more processors 604, cause the one or more processors 604 to perform operations. The instructions 608 can be software written in any suitable programming language or can be implemented in hardware. In some embodiments, the instructions 608 can be executed by the one or more processors 604 to cause the one or more processors 604 to perform operations.

[0101] The memory devices 606 can further store data 610 that is accessible to the processors 604. For example, the data 610 can include sensor data as described herein, such as engine parameters, model data, logic data, and the like. According to example embodiments of the present disclosure, the data 610 can include one or more tables, functions, algorithms, models, formulas, and the like.

[0102] The one or more computing devices 602 can also include a communication interface 612 for communicating, for example, with other components of the system, such as sensors, blending modules, valves, electric heaters, heat exchangers, or other components. The communication interface 612 can include any suitable components for interfacing with one or more network interfaces, including for example, transmitters, receivers, ports, controllers, antennas, or other suitable components.

[0103] The technology discussed herein makes reference to computer-based systems and actions taken by and information sent to and from computer-based systems. It is understood that the inherent flexibility of computer-based systems allows for a great variety of possible configurations, combinations, and divisions of tasks and functionality between and among components. For instance, processes discussed herein can be implemented using a single computing device or multiple computing devices working in combination. Databases, memories, programs, and applications can be implemented on a single system or distributed across multiple systems.

[0104] While specific features of various embodiments can be shown in some drawings and not in others, this is for convenience only as each particular feature can be combined with any or all of the other features in accordance with the principles of the present disclosure.

[0105] This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the present invention is defined by the claims, and can include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they include structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages of the claims.

[0106] Other aspects of the present invention are provided by the subject matter of the following clauses:

[0107] A method of blending at least two fuels, the method comprising: providing at least two fuels to an injector via a fuel supply system, the fuel supply system comprising a fuel supply circuit for each of the at least two fuels; mixing the at least two fuels via a diffuser of the injector to form a fuel mixture; determining, via one or more sensors, a measured interchangeability index of the fuel mixture, the interchangeability index being one of a measured Wobbe index of the fuel mixture or a measured modified Wobbe index of the fuel mixture; comparing the measured interchangeability index to a predetermined interchangeability index; adjusting, via the fuel supply system, one or more parameters of at least one of the at least two fuels based on the comparison between the measured interchangeability index and the predetermined interchangeability index; and providing the fuel mixture to a combustion system.

[0108] The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the one or more parameters comprise at least one of a pressure, a temperature, an amount, and a flow rate.

[0109] The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein adjusting the one or more parameters comprises adjusting a temperature of at least one of the at least two fuels via an electric heater disposed in thermal communication on the fuel supply circuit.

[0110] The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein adjusting the one or more parameters comprises adjusting an amount of at least one of the at least two fuels provided to the injector by adjusting a control valve disposed in fluid communication on the fuel supply circuit.

[0111] The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising: providing the fuel mixture from the injector to a second injector prior to providing the fuel mixture to the combustion system.

[0112] The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising: providing the fuel mixture from the injector to a second injector; mixing the fuel mixture with another of the at least two fuels in the second injector to form a second fuel mixture; and providing the second fuel mixture to the combustion system.

[0113] The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising: combusting the fuel mixture in the combustion system to form exhaust gas, and providing at least some of the exhaust gas to the fuel supply system as one of the at least two fuels.

[0114] The method of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising providing ammonia gas to the exhaust gas prior to providing the at least some of the exhaust gas to the fuel supply system.

[0115] The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the fuel supply circuit comprises: a main fuel supply line; an electric heater disposed in thermal communication on the main fuel supply line; and one or more valves disposed in fluid communication on the main fuel supply line downstream of the electric heater; a recirculation line extending from the main fuel supply line; and an atmospheric vent line extending from the main fuel supply line.

[0116] The method of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the fuel supply system further comprises an outlet line extending from the injector to the combustion system, wherein a heat exchanger is disposed in thermal communication on the outlet line.

[0117] A system for blending at least two fuels, the system comprising: a combustion system; an injector comprising a motive inlet, a suction inlet, and a diffuser; a fuel supply system for supplying at least two fuels to the injector and the combustion system, the fuel supply system comprising a fuel supply circuit for each of the at least two fuels; one or more sensors operably connected to the fuel supply system; a controller operably connected to the fuel supply system, the injector, and the one or more sensors, the controller comprising the controller comprising a memory storing instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the system to perform one or more operations, the one or more operations comprising: providing at least two fuels to the injector via a fuel supply system; mixing the at least two fuels from the motive inlet and the suction inlet via a diffuser of the injector to form a fuel mixture; determining a measured interchangeability index of the fuel mixture via one or more sensors, the interchangeability index being one of a measured Wobbe index of the fuel mixture or a measured modified Wobbe index of the fuel mixture; comparing the measured interchangeability index to a predetermined interchangeability index; adjusting one or more parameters of at least one of the at least two fuels via the fuel supply system based on the comparison between the measured interchangeability index and the predetermined interchangeability index; and providing the fuel mixture to the combustion system.

[0118] The system of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the one or more parameters comprise at least one of a pressure, a temperature, an amount, and a flow rate.

[0119] The system of any of the preceding clauses, wherein adjusting the one or more parameters comprises adjusting a temperature of at least one of the at least two fuels via an electric heater disposed in thermal communication on the fuel supply circuit.

[0120] The system of any of the preceding clauses, wherein adjusting the one or more parameters comprises adjusting an amount of at least one of the at least two fuels provided to the injector by adjusting a control valve disposed in fluid communication on the fuel supply circuit.

[0121] The system of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising a second injector positioned downstream of the injector, and wherein the one or more operations further comprise: providing the fuel mixture from the injector to the second injector; mixing, via the second injector, the fuel mixture with another of the at least two fuels to form a second fuel mixture; and providing the second fuel mixture to the combustion system.

[0122] The system of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the one or more operations further comprise: combusting the fuel mixture in the combustion system to form exhaust gas, and providing at least some of the exhaust gas to the fuel supply system as one of the at least two fuels.

[0123] The system of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the one or more operations further comprise providing ammonia gas to the exhaust gas prior to providing the at least some of the exhaust gas to the fuel supply system.

[0124] The system of any of the preceding clauses, further comprising a second injector and a third injector, wherein the injector and the second injector are in fluid communication with the third injector.

[0125] The system of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the fuel supply circuit comprises: a main fuel supply line; an electric heater disposed in thermal communication on the main fuel supply line; and one or more valves disposed in fluid communication on the main fuel supply line downstream of the electric heater; a recirculation line extending from the main fuel supply line; and an atmospheric vent line extending from the main fuel supply line.

[0126] The system of any of the preceding clauses, wherein the fuel supply system further comprises an outlet line extending from the injector to the combustion system, wherein a heat exchanger is disposed in thermal communication on the outlet line.

Claims

1. A method of blending at least two fuels, the method comprising: providing at least two fuels to an injector via a fuel supply system, the fuel supply system including a fuel supply circuit for each of the at least two fuels; mixing the at least two fuels via a diffuser of the injector to form a fuel mixture; determining, via one or more sensors, a measured interchangeability index of the fuel mixture, the interchangeability index being one of a measured Wobbe index of the fuel mixture or a measured modified Wobbe index of the fuel mixture; comparing the measured interchangeability index to a predetermined interchangeability index; based on the comparison between the measured interchangeability index and the predetermined interchangeability index, adjusting one or more parameters of at least one of the at least two fuels via the fuel supply system; and providing the fuel mixture to a combustion system.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein the one or more parameters include at least one of a pressure, a temperature, an amount, and a flow rate.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein adjusting the one or more parameters includes: adjusting a temperature of at least one of the at least two fuels via an electric heater disposed in thermal communication on the fuel supply circuit.

4. The method of claim 1, wherein adjusting the one or more parameters includes: adjusting an amount of at least one of the at least two fuels provided to the injector by adjusting a control valve disposed in fluid communication on the fuel supply circuit. providing the fuel mixture from the injector to a second injector prior to providing the fuel mixture to the combustion system.

5. The method of claim 1, further comprising: providing the fuel mixture from the injector to a second injector; 6. The method of claim 1, further comprising: mixing the fuel mixture with another of the at least two fuels in the second injector to form a second fuel mixture; and providing the second fuel mixture to the combustion system. combusting the fuel mixture in the combustion system to form an exhaust gas, and providing at least some of the exhaust gas to the fuel supply system as one of the at least two fuels.

7. The method of claim 1, further comprising:

8. The method of claim 7, further comprising providing ammonia gas to the exhaust gas prior to providing the at least some of the exhaust gas to the fuel supply system. a main fuel supply line; 9. The method of claim 1, wherein the fuel supply circuit comprises: an electric heater disposed in thermal communication on the main fuel supply line; and one or more valves disposed in fluid communication on the main fuel supply line downstream of the electric heater; a recirculation line extending from the main fuel supply line; and an atmospheric vent line extending from the main fuel supply line.

10. The method of claim 1, wherein the fuel supply system further includes an outlet line extending from the injector to the combustion system, wherein a heat exchanger is disposed in thermal communication on the outlet line. ​ 11. A system for blending at least two fuels, the system comprising: a combustion system; an ejector comprising a motive inlet, a suction inlet, and a diffuser; a fuel supply system for supplying at least two fuels to the ejector and the combustion system, the fuel supply system comprising a fuel supply circuit for each of the at least two fuels; one or more sensors operably connected to the fuel supply system; a controller operably connected to the fuel supply system, the ejector, and the one or more sensors, the controller comprising the controller comprising a memory storing instructions that, when executed by the one or more processors, cause the system to perform one or more operations, the one or more operations comprising: providing at least two fuels to the ejector via a fuel supply system; mixing the at least two fuels from the motive inlet and the suction inlet via a diffuser of the ejector to form a fuel mixture; determining a measured interchangeability index of the fuel mixture via one or more sensors, the interchangeability index being one of a measured Wobbe index of the fuel mixture or a measured modified Wobbe index of the fuel mixture; comparing the measured interchangeability index to a predetermined interchangeability index; based on the comparison between the measured interchangeability index and the predetermined interchangeability index, adjusting one or more parameters of at least one of the at least two fuels via the fuel supply system; and providing the fuel mixture to the combustion system.

12. The system of claim 11, wherein the one or more parameters comprise at least one of a pressure, a temperature, an amount, and a flow rate.

13. The system of claim 11, wherein adjusting the one or more parameters comprises: adjusting a temperature of at least one of the at least two fuels via an electric heater disposed in thermal communication on the fuel supply circuit.

14. The system of claim 11, wherein adjusting the one or more parameters comprises: adjusting an amount of at least one of the at least two fuels provided to the ejector by adjusting a control valve disposed in fluid communication on the fuel supply circuit.

15. The system of claim 11, further comprising a second injector positioned downstream of the injector, and wherein the one or more operations further comprise: providing the fuel mixture from the ejector to a second ejector; mixing the fuel mixture with another of the at least two fuels via the second ejector to form a second fuel mixture; and providing the second fuel mixture to the combustion system.

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