Gas turbine engine and method of heating compressor working fluid

Abstract

An integrated system for use with a turbine includes an inlet bleed heating (IBH) system, an exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system, and a controller.

Description

Background Technology

[0001] The field of this disclosure relates generally to turbine engine components, and more specifically, to methods and systems for heating compressor inlet air to promote improved efficiency of gas turbine engines.

[0002] Gas turbines are widely used in a variety of commercial operations, such as power generation. A known gas turbine typically comprises a compressor, one or more burners, and a turbine. Conventionally, the compressor compresses a working fluid, such as air, and discharges the compressed working fluid to the burner. Fuel is injected into the compressed working fluid stream, and the mixture is ignited to produce combustion gases with relatively high temperatures, pressures, and velocities. The combustion gases exit the burner and flow to the turbine, where the combustion gases expand to produce work that can be converted into electrical and / or mechanical energy.

[0003] The working fluid entering the compressor inlet (e.g., inlet transition pipe or filter housing) can be heated to prevent icing when operating in, for example, low-temperature environments. Heating the inlet working fluid can also improve the partial-load efficiency of the gas turbine. In some gas turbines, compressed working fluid can be drawn from a extraction location near the compressor outlet and then recirculated using a system commonly referred to as an inlet vent heating system to heat the inlet working fluid. However, known inlet vent heating systems reduce the overall operating efficiency of the associated gas turbine engine because at least some of the compressed working fluid that could otherwise be directed to do work in the turbine is drawn and recirculated back to the inlet.

[0004] Therefore, there is a need for a system and method that can heat the inlet working fluid more efficiently before it enters the compressor inlet in a manner that helps reduce overall turbine efficiency losses. Summary of the Invention

[0005] In one aspect, an integrated system for use with a turbine is provided. The integrated system includes: an exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system including an EGR flow control device for directing flow drawn from turbine exhaust gas to an EGR recirculation location upstream of the compressor inlet; and an inlet vent heating (IBH) system including an IBH flow control device for directing flow drawn from downstream of the compressor outlet to an IBH recirculation location upstream of the compressor inlet. The system also includes a controller communicatively coupled to the EGR flow control device and the IBH flow control device, wherein the controller can adjust the relative flow rates of the EGR system and the IBH system in a variable manner.

[0006] On the other hand, a power generation system is provided. The power generation system includes a compressor for compressing a working fluid, a burner, and an integrated system. The integrated system includes: an exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system including an EGR flow control device for guiding a flow drawn from turbine exhaust gas to an EGR return position upstream of the compressor inlet; and an inlet vent heating (IBH) system including an IBH flow control device for guiding a flow drawn from downstream of the compressor outlet to an IBH return position upstream of the compressor inlet. The system also includes a controller communicatively coupled to the EGR flow control device and the IBH flow control device, wherein the controller can adjust the relative flow rates of the EGR system and the IBH system in a variable manner.

[0007] In another aspect, a method for using an integrated system for a gas turbine engine is provided. The method includes receiving sensor data from multiple sensors at various locations coupled within the integrated system, determining a current operating state based on the received sensor data, and adjusting at least one of flow parameters of the EGR system and the IBH system to promote improved operating efficiency of the gas turbine engine. Attached Figure Description

[0008] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of this disclosure will be better understood when the following detailed description is read with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which the same characters denote the same parts throughout the drawings, wherein:

[0009] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary power generation system that includes a gas turbine engine and an integrated efficiency (IE) system.

[0010] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary integrated efficiency system including an inlet vent heating (IBH) system, which can be used with, for example... Figure 1 Used together with the power generation system shown.

[0011] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of another exemplary integrated efficiency system, which can be compared with, for example... Figure 1 The power generation system shown is used together and includes an IBH system and an exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system.

[0012] Figure 4 It is possible to be with Figures 1 to 3 A block diagram of an exemplary control system used in conjunction with an IE system is shown in the figure.

[0013] Figure 5 It can be used with, for example, in Figures 1 to 3The first perspective of an exemplary filter used with the IE system is shown in the image.

[0014] Figure 6 yes Figure 5 The second perspective view of the filter is shown in the image.

[0015] Figure 7 yes Figure 5 The filter is shown in the cross-sectional view.

[0016] Figure 8 It is possible to be with Figures 1 to 3 The image shows a perspective view of an exemplary IBH manifold used with an IE system.

[0017] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 A detailed view of the IBH manifold is shown in the image.

[0018] Figure 10 It is possible to be with Figures 1 to 3 The image shows a front perspective view of an exemplary EGR manifold used with an IE system.

[0019] Figure 11 yes Figure 10 The rear perspective view of an exemplary EGR manifold is shown in the figure.

[0020] Figure 12 yes Figure 10 The rear view of an exemplary EGR manifold is shown in the figure.

[0021] Figure 13 It is control, for example Figures 1 to 3 The flowchart illustrates an exemplary method of the IE system.

[0022] Unless otherwise specified, the accompanying drawings provided herein are intended to illustrate features of embodiments of this disclosure. These features are believed to be applicable to a wide variety of systems including one or more embodiments of this disclosure. Therefore, the drawings are not intended to include all conventional features known to those skilled in the art for practicing the embodiments disclosed herein. Detailed Implementation

[0023] In the following specification and claims, several terms will be referenced, which should be defined as having the following meanings. Unless the context clearly specifies otherwise, the singular forms “an,” “a,” and “the” include plural references. “Optional” or “optionally” means that an event or situation described below may or may not occur, and the description includes instances of the event occurring and instances of the event not occurring. Furthermore, references to “an embodiment” are not intended to be construed as excluding the existence of additional embodiments that also include the listed features. Additionally, unless expressly stated to the contrary, embodiments that “comprise” or “have” one or more elements having a particular property may include additional such elements that do not have that property.

[0024] As used herein, the term "real-time" means any of the following: the time when a related event occurs, the time when predetermined data is measured and collected, the time when data is processed, or the time when a system responds to an event or environment. In the embodiments described herein, these activities and events occur substantially instantaneously.

[0025] In the exemplary embodiments described herein, the power generation system includes an integrated efficiency (IE) system used with a gas turbine engine. In some embodiments, the IE system includes an inlet vent heating (IBH) system and an exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system. In at least some of the embodiments described herein, the IE system recirculates the working fluid and / or exhaust gas back to one or more locations upstream of a compressor segment, such as an inlet transition pipe that directs the working fluid into the compressor. In an exemplary embodiment, the IBH system draws in working fluid from a draw-in location near the compressor outlet and then recirculates the compressed working fluid back to a location upstream of the compressor inlet, and then the EGR system draws in exhaust gas leaving the turbine outlet and recirculates the exhaust gas back to a location upstream of the compressor inlet. In the embodiments described herein, the IE system heats the inlet working fluid before it enters the compressor inlet, thereby improving the gas turbine's partial load efficiency or the turbine's efficiency when operating outside the turbine's full-load design point, while also preventing icing and / or compressor surge. The power generation system may include a gas turbine simple cycle, cogeneration, or a combined cycle.

[0026] In some embodiments, the IE system includes a controller that regulates flow parameters (such as mass flow rate, relative mass flow rate, and / or the amount of fluid, such as exhaust or compressed air), of both the EGR system and the IBH system to achieve a desired operating state for the gas turbine engine. In some embodiments, the controller is communicatively coupled to one or more sensors and can selectively regulate the flow parameters in a real-time or periodic manner based on received sensor data and the target operating state. In some embodiments, the controller can determine one or more parameters, such as temperature, and selectively regulate the flow parameters based on the determined parameters. Because the EGR system and the IBH system can be used in combination, the IBH system can be more compact, have a smaller physical footprint, and pump less compressed fluid, thereby improving the efficiency of the power generation system 100. In some embodiments, the IBH system can be used solely to prevent compressor surge, supplement the EGR system, and / or serve as a backup, since the heating of the inlet air is primarily achieved by the EGR system. In some implementations, while the EGR system operates continuously to heat the inlet air, the controller can selectively turn the IBH system on / off to prevent compressor surge.

[0027] In some implementations, the IE system prevents icing by heating one or more components of the gas turbine system and / or by heating the inlet working fluid before it enters the compressor. The IE system may heat the inlet transition duct and / or the inlet working fluid upstream of the compressor by recirculating the compressed working fluid through the IBH system and / or by recirculating the exhaust gas through the EGR system. Specifically, the temperature of the exhaust and / or vented compressed air may be higher than the temperature of the drawn-in inlet air.

[0028] In some implementations, the IE system helps reduce emissions from the gas turbine engine. More specifically, in some implementations, the EGR system draws exhaust gas from the turbine outlet and redirects it upstream of the compressor inlet, thereby controlling the release of emissions from the gas turbine engine.

[0029] In some implementations, the IE system also contributes to reducing the likelihood of compressor surge. Compressor surge can refer to an operating condition in which airflow within the compressor becomes unstable and / or disrupted, causing undesirable vibration and noise. In some implementations, the IE system includes an IBH system that draws compressed working fluid away from the compressor draw-in location and then returns the compressed working fluid upstream of the compressor inlet. Because the compressed working fluid is drawn from the compressor draw-in location, the front-end load on the compressor is reduced, and thus the likelihood of compressor surge is significantly reduced.

[0030] In some implementations, this IE system improves part-load efficiency, compressor efficiency, and / or turbine efficiency by preheating the inlet working fluid. Heating the working fluid allows the gas turbine to maintain a premixed operating state over a wider load range, where fuel is mixed with the compressed working fluid before combustion, while maintaining higher combustion temperatures, compressor and combustor stability, and emissions compliance, and reducing current IBH extraction flow requirements. Reduced IBH extraction helps reduce fuel consumption of the gas turbine engine at the same power output, thereby improving part-load efficiency. Furthermore, inlet heating increases compressor discharge temperature and gas turbine exhaust temperature, thereby improving bottom-cycle efficiency, and consequently, combined cycle output and efficiency.

[0031] In some implementations, the IE system helps reduce acoustic noise levels, thereby enabling the fulfillment of plant acoustic requirements. In some implementations, the IE system reduces noise levels through silencers and / or acoustic nozzles in the IBH manifold.

[0032] In some embodiments, the IE system includes one or more sensors that detect one or more operating states of the gas turbine engine, the IBH system, and / or the EGR system. These sensors may include, but are not limited to, temperature sensors, pressure sensors, flow sensors, and / or emission sensors. In some embodiments, the IE system can use data obtained from the sensors to detect surge events, potential surge events, and / or early-stage surge events. For example, sensors may detect airflow and / or pressure at and / or near the compressor (e.g., compressor outlet), where detected changes can indicate a surge event. In some embodiments, the controller may use any suitable method (e.g., using a compressor characteristic graph that includes a surge line) to determine the surge state. In some embodiments, the IE system can use data provided by such sensors to detect icing events. For example, in some embodiments, one or more sensors may be positioned to detect inlet temperature, working fluid temperature, and / or ambient temperature, humidity, or relative humidity (e.g., outside the gas turbine engine), and / or any other temperature readings upstream of the compressor inlet. In some embodiments, the IE system may utilize data obtained from the sensors to detect emissions from the power generation system.

[0033] In some implementations, such as without using sensors for direct measurement, the IE system may, for example, use a controller to determine one or more operating states of the gas turbine engine, the IBH system, and / or the EGR system. For example, the controller may calculate or look up one or more values ​​of pressure, temperature, flow rate, and / or emissions at one or more locations of the IE system and / or the gas turbine engine.

[0034] In an exemplary embodiment, the controller is coupled to the IBH system and the EGR system, enabling selective control of the operation or related operations of the IBH system and / or the EGR system. The controller may also be coupled to one or more sensors. In some embodiments, the controller may (e.g., by controlling the position of a control valve) selectively control flow parameters, such as the flow rate of the working fluid directed through the IBH system and / or the flow parameters of the exhaust gas directed through the EGR system, to achieve a desired operating state while improving efficiency. In some embodiments, the controller may use data received from sensors and / or data determined by the controller to selectively adjust one or more parameters of the IE system, such as parameters of the IBH system and / or the EGR system. For example, in some embodiments, the controller may predict the amount of time that a potential surge event, icing event, and / or emission levels exceeding a predefined operating threshold will occur.

[0035] Now refer to the attached diagram, Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an exemplary power generation or mechanical drive system 100, which includes a turbine engine 110 and an integrated efficiency (IE) system 200, which includes an exhaust gas regeneration (EGR) system 202 and an inlet vent heating (IBH) system 204. While the exemplary embodiment is illustrated in conjunction with a gas turbine engine, the invention is not limited to any particular engine, and those skilled in the art will understand that the invention can be used in conjunction with other turbine engines. As used herein, the terms “turbine,” “turbine assembly,” and “turbine engine” should be used interchangeably.

[0036] The IE system 200 may include a controller 206 coupled to the EGR system 202 and the IBH system 204. As will be described in detail herein, the controller 206 may control the flow of working fluid through the IBH system 204 and / or the exhaust flow through the EGR system 202. The IE system 200 may also include at least one sensor 208 that detects one or more parameters or operating states of the IE system 200 and / or the gas turbine engine 110. The controller 206 may be combined with a controller associated with the gas turbine engine 110. Alternatively and / or separately, the controller 206 may be separate from the controller associated with the gas turbine engine 110.

[0037] In an exemplary embodiment, the turbine engine 110 includes an intake section 112, a compressor section 114 coupled downstream of the intake section 112, a combustor section 116 coupled downstream of the compressor section 114, a turbine section 118 coupled downstream of the combustor section 116, and an exhaust section 120. The turbine section 118 is coupled to the compressor section 114 via a rotor shaft 122. The combustor section 116 may include a plurality of combustors (not shown). The combustor section 116 is fluidly coupled to the compressor section 114.

[0038] Fuel injector 124 is coupled to combustor segment 116. In some embodiments, turbine engine 110 includes one or more manifolds 126 that include a plurality of fuel injectors 124. Turbine segment 118 is coupled to compressor segment 114 and load 128, such as, but not limited to, generator and / or mechanical drive applications. In an exemplary embodiment, each compressor segment 114 and turbine segment 118 includes at least one rotor disk assembly 130 coupled to rotor shaft 122 to form rotor assembly 132.

[0039] During operation, intake section 112 directs air toward compressor inlet 134 of compressor section 114, where the air is compressed to higher pressure and temperature. The pressurized air is then mixed with fuel, and the resulting mixture is discharged toward combustor section 116. More specifically, the compressed air-fuel mixture is ignited to produce combustion gases, which are directed toward turbine section 118. As the combustion gases impart rotational energy to turbine section 118 and rotor assembly 132, turbine section 118 converts the thermal energy from the airflow into mechanical rotational energy.

[0040] In some implementations, fuel source 150 may be a variable fuel source capable of supplying various types of fuels and / or fuel mixtures. For example, fuel source 150 may store and / or supply natural gas, liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) blends, methane, hydrogen, hydrogen / natural gas blends, fuel oil, coke oven gas, refinery gas, and any suitable gaseous fuel or gaseous fuel mixture. The fuel supplied and / or stored by the fuel source may be variably selected based on operating conditions and / or the availability of one or more fuel sources.

[0041] The turbine engine 110 may include one or more conduits, pipes, tubes, and / or conduits (generally referred to herein as conduit 140) for transferring fuel between components. Gravity may be used to propel fuel through conduit 140 from an upstream component to a downstream component. Alternatively and / or additionally, a compressor, pump, or blower 142 may be used, for example, to pressurize the fuel through conduit 140.

[0042] In some embodiments, the gas turbine engine 110 includes a variable inlet guide vane assembly 148 positioned upstream of the compressor inlet 134. In such embodiments, the controller 206 can selectively adjust the angle of one or more vanes of the variable inlet guide vane assembly 148, thereby regulating the mass flow rate and / or changing the amount of working fluid entering the compressor section 114. For example, the gas turbine engine 110 can adjust the inlet guide vane 148 to facilitate a reduction in the amount of working fluid delivered to the compressor section 114, such that a desired working fluid to fuel ratio is maintained, for example, during partial load operation. In some embodiments, the controller 206 can selectively regulate both the inlet guide vane assembly 148 and the temperature of the working fluid delivered to the compressor section 114 by selectively controlling the IBH system and the EGR system, thereby controlling the amount of working fluid delivered to the compressor section 114.

[0043] As described above, the IE system 200 controls the temperature of the working fluid upstream of compressor section 114. An increase in the inlet operating temperature reduces the density of the working fluid, thereby reducing the mass of the working fluid entering compressor section 114. The controller 206 determines the amount of heat (e.g., thermal energy) that needs to be supplied to the upstream working fluid to ensure proper heating and the necessary reduction in working fluid density to regulate the amount of working fluid delivered to compressor section 114. The controller 206 can adjust both the variable inlet guide vane 148 and the IE system 200 to control the mass flow rate of the working fluid entering compressor section 114. For example, the controller 206 can position the variable inlet guide vane assembly 148 in a fully open or fully open position, and the controller can utilize the IE system 200 to regulate the amount of working fluid delivered to compressor section 114. For example, the controller 206 can use the EGR system 202 to increase the amount of exhaust gas delivered upstream of compressor inlet 136, thereby heating the inlet working fluid and reducing its density, and thus reducing the amount of working fluid delivered to compressor section 114.

[0044] In an exemplary embodiment, the IBH system 204 draws compressed working fluid downstream of compressor outlet 136 and then reintroduces the compressed fluid upstream of compressor inlet 134. The drawn-in compressed working fluid can be propelled through the IBH system 204 via a pressure differential. For example, the working fluid drawn from compressor 114 in the IBH system 204 may have a higher pressure than the working fluid and / or air upstream of compressor inlet 134. In some alternative embodiments, the drawn-in compressed working fluid can be propelled via a flow-driving device. In some embodiments, the IBH system 204 includes one or more flow control devices 144 (e.g., valves) that control the flow of compressed working fluid. The IBH system 204 may also include a conduit directing compressed air from compressor outlet 136 to a location upstream of compressor inlet 134. Reference Figure 2 and Figure 3 The IBH system 204 is shown and described in more detail.

[0045] In an exemplary embodiment, the EGR system 202 draws exhaust gas exiting turbine section 118 and then reintroduces the exhaust gas upstream of compressor inlet 134. In some embodiments, the EGR system 202 may include one or more flow-driving devices 146 for driving exhaust gas through the EGR system 202 from the combustor outlet to the upstream reintroduction location. In some embodiments, the pressure of the drawn exhaust gas may be less than the pressure of the working fluid upstream of compressor inlet 134. In some embodiments, the temperature of the drawn exhaust gas is higher than the temperature of the working fluid and / or the temperature of the air upstream of compressor inlet 134. The EGR system 202 may include one or more ducts that guide the exhaust gas flow from the combustor outlet toward the location upstream of compressor inlet 134. Reference Figure 2 and Figure 3 The EGR system 202 is shown and described in more detail.

[0046] In an exemplary embodiment, the IE system 200 can operate in any of a variety of operating modes, enabling it to achieve one or more desired operating states, including but not limited to, anti-icing, surge protection, and / or emissions compliance, while improving the efficiency of the power generation system 100 or the gas turbine engine 110. The controller 206 can variably select the operating mode based on the target operating state. At least one operating mode is an EGR mode, in which the controller 206 enables the IE system 200 to utilize the EGR system 202, and during this time, the IBH system 204 is de-energized and / or placed in standby mode. At least one other operating mode includes an EGR-dominant mode, in which the IE system 200 supplies a higher quantity or higher quality flow rate of exhaust gas via the EGR system 202 compared to the quantity or mass flow rate of compressed working fluid drawn through the IBH system 204 at the extraction location downstream of the compressor outlet 136.

[0047] As used herein, the terms “processor” and “computer”, as well as related terms such as “processing device,” “computing device,” and “controller”, are not limited to those integrated circuits referred to in the art as computers, but broadly refer to microcontrollers, microcomputers, programmable logic controllers (PLCs), application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), and / or other programmable circuits, and these terms are used interchangeably herein. In the embodiments described herein, memory may include, but is not limited to, computer-readable media such as random access memory (RAM) and computer-readable non-volatile media such as flash memory. Alternatively, floppy disks, optical disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), magneto-optical disk (MOD), and / or digital versatile optical disk (DVD) may also be used. Additionally, in the embodiments described herein, additional input channels may be, but are not limited to, computer peripherals associated only with the operator interface, such as a mouse and keyboard. Alternatively, other computer peripherals may be used, such as, but not limited to, scanners or touchscreens. Furthermore, in the embodiments described herein, additional output channels may include, but are not limited to, monitors solely for the operator interface.

[0048] Figure 2 Is it possible to... Figure 1 A schematic diagram of an exemplary implementation of the IBH system 204 used in conjunction with the IE system 200 shown. Figure 3This is a schematic diagram of an IE system 200, and includes both an IBH system 204 and an EGR system 202. In an exemplary embodiment, the IE system 200 may include a filter 210, a muffler 212, and / or an IBH manifold 214. The filter 210, muffler 212, and / or IBH manifold 214 may be located within an internal passage 216 defined by an inlet transition conduit 218. The inlet transition conduit 218 may be fluidly coupled to a compressor inlet 134 such that the inlet transition conduit 218 directs inlet working fluid, air, and / or exhaust towards the compressor inlet 134. In some embodiments, the inlet transition conduit 218 may be coupled to at least a portion of an intake section 112 that draws inlet fluid 220 into the compressor 114. The conduit 218 may have any suitable shape or size that enables the IE system to function as described herein. In some embodiments, the IBH manifold 214 may extend across (e.g., completely across) the internal passage 216 defined by the conduit 218. Inlet transition conduit 218 may include a transition conduit that couples the inlet filter housing conduit to the inlet compressor; for example, the transition conduit may couple together two conduit portions, each with a different cross-sectional area. Filter 210 may include one or more filter elements 222. Filter 210, muffler 212, and / or IBH manifold 214 may be located upstream of compressor inlet 134. In some embodiments, muffler 212 is located downstream of filter 210 and upstream of compressor inlet 134. IBH manifold 214 distributes fluid used with IBH system 204. In some embodiments, IE system 200 includes EGR manifold 224 for distributing exhaust gas upstream of compressor inlet 134.

[0049] Sensors 208 of the IE system 200 may include, but are not limited to, sensors such as temperature sensors, pressure sensors, flow sensors, relative humidity sensors, and / or emission sensors. Sensors 208 may be located at various suitable locations within or near the IE system 200 and / or the power generation system 100. In some embodiments, the IE system 200 may use data provided from at least one of the sensors 208 or determined by the controller 206 to detect surge events, potential surge events, and / or early-stage surge events. For example, the IE system 200 may detect surge events by detecting or determining changes in airflow and / or pressure at and / or near the compressor and / or near the compressor outlet 136. In some embodiments, the controller 206 may use any suitable method (e.g., using a compressor characteristic curve including a surge line) to determine the surge state. In some embodiments, the IE system 200 may use one or more sensors 208 to detect current emission levels or determine emission performance or compliance.

[0050] In some embodiments, at least one sensor 208 may be positioned to detect ambient temperature or humidity, such as the temperature outside the gas turbine engine 110 and / or the temperature upstream of the compressor inlet 134. In some embodiments, sensor 208 and / or controller 206 may detect icing conditions. For example, icing conditions may be sensed based on temperature sensor 208 detecting a predetermined temperature upstream of the compressor inlet 134, and controller 206 may receive and process the temperature data. In such an example, controller 206 may compare the temperature data to one or more temperature thresholds to determine whether an icing event is about to occur or is occurring.

[0051] Further reference Figure 2 and Figure 3 The IBH system 204 draws compressed working fluid from a draw-out location near or downstream of compressor outlet 136, and then returns the drawn-out compressed fluid to a location upstream of compressor inlet 134. The IBH system 204 includes a location 250 where compressed working fluid is drawn from the gas turbine engine 110. In some embodiments, the draw-out location 250 is located downstream of compressor outlet 136 and upstream of combustor section 116. In some embodiments, the draw-out location 250 is located at or near compressor outlet 136. The pressure of the drawn-out working fluid from compressor section 114 may be higher than the pressure of the inlet fluid 220 upstream of compressor inlet 134. In some embodiments, the drawn-out working fluid is drawn from near compressor section 114 or directly from any suitable draw-out location within that compressor section.

[0052] The IBH system 204 includes a conduit 252, such as a pipe or tube, for transporting the extracted compressed working fluid to a return location 254. The IBH system 204 may include one or more flow control devices 144 for enhanced control of the working fluid flow through the IBH system 204. In an exemplary embodiment, the IBH system 204 includes a first flow control device 258 and a second flow control device 260. More specifically, in an exemplary embodiment, the first flow control device 258 is a manual valve that can be selectively adjusted to block or control the flow of the extracted working fluid traveling through the IBH system 204, and the second flow control device 260 may be an automatic control valve that is selectively adjusted by a controller 206.

[0053] Figure 2The illustrated IBH system 204 includes three distinct potential return locations 254 that can be used with the IBH system 204 and / or the IE system 200. More specifically, in an exemplary embodiment, the IBH system 204 includes a first return location 262 and a second return location 264. The first return location 262 is located downstream of the muffler 212. The second return location 264 is located upstream of the muffler 212 and downstream of the filter 210. Alternatively, the return location 254 can be any other suitable location upstream of the compressor inlet 134 that enables the IBH system 204 to function as described herein.

[0054] The IBH system 204 can recirculate the compressed working fluid back into the pipeline via the IBH manifold 214, allowing the recirculated working fluid to combine with the existing working fluid contained within the pipeline, thereby increasing the pressure and temperature of the existing working fluid. Specifically, the pressure and temperature of the compressed working fluid drawn from position 250 are each higher than the pressure and temperature of the working fluid contained within the internal channel 216 and / or the pressure and temperature of the inlet fluid 220.

[0055] EGR system 202 draws exhaust gas downstream of turbine outlet 138. EGR system 202 includes a return location 280 located upstream of compressor inlet 134. EGR system 202 includes a duct 282, such as a pipe or tube, to transfer the drawn exhaust gas to return location 280, and also includes one or more flow control devices, such as flow control device 146, including but not limited to, blowers, injectors, and compressors coupled in parallel or series (with variable or fixed speed control). In an alternative embodiment, EGR system 202 may include one or more flow control devices, such as valves or regulators (not shown).

[0056] exist Figure 3 The IE system 200 shown illustrates an IBH system 204, in which the return position is located upstream of the muffler 212, and the return position of the IBH system 204 is located downstream of the return position used in conjunction with the EGR system 202. In other embodiments, the relative return positions of the IBH system and the EGR system 202 can be positioned relative to each other in any suitable location and orientation that allows the IE system 200 to function as described herein. For example, the IBH system 204 may include... Figure 2 The reflux position 264 or 262 shown. Additionally and / or alternatively, the IBH system 204 and / or the EGR system 202 may each include one or more reflux positions arranged in any other suitable location that enables the IE system 200 to function as described herein.

[0057] In some embodiments, the EGR system 202 includes, for example, a flow control damper 270 positioned upstream of the flow control device 146 to enhance control over exhaust flow through the duct 282. In some embodiments, the EGR system 202 may include a transmission drive or any other suitable flow control device. The EGR system 202 may include a shut-off valve 272 for closing or stopping exhaust flow through the duct 282. The EGR system 200 may also include an EGR injection manifold 224. See also Figures 10 to 12 In some implementations, the EGR manifold 224 used with the EGR system and the IBH manifold 214 used with the IBH system 204 have two different configurations suitable for the corresponding pressures and temperatures of the IBH system 204 and the EGR system 202.

[0058] In some embodiments, supplemental working fluid 274 (e.g., air) may also be selectively added to EGR system 202 to control the temperature or pressure of exhaust gas returning to inlet conduit 218. For example, in some embodiments, IE system 200 includes one or more flow control devices 276 for controlling the introduction of supplemental working fluid 274 into exhaust gas entrained within EGR system 202 (e.g., within conduit 282). Supplemental working fluid 274 may be introduced into EGR system 202 from downstream of flow control device 146 and / or valve 272 and from upstream of return position 280. Controller 206 is communicatively connected to flow control device 276 and can selectively control the amount of supplemental working fluid 274 added to EGR system 202. Controller 206 can selectively adjust the amount of supplemental working fluid 274 added to EGR system 202 to selectively control the temperature of exhaust gas introduced at position 280, thereby controlling the amount of thermal energy supplied to the inlet working fluid entering compressor section 114.

[0059] Figure 4 This is a block diagram of an exemplary controller 206 that can be used with system 200. Controller 206 includes a processor 402 and a memory 404. Controller 206 is communicatively coupled to sensor 208 to receive data from sensor 208 in real time or over predetermined time periods. In some embodiments, controller 206 may determine data such as pressure, temperature, and / or flow rate. Controller 206 may use the received sensor data to determine the state of power generation system 100. For example, controller 206 may determine whether an icing condition, surge condition, and / or discharge condition exists or is likely to exist. In some embodiments, controller 206 may determine temperature conditions, such as threshold temperatures required to maintain inlet temperatures, such as operating temperatures required to prevent icing or improve partial load efficiency.

[0060] Controller 206 is communicatively coupled to EGR system 202 and IBH system 204 to control the amount of fluid traveling through each system. Controller 206 may transmit one or more signals to flow control device 146 to control the exhaust flow through EGR system 202. Controller 206 may transmit one or more signals to flow control device 260 to control the flow of compressed fluid through IBH system 204.

[0061] Figures 5 to 8 Examples are given, for instance, that can be used with Figures 1 to 3 The filter 210 used in conjunction with the illustrated IE system 200. The filter 210 may be located upstream of the compressor 114 and may include one or more filter elements 222 or not shown, for treating air or working fluid before the working fluid is introduced into the compressor inlet 134. For example, the filter 210 may remove contaminants entrained in the working fluid. Furthermore, the filter 210 may include one or more weatherproof shrouds 502 and / or filter compartments 504, which include outlets 508 for discharging the filtered working fluid into conduit 218.

[0062] Figure 9 An exemplary IBH manifold 214 that can be used with system 200 is illustrated. In an exemplary embodiment, IBH manifold 214 can introduce or return recirculated compressed working fluid of IBH system 204 to inlet transition conduit 218. IBH manifold 214 may include a horizontal member 602 and a plurality of vertical members 604 that extend substantially perpendicularly from and are fluidly coupled to the horizontal member 602. The plurality of vertical members 604 may be along a length L of the horizontal member 602. 214 The IBH manifold 214 is equally spaced and includes a plurality of outlet members 606 fluidly connected to the vertical member 604. The horizontal member 602, the vertical member 604, and the outlet members 606 may be hollow, such as hollow tubes or pipes, so that the recirculated compressed working fluid can travel through the horizontal member 602 and into the vertical member 604 before being discharged through the array of outlet members 606.

[0063] Recirculated compressed working fluid can be propelled through IBH manifold 214 via a pressure differential. For example, the pressure of the compressed working fluid drawn from compressor outlet 136 is higher than the working pressure downstream of compressor outlet 136 within IBH system 204, thus propelling the fluid through IBH manifold 214. An array of outlet components 606 distributes compressed air onto conduit 218.

[0064] refer to Figures 10 to 12In some embodiments, the IE system includes an EGR manifold 224 for introducing exhaust flow into conduit 218. The EGR manifold 224 may include a housing 702 having an inlet 704 and an outlet 706. The housing 702 may be part of conduit 218. The EGR manifold 224 may include one or more pipes 708 extending from and fluidly coupled to conduit 282. The pipes 708 may extend along a vertical length L of conduit 282. 282 The pipes are spaced equidistantly. The pipe 708 may extend horizontally through the conduit 218, for example, so that the exhaust gas is evenly distributed within the conduit 218. The pipe 708 may be included in the length L of the conduit 706. 706 Multiple spaced-apart openings 710. Exhaust gas travels through duct 282, through pipe 708, and then exits pipe 708 through openings 710 to distribute exhaust gas to inlet pipe 218 without introducing turbulence. The exhaust gas can be pushed or regulated to move through EGR manifold 224 by flow control device 146 and / or damper 270.

[0065] Figure 13 This is a process flow diagram of an exemplary method for operating an integrated efficiency system 200 (IE system 200) used with a power generation system such as power generation system 100, which includes an EGR system 202 and an IBH system 204. For example, any or all of process 800 may be executed by controller 206.

[0066] In some embodiments, process 800 may include selecting an operating state or operating mode. In some embodiments, controller 206 may select an operating mode based on a target or desired operating state. In some embodiments, the operating mode may be selected by an operator, for example, using a user interface. In some embodiments, controller 206 may select an operating mode based on received sensor data. Operating modes may include an EGR mode, in which controller 206 enables IE system 200 to utilize EGR system 202, and during this period, IBH system 204 is powered down and / or placed in standby mode. At least one other operating mode includes an EGR-dominant mode, in which IE system 200 supplies a higher mass flow or mass flow rate of exhaust gas via EGR system 202 compared to the compressed working fluid drawn from downstream of compressor outlet 136 via IBH system 204. Operating states may include, for example, icing protection, compressor surge protection, and efficiency targets. In the embodiments described herein, the IE system 200 can operate in one or more of a variety of operating modes, including an EGR mode. In the EGR mode, the controller 206 causes the IE system 200 to operate the EGR system 202, and the IBH system 204 is powered down and / or placed in standby mode. Alternatively, the controller 206 can cause the IE system 200 to operate in an EGR-dominant mode, in which both the EGR system 202 and the IBH system 204 operate, while the IBH system 204 supplies a minimum amount of compressed working fluid to the inlet.

[0067] Process 800 may include detecting one or more parameters of the power generation system 100 and / or the IE system 200. Detecting the parameters may include detecting temperature at one or more locations upstream of the compressor inlet 134 using a temperature sensor. Detecting the parameters may include detecting pressure at one or more locations downstream of the compressor inlet 134 using a pressure sensor. In some embodiments, process 800 includes, for example, using controller 206 to determine one or more parameters of the power generation system 100 and / or the IE system 200.

[0068] Process 800 may include determining a state based on the detected parameter 802 or determined parameters. In some embodiments, process 800 includes determining a surge state 806. In some embodiments, controller 206 may be used to determine the surge state 806. Controller 206 may use any suitable method (e.g., using a compressor characteristic curve including a surge line) to determine the surge state. In some embodiments, controller 206 may determine the surge state based on the detected parameter 802 and / or determined parameters. In some embodiments, process 800 includes determining an icing state 806 based on the detected parameter 802 and / or determined parameters.

[0069] Process 800 may include determining target flow parameters for the IBH system 204 and the EGR system 202. In some embodiments, the flow parameters may be mass flow rates. In some embodiments, process 800 may include determining mass parameters for the IBH and / or EGR systems 202. For example, controller 206 may determine IBH mass parameters and / or EGR mass parameters. The IBH mass parameters indicate the amount of compressed working fluid delivered from upstream of the compressor using the IBH system 204, and the EGR mass parameters indicate the amount of exhaust gas delivered from upstream of the compressor using the EGR system 202.

[0070] In some embodiments, process 800 includes using controller 206 to determine a target temperature for the exhaust gas recirculated within the EGR system 202 introduced at location 280. Process 800 may include controller 206 selectively regulating the amount of supplemental working fluid 274 added to the exhaust gas to achieve the determined target temperature. Controller 206 may selectively regulate the amount of supplemental working fluid 274 added by transmitting one or more signals to flow control device 276.

[0071] In some embodiments, process 800 includes, for example, using controller 206 to determine a target amount of working fluid to be delivered to compressor section 114. Process 800 may include controller 206 transmitting one or more signals to inlet guide vanes 148, IBH system 204, and EGR system 202 to control the amount of working fluid delivered to compressor section 114. In some embodiments, process 800 may include, for example, using controller 206 to determine the amount of working fluid to be delivered to compressor section 114 based on the temperature of the working fluid upstream of compressor section 114.

[0072] Controller 206 may determine flow parameters based on one or more states detected by sensor 208 or states determined by controller 206. In some embodiments, controller 206 may determine flow parameters based on selected states. In some embodiments, controller 206 may determine flow parameters based on selected operating modes (e.g., modes selected by the operator).

[0073] Process 800 includes simultaneously controlling EGR system 202 and IBH system 204 via controller 206 based on determined flow parameters of 806.

[0074] In some implementations, process 800 includes, for example, iteratively detecting the operating status of flow parameters in real time or periodically, and simultaneously controlling EGR system 202 and IBH system 204 based on the detected status to prevent icing and / or surge events by using the combination of EGR system 202 and IBH system 204, thereby promoting optimization of the power generation system 100. Furthermore, process 800 can be used to promote improvements in the overall efficiency of the power generation system 100.

[0075] Other aspects of this disclosure are provided by the subject matter of the following provisions:

[0076] 1. An integrated system for use with a turbine, the integrated system comprising: an exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system including an EGR flow control device for directing a flow drawn from turbine exhaust gas to an EGR recirculation location upstream of a compressor inlet; an inlet vent heating (IBH) system including an IBH flow control device for directing a flow drawn from downstream of a compressor outlet to an IBH recirculation location upstream of the compressor inlet; and a controller communicatively coupled to the EGR flow control device and the IBH flow control device, wherein the controller adjusts the relative flow rates of the EGR system and the IBH system in a variable manner.

[0077] 2. The integrated efficiency system according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the EGR flow control device is at least one of a pump, a blower, or an ejector.

[0078] 3. The integrated efficiency system according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the IBH flow control device is a control valve.

[0079] 4. The integrated efficiency system according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the IBH is reintroduced at the IBH return location via the IBH manifold.

[0080] 5. The integrated efficiency system according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the integrated system further includes a temperature sensor configured to detect the temperature upstream of the compressor inlet.

[0081] 6. The integrated efficiency system according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the controller is configured to determine an icing event using data received from at least one temperature sensor.

[0082] 7. The integrated efficiency system according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the integrated system further includes a pressure sensor configured to detect the operating pressure downstream of the compressor outlet.

[0083] 8. The integrated efficiency system according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the controller is configured to determine potential compressor surge events based on data received from a pressure sensor.

[0084] 9. A power generation system comprising: a compressor for compressing a working fluid; a combustor; and an integrated system for use with a turbine, the integrated system comprising: an exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system including an EGR flow control device for directing a flow drawn from the exhaust gas of the combustor to an EGR reflux position upstream of the inlet of the compressor; an inlet vent heating (IBH) system including an IBH flow control device for directing a flow drawn from the outlet of the compressor to an IBH reflux position upstream of the inlet of the compressor; and a controller communicatively coupled to the EGR flow control device and the IBH flow control device, wherein the controller selectively regulates the relative flow rates of the EGR system and the IBH system.

[0085] 10. The power generation system according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the EGR flow control device is at least one of a pump, a blower, or an ejector.

[0086] 11. The power generation system according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the IBH flow control device is a control valve.

[0087] 12. The power generation system according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the IBH is reintroduced at the IBH return location via an IBH manifold.

[0088] 13. The power generation system according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the integrated system further includes a temperature sensor configured to detect the temperature upstream of the compressor inlet.

[0089] 14. The power generation system according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the integrated system further includes a pressure sensor configured to detect the operating pressure downstream of the compressor outlet.

[0090] 15. The power generation system according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein the controller is configured to determine potential compressor surge events based on data received from a pressure sensor.

[0091] 16. A method of using an integrated system for a gas turbine engine, the method comprising: receiving sensor data from a plurality of sensors coupled to various locations within the integrated system; determining a current operating state based on the received sensor data; and adjusting at least one of flow parameters of an EGR system and flow parameters of an IBH system to promote improved operating efficiency of the gas turbine engine.

[0092] 17. The method according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein adjusting at least one of the flow parameters of the EGR system further includes transmitting a signal to an EGR flow control device indicating the flow rate.

[0093] 18. The method according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein receiving sensor data further includes receiving temperature data from a temperature sensor located upstream of the compressor.

[0094] 19. The method according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein receiving sensor data further includes receiving pressure data from a pressure sensor located downstream of the compressor.

[0095] 20. The method according to any of the preceding clauses, wherein adjusting at least one of the flow parameters of the EGR system further comprises: heating the working fluid upstream of the compressor; and adjusting the flow parameters of the IBH system to prevent compressor surge.

[0096] Although specific features of the various embodiments of this disclosure may be shown in some figures and not in others, this is merely for convenience. Any feature of any of the figures may be referenced and / or claimed in accordance with the principles of this disclosure, in conjunction with any feature of any other figure.

[0097] In the exemplary embodiments described herein, an integrated efficiency (IE) system for use with a gas turbine engine is provided. This IE system includes an inlet vent heating (IBH) system and an exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system, which can be selectively combined and / or used in isolation to promote improved efficiency of the power generation system, improved part-load efficiency, improved control of emissions release, and / or prevention of icing and compressor surge. The combination of the EGR system and the IBH system allows the controller to selectively control the use of the system, thereby significantly reducing the size and complexity of the IBH system, as the EGR system complements the use of the IBH system. In some embodiments, the controller can selectively isolate the EGR system, placing the IBH system in standby mode, and therefore, the IBH does not need to pump compressed working fluid, thereby improving the efficiency of the power generation system.

[0098] In the embodiments described herein, the IE system heats the inlet working fluid before it enters the compressor inlet, thereby improving the partial-load efficiency of the gas turbine and / or improving the turbine's efficiency under operating conditions outside the turbine's full-load design point, while also preventing icing and / or compressor surge. In some embodiments, the IE system includes a controller that can variably adjust the mass flow rate or relative mass flow rate of the EGR system and the IBH system to achieve a desired operating state of the gas turbine engine. In some embodiments, the controller is communicatively coupled to one or more sensors and can adjust the mass flow rate in a real-time or periodic manner based on received sensor data and the target operating state. In some embodiments, the IBH system can be used solely to prevent compressor surge, and inlet air heating is primarily achieved through the EGR system. In some embodiments, while the EGR system continuously operates to heat the inlet air, the controller can selectively turn the IBH system on / off to prevent compressor surge.

[0099] This written description uses examples to disclose implementations of the systems and methods, including best practices, and also enables any person skilled in the art to practice the systems and methods, including making and using any device or system and performing any combined methods. The patentable scope of the systems and methods is defined by the claims and may include other examples that would occur to a person skilled in the art. Such other examples are contemplated within the scope of the claims if they have structural elements that are not different from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements that are not substantially different from the literal language of the claims.

Claims

1. An integrated system for use with a turbine, the integrated system comprising: An exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system, the exhaust gas recirculation system including an EGR flow control device for guiding the flow drawn from the turbine exhaust to an EGR recirculation location upstream of the compressor inlet; An inlet vent heating (IBH) system, the inlet vent heating system including an IBH flow control device for guiding a flow drawn from downstream of the compressor outlet to an IBH reflux position upstream of the compressor inlet; and A controller communicatively coupled to the EGR flow control device and the IBH flow control device, wherein the controller adjusts the relative flow of the EGR system and the IBH system in a variable manner.

2. The integrated system of claim 1, wherein the EGR flow control device is at least one of a pump, a blower, or an ejector.

3. The integrated system according to claim 1, wherein the IBH flow control device is a control valve.

4. The integrated system of claim 1, wherein the IBH is reintroduced at the IBH return location via an IBH manifold.

5. The integrated system according to claim 1, wherein, The integrated system also includes a temperature sensor configured to detect the temperature upstream of the compressor inlet.

6. The integrated system of claim 1, wherein the controller is configured to determine an icing event using data received from at least one temperature sensor.

7. The integrated system of claim 1, wherein the integrated system further comprises a pressure sensor configured to detect the operating pressure downstream of the compressor outlet.

8. The integrated system of claim 1, wherein the controller is configured to determine potential compressor surge events based on data received from a pressure sensor.

9. A power generation system, the power generation system comprising: The compressor is used to compress the working fluid; Burner; as well as An integrated system for use with a turbine, the integrated system comprising: An exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) system, the exhaust gas recirculation system including an EGR flow control device for guiding a flow drawn from the exhaust gas of the burner to an EGR recirculation location upstream of the compressor inlet; An inlet vent heating (IBH) system, the inlet vent heating system including an IBH flow control device for guiding a flow drawn downstream of the compressor outlet to an IBH reflux position upstream of the compressor inlet; and A controller communicatively coupled to the EGR flow control device and the IBH flow control device, wherein the controller selectively adjusts the relative flow of the EGR system and the IBH system.

10. The power generation system of claim 9, wherein the EGR flow control device is at least one of a pump, a blower, or an ejector.

11. The power generation system according to claim 9, wherein the IBH flow control device is a control valve.

12. The power generation system of claim 9, wherein the IBH is reintroduced at the IBH return location via an IBH manifold.

13. The power generation system of claim 9, wherein the integrated system further comprises a temperature sensor configured to detect the temperature upstream of the compressor inlet.

14. The power generation system of claim 9, wherein the integrated system further comprises a pressure sensor configured to detect the operating pressure downstream of the compressor outlet.

15. The power generation system of claim 9, wherein the controller is configured to determine potential compressor surge events based on data received from a pressure sensor.

16. A method of using an integrated system for a gas turbine engine, the method comprising: Receive sensor data from multiple sensors located at various points within the integrated system; The current operating status is determined based on the received sensor data; as well as Adjusting at least one of the flow parameters of the EGR system and the IBH system to improve the operating efficiency of the gas turbine engine.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein adjusting at least one of the flow parameters of the EGR system further comprises transmitting a signal to an EGR flow control device indicating the flow rate.

18. The method of claim 16, wherein receiving sensor data further includes receiving temperature data from a temperature sensor located upstream of the compressor.

19. The method of claim 16, wherein receiving sensor data further includes receiving pressure data from a pressure sensor located downstream of the compressor.

20. The method of claim 16, wherein adjusting at least one flow parameter of the EGR system further comprises: Heating the working fluid upstream of the compressor; and Adjust the flow parameters of the IBH system to prevent compressor surge.

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