Cogeneration System Switching for Reverse Power Flow Prevention
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Solution Overview
Problem
Cogeneration systems face challenges in preventing reverse power flow into the commercial power network during outages while maximizing electric power supply to the electrical load, as existing systems either shut down or limit power output.
Innovation Solution
A cogeneration system with a first and second power plant connected to the AC power feed line, a switch to interrupt power supply from the first power plant to the network during outages, and a power plant operator to synchronize and increase power output from both plants to the electrical load, preventing reverse flow and maximizing power supply.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the cogeneration system is shut down during power network outage, then reverse power flow into the network is prevented, but power supply to the electrical load is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The system divides the power supply function into two separate power plants (first and second power plants). The first power plant handles normal operation and can be isolated using a switch, while the second power plant is specifically activated during outages to supply the load, allowing independent control of each plant's operation mode
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes its configuration based on network status. During normal operation, the first power plant supplies power with the option to disconnect from the network. During outages, the system transitions to using the second power plant, adapting its power supply structure to the current operational requirements
2Power
If the cogeneration system operates at inherent maximum output during power network outage, then power supply to the electrical load is maintained, but the maximum power that can be supplied is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The system combines the output of two separate power plants (first and second power plants) to supply the electrical load during outages. By merging their power outputs, the system achieves greater total power supply capability than either plant could provide alone, overcoming the limitation of single-plant maximum output
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Effectively prevents reverse power flow into the network and maximizes electric power supply to the load by synchronizing and increasing output from both power plants during outages, ensuring reliable power delivery to essential appliances.
Implementation Method 1
a first power plant connected to an AC power feed line between a power network and an electrical load and a first internal combustion engine for driving the first power plant such that exhaust heat of the first engine is supplied to a thermal load
Data Source
AI summary
In a cogeneration system having a first power plant connected to an AC power feed line between a power network and an electrical load and a first internal combustion engine for driving the first power plant such that exhaust heat of the first engine is supplied to a thermal load, power supply from the first power plant to the power network is interrupted by turning off a switch installed in the feed line, when outage of the power network is detected and a second power plant is operated, such that outputs of the first and second power plants are supplied to the electrical load. With this, it becomes possible to respond to a commercial power network outage for preventing reverse flow of the power output by the cogeneration system into the power network and supplying as much electric power as possible to the electrical load.