Turbine Combustor Mode Transfer Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional methods for controlling combustion mode transfers in gas turbines are not optimized in real-time and are based on single machine-level parameters, failing to adapt to varying ambient conditions and target combustion parameters, leading to suboptimal performance and emissions.
Innovation Solution
A system and method that utilize a controller and processor to evaluate combustor transfer functions, estimate operating limits for different combustion modes under current conditions, and select the optimal mode based on comparisons with target limits, allowing for real-time adjustments and flexible operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If combustion mode transfers are scheduled against a single machine-level parameter with hard-coded control, then the control system is simple and easy to implement, but it cannot adapt to varying ambient conditions or optimize combustion performance in real-time
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic combustion mode selection by evaluating multiple operating parameters (inlet temperature, pressure, humidity, combustion mode limits) in real-time rather than using fixed hard-coded schedules. The controller dynamically determines optimal combustion modes based on current ambient conditions and machine state, allowing the system to adapt flexibly to varying environments while maintaining manageable complexity through structured evaluation logic.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes from a single-parameter scheduling approach to a multi-parameter evaluation approach. By considering inlet temperature, pressure, humidity, and combustion mode limits simultaneously, the system achieves better adaptability to ambient conditions. The controller evaluates how these parameters interact to determine optimal combustion modes, transforming the control strategy from static to parameter-driven dynamic optimization.
2Productivity
If combustion mode transfers are scheduled against a single machine-level parameter, then the control logic is simple, but combustion performance and emissions cannot be optimized across various ambient conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The system employs dynamic evaluation of combustion modes based on real-time operating conditions rather than static pre-programmed schedules. The controller continuously assesses inlet temperature, pressure, humidity, and combustion mode limits to determine optimal combustion modes, enabling real-time optimization of combustion efficiency and emissions across varying ambient conditions while maintaining structured control logic.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system achieves multi-functionality by simultaneously optimizing for multiple objectives: combustion efficiency, emissions compliance, and operational reliability. The evaluation framework considers multiple operating parameters and combustion mode limits together, allowing a single control system to handle diverse optimization goals without requiring separate control mechanisms for each objective.
3Ease of operation
If hard-coded transfer strategies are used during design phase, then implementation is straightforward, but real-time optimization of combustion across various ambient conditions is not provided
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary evaluation of combustion mode limits and operating parameters before making mode transfer decisions. By pre-establishing the evaluation framework and parameter relationships during system setup, the controller can efficiently execute real-time optimization without complex runtime calculations. This preliminary structuring maintains ease of operation while enabling adaptive real-time control.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system implements feedback by continuously monitoring operating parameters (inlet temperature, pressure, humidity) and combustion mode limits, then using this information to dynamically adjust combustion mode selections. The feedback loop enables real-time optimization while maintaining straightforward operation through automated decision-making based on measured conditions rather than manual intervention.
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods for controlling mode transfers of a turbine combustor are provided. According to one embodiment, a system may include a controller to control a combustor, and a processor communicatively coupled to the controller. The processor may be configured to receive current operating conditions, target operating limits, and combustor transfer functions. The combustor transfer functions may be evaluated to estimate operating limits associated with one or more combustion modes under the current operating conditions. The estimated operating limits associated with the one or more combustor modes may be compared to the target operating limits, and, based on the comparison, at least one of the combustion modes may be selected. The combustor may then be selectively transferred to the selected combustion mode.