Gas Turbine Intercooler Control for Power Optimization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing gas turbine systems face inefficiencies in optimizing the temperature of the oxidant entering the compressor, which affects power generation, as further lowering temperatures can lead to reduced performance.
Innovation Solution
A control system with a processor that calculates a bias to adjust the temperature of the oxidant entering the compressor, using operational parameters to optimize power output by controlling the intercooler's operation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If the temperature of the oxidant entering the compressor is lowered, then the power output of the gas turbine is improved, but the temperature control precision deteriorates due to lack of optimization
Solution Approach 1:
The system dynamically adjusts the oxidant temperature by modifying operational parameters such as intercooler valve positions and coolant flow rates. The controller calculates a bias value based on measured operational parameters and uses this to adjust the temperature setpoint, enabling precise temperature control that optimizes power output while preventing overheating.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system continuously monitors operational parameters including oxidant temperature, compressor inlet temperature, and turbine performance. This feedback is used to calculate the bias and adjust the intercooler operation in real-time, ensuring the oxidant temperature is maintained at the optimal level for maximum power output while preventing temperature extremes.
2Productivity
If the temperature of the oxidant is not optimized, then the system operation is simplified, but the power output and efficiency deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The control system automatically optimizes oxidant temperature without requiring manual intervention. The processor continuously calculates the bias based on operational parameters and autonomously adjusts the intercooler operation, enabling the system to self-optimize power output while maintaining simple user interaction through automatic control.
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically changes operational parameters including intercooler valve positions, coolant flow rates, and temperature setpoints based on real-time conditions. This automated parameter optimization maximizes power output while the control algorithm manages the complexity of coordinating multiple parameters.
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
The system effectively improves power output by maintaining optimal inlet temperatures, preventing overheating and ensuring efficient operation within predetermined temperature limits.
Implementation Method 1
Gas turbines may include an intercooler to cool the temperature of the oxidant entering the turbine
Data Source
AI summary
A control system for a gas turbine includes a controller. The controller includes a processor configured to access an operational parameter associated with the gas turbine. The processor is configured to calculate a bias based on the operational parameter, wherein the bias indicates an amount of change in a temperature of an oxidant entering a compressor of the turbine to reach a reference temperature. The processor is further configured to control the temperature of the oxidant based on the bias to improve power output of the gas turbine.