Multi-Spool Gas Turbine with Independent Generator Speed Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current gas turbine plants face inefficiencies at part-load conditions and high operational costs, limiting their adoption in distributed power generation due to lower electrical efficiency and higher energy production costs compared to centralized power plants.
Innovation Solution
A multi-spool gas turbine arrangement with at least three spools, each with a compressor and turbine, and multiple generators that operate independently to optimize power generation and control, allowing for efficient operation at part-load conditions and improved controllability.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single-spool gas turbine arrangement is used, then the structure is simple, but the electrical efficiency is low and controllability at part-load conditions is poor
Solution Approach 1:
The gas turbine is divided into multiple independent spools (high-pressure spool and low-pressure spool), each with its own compressor and turbine. This segmentation allows independent control of each spool's operating parameters, enabling the system to maintain high efficiency across a wider range of load conditions while improving electrical efficiency through optimized compression and expansion processes in each spool.
2Power
If a two-spool gas turbine arrangement is used, then more power can be produced with the same turbine inlet temperature, but the system complexity increases and part-load controllability remains insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The system is segmented into two spools with distinct functions: the high-pressure spool handles compression and power generation at higher pressures, while the low-pressure spool handles the remaining compression and power generation. This segmentation enables the system to produce more power from the same turbine inlet temperature by utilizing pressure cascading, while the independent control of each spool helps manage system complexity.
3Adaptability or versatility
If gas turbine operates at part-load conditions, then the output can be adjusted to match load demand, but the electrical efficiency quickly decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The control system dynamically adjusts the operating parameters of each spool independently based on load demands. At part-load conditions, the high-pressure spool can be optimized for efficiency while the low-pressure spool provides the necessary power adjustment. This dynamic, multi-variable control allows the system to maintain high electrical efficiency across a broader range of load conditions compared to single-spool systems.
4Loss of energy
If distributed power generation is implemented, then grid losses are reduced due to shorter transfer distances, but the energy production cost is higher compared to centralized plants
Solution Approach 1:
The gas turbine system utilizes parameter changes in the multi-spool configuration to optimize efficiency at part-load conditions. By independently controlling the pressure ratios and operating parameters of each spool, the system can maintain high electrical efficiency (reducing the energy production cost) while operating at variable loads typical of distributed generation, thereby achieving both reduced grid losses and competitive production costs.
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 multi-spool arrangement enhances efficiency and controllability, achieving over 60% electrical and rotational power output, reducing energy production costs and improving adaptability to varying load demands.
Implementation Method 1
a first combustor operable to combust or react a mixture of fuel so that compressed gas from the highest pressure compressor turns into gas with elevated temperature that is expanded in the highest pressure turbine to produce mechanical power
Data Source
AI summary
The invention concerns land-based gas turbine plants with a multi-spool gas turbine arrangement for generating electrical power to supply a load (200). The invention comprises at least three spools (10a-10c). Each of the at least three spools (10a-10c) comprises a shaft (11a-11c), a compressor (C1-C3) and a turbine (T1-T3). Each one of the shafts (11a-11c) of the at least three spools (10a-10c) are independently rotatable with respect to each other. The invention further comprises electrical generators (G1-G3) mounted on each of the shafts (11a-11c) of the at least three spools (10a-10c), the output power of the generators being independently controllable and at least 60 percent of a total output power supplied to said load (200) in a form of electrical and rotational power is generated by the at least three generators (G1-G3) in the form of electrical energy.