Thermal Power Plant Control System Using Pre-Processed Set Points
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Solution Overview
Problem
Thermal power plants face inefficiencies in demand adjustment and fault detection due to the lack of continuous integration of plant data specifications with control systems, leading to prolonged ramp-up and ramp-down times and unnoticed degradation of furnace performance.
Innovation Solution
A method and control system that utilize plant data specifications to periodically update set points for control loops, integrate feed forward techniques, and include modules for set point correction and fault identification, enabling efficient control and timely detection of faults by using plant data specifications to adjust control parameters and actuator signals based on demand and generation differences.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If plant data specifications are not continuously integrated with control systems, then control simplicity is maintained, but ramp-up and ramp-down times are prolonged and fault detection is delayed
Solution Approach 1:
The patent pre-processes and stores optimal set-point data from manufacturer datasheets into a structured database during plant commissioning. This preliminary action enables the control system to quickly retrieve and apply pre-validated parameters during operation, reducing ramp-up and ramp-down times without adding real-time computational complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces an intermediate database layer that stores pre-processed plant data specifications between the manufacturer's datasheets and the DCS control system. This intermediary structure allows efficient data retrieval and comparison, enabling fast control responses while keeping the DCS architecture relatively simple.
2Reliability
If traditional control modes are used without datasheet integration, then system simplicity is maintained, but fault detection capability is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements feedback by continuously comparing actual plant performance parameters against the stored optimal values from manufacturer datasheets. When deviations exceed thresholds, the system generates alerts for potential faults, enabling proactive maintenance without requiring complex diagnostic algorithms.
3Productivity
If manual control procedures are used, then operational simplicity is maintained, but response time to demand changes is prolonged
Solution Approach 1:
The patent pre-calculates and stores optimal control set-points for various load conditions in the database. When demand changes occur, the control system automatically retrieves the appropriate pre-computed set-points, enabling rapid response without requiring operators to perform complex manual calculations or adjustments.
Data Source
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AI summary
The invention relates to control and fault analysis method in a thermal power plant by use of plant data specification during normal operation of the plant. The method comprises a) obtaining at least one set point information from the provided plant data specification containing list of process parameters and process outputs (S001, S002); b) controlling one or more control loops by providing set points for control based on the obtained one or more set point information from the plant data specification to operate the thermal power plant (S005); c) identifying gaps in controlling the said one or more control loops in the thermal power plant specification and iteratively manipulating at least one set point to meet the demand (S006); d) updating the plant data specification based on the manipulated at least one set point used to meet the demand (S007); and e) using the updated plant data specification for control of the plant to meet the demand (S004). A control system based on the method is also provided.