Variable Feedwater Heater Cycle for Power Plant Efficiency
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Solution Overview
Problem
Power plants face inefficiencies due to the need for varying final feedwater temperatures to optimize power output and efficiency across different fuel types and operating conditions, which existing systems struggle to actively control effectively.
Innovation Solution
A variable feedwater heating system with a turbine having multiple valved steam extraction ports connected to a steam extraction line, controlled by a system that opens and closes valves to achieve a desired final feedwater temperature, optimizing steam extraction and delivery to feedwater heaters.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single feedwater extraction port is used, then the system structure is simple, but the final feedwater temperature cannot be actively controlled to optimize efficiency at different operating conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The single extraction port is segmented into multiple extraction ports at different locations on the turbine. Each port can be independently controlled via separate valves, allowing selective steam extraction to achieve desired feedwater temperatures across varying operating conditions without requiring complete system redesign.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from a static single-port extraction design to a dynamic multi-port design where valve positions and extraction rates can be actively adjusted. This enables real-time optimization of feedwater temperature in response to changing plant load and operating conditions.
2Ease of operation
If multiple steam extraction ports are added to enable temperature control, then the adaptability to different operating conditions is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The multiple extraction ports serve multiple functions: they enable temperature control, accommodate different fuel types, optimize efficiency at various loads, and provide flexibility for future operational requirements. This multi-functionality justifies the added complexity by delivering comprehensive operational versatility.
3Productivity
If the final feedwater temperature is not optimized, then the system operation is simple, but the power plant efficiency and power output are reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The control system continuously monitors feedwater temperature and plant operating conditions, then automatically adjusts valve positions on the extraction ports. This closed-loop feedback control ensures optimal feedwater temperature is maintained across varying loads, maximizing thermal efficiency and power output without requiring manual intervention.
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
This solution allows for precise control of final feedwater temperature, enhancing power plant efficiency and flue gas management, thereby optimizing power output and reducing energy loss across different operational conditions.
Implementation Method 1
a turbine having a plurality of valved steam extraction ports fluidly connected to a steam extraction line for delivering steam to a feedwater heater
Data Source
AI summary
A structure, system, and method for controlling a power output and flue gas temperature of a power plant by adjusting final feedwater temperature are disclosed herein. In an embodiment, a turbine having a plurality of valved steam extraction ports is provided. Each steam extraction port is fluidly connected with a feedwater heater. Each of the plurality of valves in the valved steam extraction ports may be opened and closed to the passage of steam therethrough, in order to vary a final feedwater temperature.