95/06395 The Power Systems Development Facility at Wilsonville, Alabama

Abstract

One of the Morgantown Energy Technology Center`s (METC`s) goals is to: {open_quotes}Commercialize Advanced Power Systems with improved environmental performance, higher efficiency, and lower cost. {close_quotes} Advanced coal-based power generation systems include Integrated Gasification Combined Cycle (IGCC), Pressurized Fluidized- Bed Combustion (PFBC), and Integrated Gasification/Fuel Cell systems. The strategy for achieving this goal includes: (1) Show the improved performance and lower cost of Advanced Power Systems through successful Clean Coal Technology demonstration projects, (2) Build and operate Technology Integration Sites in partnership with U.S. Industry (these sites will resolve key technology issues and effect continuous product improvement, and these partnerships result in leveraging of research and development (R&D) funds), and (3) Set up partnerships with other agencies and organizations such as Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI) to leverage R&D funds and skills. Demonstration of practical high-temperature particulate control devices (PCD`s) is crucial to the evolution of advanced, high- efficiency coal-based power generation systems. There are stringent particulate requirements for the fuel gas for both turbines and fuel cells. In turbines, the particulates cause erosion and chemical attack of the blade surfaces. In fuel cells, the particulates cause blinding of the electrodes. Filtration of the incoming, hot, pressurized gas is required to protect these units. Although filtration can presently be performed by first cooling the gas, the system efficiency is reduced. Development of high temperature, high pressure filtration is necessary to achieve high efficiency and extend the lifetime of downstream components to acceptable levels.