Performance of Coal Based Thermal Power Plant at Full Load and Part Loads

Abstract

Power is the critical for the economy development of a country. As the economy grows, the need for more and more power is self-justified. New power installations are capital intensive, and hence, there is urgent need for optimal utilization of existing capacities by efficiently running of thermal power stations and saving energy used as fuel or auxiliary power for running the installations. The present study aims at determining the actual performance of a coal based 210 MW power plant at full and part loads (210 MW and 195.86 MW). Design and actual performance values of boiler efficiency, specific fuel consumption, heat rate and overall efficiency are compared. During actual performance, although small deviations are observed from design values, they may result in substantial loss of revenue and excess operating expenditure. The possible reasons for deterioration are analysed and some possible remedies are suggested.