QUALITY EVALUATION OF A THERMAL POWER PLANT BY GRAPH-THEORETICAL METHODOLOGY

Abstract

The authors provide a computationally simple and efficient methodology of evaluating the quality index of a thermal power plant (TPP) and of selecting best-quality TPP. The methodology is based on graph theory, matrix algebra, and permanent models, and this takes into account the complexities and interactions of various characteristics of the TPP. The various conflicting parameters of the TPP and their interactions/interconnections are identified and represented by the variable quality characteristic matrix (VCM-ss) and connectivity characteristic matrix (VCM-c). The permanent model yields the quality index of the TPP, which is a permanent value of the TPP quality permanent matrix (VPM-q). The qualitative analysis of the quality of a TPP through quality index is proposed by means of conventional and fuzzy set theories. The method permits analysis and comparison of design as well as the operating state of the system. The quality index is a useful aid for designers in the selection of a suitable TPP based on requirements. The methodology is explained with an example.