Introduction to Modern Coal Power Plants
Coal power plants convert the chemical energy stored in coal into electricity. They are still vital sources of energy in many parts of the world.
by Dr. Anbumalar.V MECH1112
Components of a Coal Power Plant
Fuel Handling and Preparation
Coal is transported to the plant and processed, including crushing and pulverizing, to prepare it for combustion.
Boiler and Steam Generation
Pulverized coal is burned in a boiler to heat water and generate steam at high pressure and temperature.
Turbine and Generator
High-pressure steam drives a turbine, which rotates a generator to produce electricity.
Fuel Handling and Preparation
1
Coal Delivery
Coal arrives by train or barge and is unloaded into storage areas.
2
Crushing and Pulverizing
Coal is crushed to reduce its size and pulverized into a fine powder for efficient combustion.
3
Coal Feeding
Pulverized coal is transported by air to the boiler, where it is injected into the furnace.
Boiler and Steam Generation
1
Furnace
The pulverized coal burns in the furnace, releasing heat energy.
2
Water Tubes
Water circulates through tubes in the boiler, absorbing heat from the furnace gases.
3
Steam Drum
Steam is collected in a drum, where it is separated from water and sent to the turbine.
4
Superheater
The steam is superheated to increase its temperature and efficiency.
Turbine and Generator
Steam Turbine
High-pressure steam expands through the turbine, causing the turbine blades to rotate.
Generator
The rotating turbine shaft drives the generator, which converts mechanical energy into electricity.
Alternator
The generator produces alternating current (AC) electricity, which is transmitted to the grid.
Cooling Systems
Condenser
After passing through the turbine, steam is condensed back into water, releasing heat.
Cooling Towers
Cooling towers dissipate the heat from the condenser water into the atmosphere.
Cooling Water System
Cooling water circulates through the condenser and cooling towers to maintain optimal operating temperatures.
Emissions Control and Environmental Considerations
Sulfur Dioxide (SO2)
Scrubbers remove SO2 from flue gases.
Nitrogen Oxides (NOx)
Selective catalytic reduction (SCR) systems reduce NOx emissions.
Particulate Matter (PM)
Electrostatic precipitators or fabric filters capture PM.
Mercury
Activated carbon injection or other methods are used to reduce mercury emissions.
Conclusion and Future Trends
Renewable Energy Sources
There is increasing emphasis on renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and hydropower.
Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS)
CCS technologies are being developed to capture and store carbon dioxide emissions.
Energy Efficiency
Efforts are focused on improving energy efficiency in industries and homes to reduce coal consumption.
Coal Power Plant Modernization
Modernization of existing coal power plants to improve efficiency and reduce emissions.