Load Optimization By Steam And Blade Washing In A Flash Type Power Plant-A Case Study Of Olkaria II.

Abstract

With generator load as the key factor, this paper focuses on both maintenance and running equipment parameters and their effect on the load. The parameters of interest in this studywere turbine inlet pressure, steam flow rate, steam chest pressure (Bowl pressure) and generator loading. For this study, Olkaria II power station data was used. From this data, it was observed that after a few years of operation, even with the steam chest pressure increasing from 2.5 bar g to 4.1 bar g and increase in steam consumption the turbine power generation decreased to 26.4Mw out of the rated capacity of 35.0Mw. This led to dismantling of the turbine in question for inspection which led to the discovery that significant Sulphur deposition, scaling and related compounds had occurred thus reducing the turbine efficiency. The purpose of this research was to explore blade washing and steam washing operation procedures for removal of silica scaling and deposition at the turbine blades and nozzles, improving the geothermal power plant efficiency through addressing scales and mineral deposition for improvement of plant performance and productivity.