About Al Hall Expertise I can answer questions concerning: electric power generation, boilers, turbines, thermodynamic efficiency, heat transfer, fluid dynamics, computer modeling, PEPSE modeling expert
I can not answer questions regarding: electricity, generators, circuit analysis, controls, mechanics of materials, structural design, chemistry, and civil engineering
Experience I have 20 years experience working for electric power generators all over the US, as well as the world. I have taught courses in power plant performance testing, I have written subroutines for the PEPSE software (the Cadillac of the power plant modeling software). I have experience with fluidized bed combustion. I have experience with a variety of projects designing equipment, modifying processes, evaluating equipment life using NDT techniques.
Publications Presented papers at the performance software users group.
Education/Credentials Bachelors and Masters Degrees from the University of North Dakota in Grand Forks, North Dakota.
Question QUESTION: I work in a production facility with 3 steam turbines. I am curious about the following; I would like to increase the set pressure of our automatic vent to atmosphere which we vent periodically due to various productions changes. But I am concerned by raising the setpoint to vent excess steam to atmosphere will it require more inlet steam? I guess bottom line will it be worth the savings to do so?
ANSWER: This question is right up my alley. However, I will need to know much more information. Please reply to my email address: BTUchaser@Yahoo.com.
-Exactly what steam are you venting?
-What is the point in the cycle is it that you are proposing to change the set pressure?
-What are the steam conditions for which you will be venting?
Im sure that the precise answer would require computer modeling, but an estimate is in order.
Thanks,
Al
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: I would be venting steam from our 50# main header. I guess I should also add the following. I have 3 Elliott DYR turbines with a 550# inlet and 50# exhaust steam.
We currently vent to atmosphere on an as needed basis.. I would like to raise our setpoint from 58# to approx 60-62#.
The steam conditions upon venting would be 58# at 340 degrees desuperheated.
I hope this is what you needed, I appreciate the help.
Thanks.
Answer I do not really have much experience working with steam turbines that exhaust at such a high pressure, However, Provided that the exaust temperature does not cause any problems with the turbine manufacturer, than Im sure it would be alright. I would suggest using a mollier diagram to determine just how much the steam temperatures would increase.
Im sure that the Elliot people can tell you about the turbine.
