Measured Performance Signature Method

Abstract

The performance correction of systems that have many thermally integrated components is complex and subject to error if individual component misperformance and/or deterioration is present. The performance correction involves a set of equations or curves which relate the expected changes in dependent performance parameters (i.e. output, fuel consumption, etc.) to changes in the dependent parameters defining a standard condition (i.e. ambient temperatures, pressure, fuel composition, etc.). These relations and curves are usually generated by vendor performance programs which reflect the design data of the given plant components. However, such relations and curves applied to the overall correction of thermally integrated components can introduce significant correction error if the equipment performance differs from the expected design values. This can be particularly important in acceptance testing and base line monitoring of older plants where performance deterioration has occurred. The performance testing or monitoring of power plants requires that results be corrected to a given reference or standard condition. This correction procedure may be used in various applications, including determining compliance to a guarantee that is specified to a given reference, to compare different plants under similar operating conditions, and/or to track the performance of a given plant with time on a consistent basis. A Measured Performance Signature (MPS) approach has been developed to improve integrated system performance corrections. This procedure is useful for acceptance testing and continuous performance monitoring of industrial cogeneration plants or any energy system. The plant performance signature, is determined from on-line measurements, and corrected to a specified reference. This procedure provides information for adaptive on-line optimum dispatch, equipment performance monitoring, or for conducting system "what if' scenarios. The MPS is a very useful technique which may be applied to Acceptance Testing Monitoring and Operations Optimization. The technique is general and can be applied to all types of plant equipment and configurations.