New Clean Coal Cycle Optimized Using Pinch Technology

Abstract

High thermal efficiency and low levels of environmental emissions are priorities in the design of modern power plants. The M. W. Kellogg Company under funding from the Department of Energy, has recently completed a study of a new coal fueled system that would achieve these objectives. During the course of study, Pinch Technology was used to assist in the optimization of the process. The "hybrid cycle" is a second generation PFBC system, employing both gasification and combustion processes. High velocity transport reaction technology, developed originally for Fluid Catalytic Cracking plants, is used in the coal conversion steps; and pulverized limestone is circulated with the coal to capture the sulfur that is released during this process. Both gas turbines and steam turbines are used for power generation. Results from the study indicate that thermal efficiencies in excess of 45% are attainable, with very low NOx and SOx emissions and attractive capital costs. In this paper the hybrid cycle is described and key aspects of this new technology are explained. The benefits of using Pinch Technology as an optimization tool in this project are also presented.