Automating An Industrial Power Plant

Abstract

The need for an upgrade of boiler and turbine controls in the 15 MW coal-fired cogeneration plant at the John Deere Component Works had been anticipated for several years. Justification was based on electrical peak shaving, improved steam and electric generation efficiency, reduced controls maintenance, and reliability. Potential saving for the project was estimated at $860,000/year. The upgrading process began with a search for a design/ build contractor that could provide complete turn-key capability, beginning with a site survey and ending with operator acceptance. The contractor was selected through a group decision-making process which scored each contractor according to criteria weighted mathematically by importance. The contractor receiving the highest composite score was selected. All operating personnel were interviewed during the field survey portion of the project. In addition, their input was solicited during the design phase and they were kept well informed throughout the installation. During startup, they worked directly with contract personnel.