An Overview Of Cogeneration Technology - Design, Operation And Maintenance.

Abstract

The growth of cogeneration technology started in the 1960s, but has recently accelerated with several users interested in cogeneration applications. An overview of cogeneration technology is presented, with current experience and prospects, including problem areas, in cogeneration plants detailed. An emphasis is placed on gas turbine based cogeneration systems, as these will account for over 50 percent of the market in the future. As the literature covering cogeneration is so varied, several concepts with references are brought together. The area of reliability, availability and maintainability is addressed in depth, as this is an area where the literature is somewhat lacking. Some future concepts that will have an impact on cogeneration are also discussed, including the use of closed gas turbine cycles, fluidized beds and dual fluid cycles.