Use of Multiple-Path Ultrasonic Transit-Time Flowmeter Systems Helps Optimize Power Plant Performance

摘要

As a result of increased fuel costs and deregulated markets within the thermal power industry, power plant efficiency has become an important focus for power generation companies. A change of one percentage point in the thermal operating efficiency for a large modern turbine generator is equivalent to about 15-20 million dollars when capitalized over its working life. This paper presents a description and discussion of implementing a multiple-path ultrasonic transit-time flowmeter for monitoring the circulating cooling water system at La Cygne Generating Station (South of Kansas City, Kansas). Unique flexibility in providing installation alternatives and superior flowrate measurement capability associated with this flowmetering technology provided significant advantages for this type of power plant application. Specific benefits for improving overall power generation efficiency and reducing plant maintenance requirements are a principal focus of the discussion that is presented, based on actual real-world experience in the challenging competitive environment in which steam-generated power providers must operate today.