Field Testing of Membrane Separation System for Continual Removal of Non-Condensable Gases from Binary Power Plants

摘要

A membrane-separation system for continual removal of non-condensable gases from binary plant condenser vapor has been built and is undergoing testing. Previous reports have described its principles of operation, design, and results of testing in an isopentane-working-fluid unit. These results indicated that the unit is capable of maintaining a low noncondensable gas inventory in the plant condenser. In addition, loss of working fluid resulting from condenser-purging operations was reduced to a fraction of its previous value through use of the continuous removal system. Tests being performed in an isobutane-working-fluid plant have indicated that system modification is needed for unattended long-term operation. These modifications were made in April/May 2004, and testing has resumed. The host plant currently operates with a severe, atypical air intake rate, testing the removal system's performance at a purge rate several times its design operation. This paper reports the results of the ongoing tests.