Advantages of Ultra Super Critical
Technology in Power Generation

Presented by Hans Henrik Poulsen, BWE, at International Conference on Clean Coal Technologies for our Future CCT2005
May 10-12 2005, Sardinia, Italy

Abstract

Since 1980 it has been normal to design utility power units for supercritical steam data. Through the 1990s this development entered the USC (Ultra Super Critical) range meaning live steam pressure higher than 275 bar at full plant load. The reason behind such development is to reach still higher efficiencies and by doing so at the same time qualify as the best CCT (Clean Coal Technology). The situation today and the future development will be described for the main parts of a unit.

The Power Cycle will be described in 2 different designs: Single and Double reheat systems; explaining differences and advantages, discussing the challenges. The various operation modes like Condensing and CHP modes will be explained.

The Boiler Island will have a BWE tower type boiler design having tangential firing for pulverized coal. The island will be shown in a one train design which can be realised up to 600 or 700 MW size. The selection of materials will be a focus issue. Operation hours of the first USC CCT unit will be reported. Single and double reheat systems will be compared.

Conclusion: Experiences from 6 years of operation by the oldest unit will be summarised. The possible lines of development of CCT in the future will be indicated. The worldwide need for new capacity will be discussed as seen by suppliers to the power industry.