Generator Sets in Combined-Cycle Power Plants

Reliability under any situation and circumstance

Introduction
Combined-cycle power plants
Generator set uses in combined-cycle power plants
Generator set characteristics
Genesal Energy can help you

Introduction

A combined-cycle power plant carries out a double generation of power in the same plant which through two thermodynamic cycles. Usually, on the one hand, a gas turbine is in charge of moving an electric generator, and on the other hand, a steam turbine moves a second generator.

The gas turbine, normally employing natural gas, generates its own movement via a combustion cycle and, in turn, moves an electric generator in a similar way as a generator set would. Its objective is to produce electricity for consumption.

From this process of combustion, amongst other things and in addition to the energy which is taken advantage of, the hot exhaust gases which would usually be expelled from the system are obtained. However in this case, before being expelled, their heat is taken advantage of to, through an exchanger, heat water and produce the steam which will form part of the second generation system. This steam will be used to move a second turbine which in turn will move a second electric generator.

The fact that energy is harnessed twice this way, means that the power efficiency in these types of power plants is much greater than in simple generation power plants. Another advantage is that these power plants feature excellent dynamics which allow for a fast and precise adjustment of the electrical networks, and as such, the electricity supply networks are more stable and reliable.
By contrast, the use of two thermal cycles for power generation makes their control and installation more complex.

Its objective is to produce electricity for consumption.

Combined-cycle power plants

A combined-cycle power plant is a high performance option for power generation with reduced consumption in comparison to conventional power plants. This means it can be considered an economical power plant. Furthermore, due to its typology, it has great dynamic behaviour when it comes to adapting to the power network’s requirements.

The use of generator sets is unquestionable in order to make its reliability and availability more valuable, as they guarantee the reliability of the facility facing any situation and circumstance. Only then is the power plant the main element in the electricity distribution network.

The use of generator sets is unquestionable in order to make its reliability and availability more valuable.

Generator set uses in combined cycle power plants

As in every industrial facility, the use of generator sets is recommended for both the safety of the plant and the people inside. Furthermore, in the case of a power generation plan, they’re a necessary alternative for startup or as a complementary or backup system inside the very power generation system.

Therefore, generator sets have two main uses:

Generator sets for security

In the event of a mains failure or a similar breakdown, they allow the control and security systems to remain operative. This is very important because in facilities of this nature, explosive and flammable fuels are employed. This means that it is crucial the facility can be guided to a state of security, no matter the situation. Likewise, generator sets that can guarantee the security of the people inside such a complex industrial infrastructure, where there are numerous health risks, are essential. Therefore, in both cases we need emergency generator sets to ensure the plant’s electricity and minimal essential services.

Generator sets as power input to the system

For instance, to allow startup in the cogeneration plant from a state of complete shutdown. In this case, the genset will provide the power required by the startup and control systems and will be able to supply, should the system need it, an initial synchronization network. In some cases, this kind of generator sets is used in environments with weak or offline networks which use generator sets as supplementary or backup power for the mains.

Generator set features

Due to the complexity of combined-cycle power plants and the diversity in their uses, the generator sets for this type of applications are designed made-to-measure, engineered specially for each project according to the client’s needs. Only then can they respond precisely to each of the facility’s requirements.

The generator sets must be sturdy and highly reliable and, of course, be available immediately, responding to the required power demand and in the face of any given need.

In the case of emergency generator sets, they must be able to detect a mains failure and start up in mere seconds. They also must be able to operate continuously until the failure has been resolved or until it’s guided the power plant to a secure state and guaranteed the safety of those working inside.

If it’s a generator set designed to assist the mains, whether that be a startup from zero or as a backup in the event of a specific need or failure, it has to be able to operate on demand. Furthermore, it will supply the necessary power for the network, adapting to the demand and complementing the combined-cycle power plant.

In a complex facility of great dimensions, instead of one generator set, it’s not unusual for there to be a system of generator sets operating redundantly, as supplementary units, etc.

Nevertheless, it’s essential in all cases to have a complex and well studied control system, capable of communicating with the facility it’s providing service for. All of this will enable a good management and supervision of the generator sets by the client.

In this sense, it’s extremely important that the generator sets are duly supervised and maintained in order to ensure their correct operation.

Genesal Energy can help you

When we need a generator set or a system of generator sets for a combined-cycle power plant, we face an extremely complex engineering project which requires not only a strict compliance with the different regulations, but also maximum service. Genesal Energy is the best option to carry out this task with maximum guarantees. The following are some of the reasons why:

Genesal Energy has a wide range of technicians and engineers which are prepared to help you find the best solution adapted to your needs.
In the event of a breakdown, we will be there to assist you. We’ll quickly get your genset running.

We design, develop, manufacture, validate and install generator sets and of course, we help to maintain your equipment ready for startup at any moment.
We have the greatest technicians, with great knowledge on generator sets, and an extensive range of spare parts in stock in order to carry out repairs or maintenance tasks.

We love innovation and we apply it in each of our departments. We can count on the most modern developments in fields such as remote management and monitoring of generator sets.

Genesal Energy is always ready to provide the most efficient solution. A bespoke generator set adapted to each client. You can find us at consultas@genesal.com.

Generator Sets in Combined-Cycle Power Plants

Reliability under any situation and circumstance

Introduction

A combined-cycle power plant carries out a double generation of power in the same plant which through two thermodynamic cycles. Usually, on the one hand, a gas turbine is in charge of moving an electric generator, and on the other hand, a steam turbine moves a second generator.

Its objective is to produce electricity for consumption.

Combined-cycle power plants

The use of generator sets is unquestionable in order to make its reliability and availability more valuable.

Generator set uses in combined cycle power plants

Therefore, generator sets have two main uses:

Generator sets for security

Generator sets as power input to the system

Generator set features

Genesal Energy can help you

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How to connect a genset in industrial or commercial installations

Energy safety in the fight against climate change: risks and opportunities

What is it and how does the Mains/Genset switch work?

How much is a generator set worth: Key factors in calculating the price

Do you need a generator set?

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