Heat and pressure break the chemical bonds in the feedstock and form the syngas. Next, the syngas is cleaned using technologies commercially proven to remove particulates and sulfur. In the IGCC process, the syngas is fed into the gas turbine, which spins an electric generator. Hot combustion gases exiting the gas turbine generate steam in the heat-recovery steam generator. The steam then drives the steam turbine, which produces the remaining total electricity output.
Environmental improvements are a result of purifying the coal gas prior to combustion.
Integrating a gasifier into a powerplant does pose additional design requirements. A minimum heating value is required for the coal gas to efficiently combust in the gas turbine, and the gasification process must be carefully designed for integration and optimization of all processes crucial for overall plant efficiency. Process Power Plants LLC California's current energy woes intensify the national debate about the adequacy, cost, and environmental impact of the US power generation system. Once again we are reminded that there is no easy fix. A variety of energy sources as well as conservation are needed to meet the nation's current and future energy demands.