Instead, it gradually turns to steam with no sudden expansion. Water is passed through tubes in the boiler to absorb the heat from the burning coal. During the combustion process, carbon and hydrogen in the coal are converted to carbon dioxide and water. The flue gas contains small non-combustible particles called fly ash. The filter removes more than 99.8 per cent of this particulate matter and reduces associated mercury emissions.
Heavier ash falls to the bottom of the boiler where it is extracted as bottom ash.
The recycled steam is returned as water to the boiler to repeat the cycle. This high voltage electricity is transmitted into the Alberta Interconnected Electric System, and is distributed throughout the province. The preliminary assessment indicates that, subject to minor modifications, the existing transmission infrastructure is capable of supporting the addition of Genesee Phase 3 generation into the Alberta grid. Recognized as the best available commercial technology for this project, the third unit will increase efficiency by an estimated eight to 10 per cent, compared to the existing units. One of the key considerations for the new plant design is emissions control.