The next generation of power plants in the 21st century can be more efficient and affordable to consumers if plant operators have better ways to measure and control key operating conditions inside power generating systems.
Temperature is one of the principal examples.
Tomorrow's power fleet likely will be increasingly comprised of advanced plants that gasify coal rather than burning it. And optimum efficiency translates directly into low costs of electric power to consumers or lower cost liquid fuels and chemicals that can be made from the coal gas. The four cooperative agreements that the U.S. Department of Energy is awarding are intended to improve the accuracy and reliability of future temperature measurement systems. In addition to developing the actual measurement systems, the projects will analyze where the systems should be positioned, how they can be mounted and operated, and the best manner for preventing the systems from fouling. The system includes an optical access port and nitrogen purge system.