Simultaneous boiler optimization of efficiency, emission, and reliability utilizing neural network modeling

Technical Report · Mon Jul 01 04:00:00 EDT 1996

OSTI ID:401957

Chang, P S; Poston, J

Boiler performance optimization includes the preservation of efficiency, emission, capacity, and reliability. Competitive pressures require cost reduction and environmental compliance. It is a challenge for utility personnel to balance these requirements and to achieve specific company goals. Unfortunately, these requirements often demand tradeoffs. The Clean Air Act Amendment requires Utilities to reduce NO{sub x} emission. NO{sub x} emission reduction has often been accomplished by installation of new low NO{sub x} burners. Boiler tuning for NO{sub x} control can be used as an alternative to low NO{sub x} burner installation. A PC-based computer software program was developed to assist the tuning process. This software, System Optimization Analysis Program (SOAP), is a neural network based code which uses the self-adaptation learning process, with an adaptive filter added for data noise control. SOAP can use historical data as the knowledge base and it provides a fast optimal solution to adaptive control problems. SOAP was tested at several fossil plants. The tests were primarily for NO{sub x} reduction, but the performance parameters were optimized simultaneously.

• Research Organization: Electric Power Research Inst., Palo Alto, CA (United States); Baltimore Gas and Electric Co., MD (United States)
• OSTI ID: 401957
• Report Number(s): EPRI-TR--106753; CONF-960719--
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

20 FOSSIL-FUELED POWER PLANTS
AIR POLLUTION CONTROL
BOILERS
COMPUTERIZED SIMULATION
FOSSIL-FUEL POWER PLANTS
MAINTENANCE
NEURAL NETWORKS
NITROGEN OXIDES
OPTIMIZATION
PERFORMANCE
RELIABILITY
USES