Optimising the operating characteristics in RDK

Combined Cycle Gas Turbine (CCGT) power plants are very easy to regulate. They can be started up from standstill to full load within 60 minutes. Furthermore, they are environmentally-friendly and cost-effective due to the fuel they use. In other words, they are just what is required for an efficient power station network in a deregulated power market. EnBW is operating such a CCGT power plant and is trying to optimise its operation.

In contrast to other turbines, fuel is again injected into the exhaust of the high-pressure turbine via a second combustion system which automatically ignites in the next annular combustor. In this way, the gas is reheated before it expands in a four-stage low-pressure turbine. With this method, the gas turbine produces less pollutants without reducing efficiency.