Online performance monitoring platform based on the whole process models of subcritical coal-fired power plants

Online performance monitoring is crucial for the safe and economical operation of thermal power plants. In this study, dynamic models of the whole process are established for the subcritical coal-fired power plant in terms of thermodynamic balances, which covers both boiler-side and turbine-side processes. Based on the whole process models, a monitoring platform is constructed with the functions of online estimation of key state variables and performance evaluation of the unit. The evaluation results of the unit efficiency with the time period of every 5 s may be provided. Model validations are carried out with the history operation data derived from the distributed control system (DCS) of a real 300 MW power plant. Comparisons between the simulation results and designed values of the unit demonstrate the high accuracy of the whole process models. The monitoring platform may also play the role as an offline simulator for the purpose of double check of the unit’s operation during specific time period and accidental cases.