Assessment of the thermal performance of a coal-fired power plant boiler unit

Assessment of the thermal performance of a coal-fired power plant boiler unit is presented with an aim to increase the boiler efficiency. Thermal efficiency of the boiler unit was determined and analysed according to the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) test code and using energy balance method of calculation. Performance test of the boiler unit was conducted for two different mill patterns, Pattern 1: ABCE and Pattern 2: BDEF. These patterns had different burning zones within the boiler unit. The data obtained from the plant show that the boiler efficiency is 90.35% for Pattern 1 and 90.75% for Pattern 2. The areas of high energy losses which require further investigation for efficient operation and maintenance are identified and recommended to the plant authority. Energy conservation measures should be introduced in the areas of high energy losses for improving the boiler efficiency.