Fast payback on steam turbine cogeneration systems makes this power source an attractive option across numerous industries. This is according to Leandro Magro, manager steam turbines at Zest WEG Group, who explains that any industry with a boiler installed has a potential for cogeneration using a steam turbine. “The electricity cost savings usually pay back the investment in less than three years, but this payback period can be further reduced depending on the applicable electricity price tariff in effect,” he adds.
Power plants, sugar mills, pulp and paper mills, steel mills, oil and gas installations, food and beverage manufacturing operations and many other industries, including commercial and institutional facilities use steam turbines for electricity production or to drive mechanical equipment such as compressors, fans, mills and blowers.
When used for the production of electricity, the steam turbine is coupled to a generator set. Magro says that typically, industrial steam turbine models start from a 30 kW capacity and go up to 150 MW. “These turbines can operate at a very low steam pressure (5 bar or less), or at high pressure up to 140 bar, using saturated or superheated steam at temperatures up to 540°C,” he says.
“The operational availability of an industrial steam turbine should be about 98%, however a proper maintenance programme is essential not only for prolonging the life of the equipment, but also to ensure the correct operation of the turbine,” says Magro.
The best way to achieve this is to enter into a service contract with the OEM who will recommend an appropriate maintenance and service programme. A new steam turbo-generator set could be installed in the plant to operate in parallel with the pressure reducing valve, so when maintenance is required on either, the processes that require steam would not need to be stopped.
“Steam turbine cogeneration is not only suitable for large installations, but can play a vital role in medium and small applications, saving the end-user a significant amount in energy costs over the expected life span of the system which, depending on the design, can vary from 20 to 30 years,” Magro concludes.
South African businesses can alleviate energy price crisis
Electrical Power & Protection
While grid instability remains a concern, the immediate and most critical driver of South African commercial and industrial investment in renewable energy is the escalating cost of electricity.
Read more...Real-time modelling is the key to a resilient, bi-directional energy grid Schneider Electric South Africa
Electrical Power & Protection
Utilities and municipalities are facing a challenge as the country’s legacy power grid, engineered for one-way energy delivery from centralised suppliers to end-users, must rapidly evolve to meet a new paradigm.
Read more...Shielding data centre growth from the looming power crunch Schneider Electric South Africa
Electrical Power & Protection
Today’s digital economy is placing unprecedented strain on the power grid. The good news is that these challenges are not insurmountable. By adopting proactive strategies such as alternative power sources, infrastructure planning and software, operators can secure capacity, build resilient facilities and scale sustainably.
Read more...Circuit breaker innovations Schneider Electric South Africa
Electrical Power & Protection
Recent advancements in circuit breaker technology have seen a major step forward in setting new standards for efficiency and sustainability in data centres, industrial and commercial infrastructure.
Read more...Common battery tester errors and what they mean Comtest
Electrical Power & Protection
Battery testers help quickly assess battery health, diagnose issues, and determine whether a battery needs a charge or replacement. This guide covers some of the most common battery tester errors, what they mean, and what can cause them.
Read more...Cathodic protection design considerations that influence ESG outcomes Omniflex Remote Monitoring Specialists
Electrical Power & Protection
Major infrastructure like wharves, bridges, pipelines and tanks are at constant risk of corrosion. David Celine, managing director of cathodic protection specialist Omniflex, explains how CP system design can support ESG commitments, while simultaneously lowering costs and improving maintenance capabilities.
Read more...Recovering condensate and waste heat
Electrical Power & Protection
According to Associated Energy Services, strong partnerships with thermal energy users optimise opportunities to benefit from condensate return. waste heat recovery and the prevention of system contamination.
Read more...Quantum engine powered by particle entanglement
Electrical Power & Protection
In a landmark achievement that signals a new era in energy research, a team of physicists in China has carried out the first successful test of a quantum engine powered by particle entanglement. This technological breakthrough represents a fundamental shift in our approach to energy production.
Read more...Advancing sustainability in South Africa’s fruit industry Schneider Electric South Africa
Electrical Power & Protection
Schneider Electric, together with Technoserve Medium Voltage, has implemented its advanced SF6-free MV switchgear at Two-a-Day situated in Grabouw in the Overberg district.
While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained herein, the publisher and its agents cannot be held responsible for any errors contained, or any loss incurred as a result. Articles published do not necessarily reflect the views of the publishers. The editor reserves the right to alter or cut copy. Articles submitted are deemed to have been cleared for publication. Advertisements and company contact details are published as provided by the advertiser. Technews Publishing (Pty) Ltd cannot be held responsible for the accuracy or veracity of supplied material.
printer friendly version