Research on the Design of Advanced Combined Cycle Power Plants

Abstract

Combined cycle power plants are an important bridge technology between today's fossil fuel power plants and tomorrow's clean power plant facilities. The paper analyze from the perspective of thermodynamics, technology and engineering practice introduces the main structure, design points, fundamentals of advanced combined cycle power plants (CCPPs), key technology innovations, and application cases through the analysis of how the two cycles, namely, Brayton cycle and Rankine cycle, work together and how advancements have brought better CCPPs, which include Brayton cycle optimization, multi-pressure steam system, and regenerative heat exchange techniques. The description is based on the case study of Hassyan hybrid power plant, Huaneng Shantou 700°C A-USC Project and NET Power zero-carbon demonstration project，Compared with traditional power plants, the differences in fuel types, cycle methods, and fuel utilization are summarized. The working principles and special cycle methods of these typical cases are explained respectively, and the future trend of combined cycle power plants is further summarized. It is demonstrated that current modern CCPPs' operational efficiencies might surpass 60%, indicating potential and adaptability for the change in low carbon emission.