New control systems will use advanced instrumentation

This paper reports that state-of-the-art control systems will help to improve a plant's flexibility while enhancing its life. Wide integration of power plant control systems is the aim of control engineers. However, standard network interfaces must be developed before this can be achieved. In addition, if future control systems are to be truly state-of-the-art, advanced instrumentation and sensors and predictive controls must be utilized. Using advanced control systems makes it possible to improve the operation flexibility and enhance the life of power plants, says the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI). To meet these goals, EPRI is implementing a series of programs in conjunction with electric utilities and equipment vendors. One of these programs involves developing predictive controls and another is studying plantwide automation. Fossil power plant engineers who are changing their units from baseload to cycling operation must rethink their operating philosophies. The faster loads are changed, the less fuel is used. Unfortunately, cycling of units and/or fast load changes can subject key power plant components to thermal stress. However, power plant optimization programs can eliminate such risks.