Combined power cycle using low Btu gas produced from the Kellogg molten salt coal gasification process. [3 refs]

In the recent past, more and more attention has been given to the production of low Btu fuel gas for utilization in a nearby power plant. Even though conventional coal-fired steam cycle power plants are capable of achieving a net heat rate as low as 8600 Btu/kW-hr, most plants operate in the 9100-10000 Btu/kW-hr. Compliance with environmental requirements on stack emissions, however, generally result in heat rates in excess of 10,000 Btu/kW-hr. Thus, there is considerable incentive to go to an alternate source of clean fuel. By incorporating minor changes in the existing combustion chambers, the gas turbine can be operated efficiently on low Btu fuel gas. Integration of the M. W. Kellogg Molten Salt Coal Gasification Process with the gas turbine-steam turbine combined power cycle system provides for an efficient method of generating electrical power from high sulfur coal while minimizing environmental pollution. The Kellogg Molten Salt Process converts the heating value of high-sulfur coal to fuel gas with a lower heating value of 100 to 150 Btu/SCF at a conversion efficiency of around 90 percent, with over 90 percent of sulfur retained by the melt. The fuel gas thus produced is cooled and scrubbed clean of contaminants inmore » equipment integrated with the power generation and melt clean up and recycle systems. This fuel gas when used in conjunction with combined power cycle, using existing equipment, is estimated to generate power at a heat rate of around 9500 to 8500 Btu/net kW-hr depending on the ash content of the coal.« less