Life extension: the benefits are real

In the early 1980s, the term life extension was used to describe plant assessment and performance improvement programs. However, the term lost favor because it took on a negative connotation associated with its potential impact on environmental issues. Utilities have adopted a variety of terms since then to describe these programs and projects. Whatever the name, the common goal is to determine the technical and economic feasibility of continued fossil plant operation while maintaining or improving availability, efficiency, operation and maintenance (O M), and safety. This article describes how that many aging power plants can be likely candidates for cost effective life extension as part of utility asset management programs.