Analyzing the Impact of Pressure Ratio Variation on Gas Power Plant Performance at Takoradi Thermal Power Station
Enock A. Duodu *
Department of Mechanical and Automotive Technology, AAMUSTED, Ghana.
Evans Kwaku Seim Mbrah
Department of Mechanical Engineering, KAAF University College, Ghana.
John Nana Otchere
Department of Mechanical Engineering, KAAF University College, Ghana.
*Author to whom correspondence should be addressed.
Abstract
This study investigates the influence of pressure ratio variation on the performance of a gas turbine plant located at Aboadze, Ghana. The operational data including daily hourly measurements of pressure ratio, power output, ambient temperature, and gas fuel flow rate were collected during field visits conducted in February and March 2021. The thermal efficiency was computed using a validated equation, and data were analyzed using MAT LAB. The study reveals significant temporal fluctuations in the pressure ratio, power output, and thermal efficiency, highlighting the dynamic nature of the gas turbine plant's performance during daily operation. It was also observed that as the pressure ratio increases, the power output and thermal efficiency also increases and vice versa. The average highest and lowest pressure ratio recorded between February and March 2021 were 10.40 and 9.84 respectively, with corresponding average highest and lowest power output of 109 MW and 102 MW respectively. The result also showed an average daily variation in pressure ratio of 0.35 with corresponding power output difference of 5.25 MW. The finding showed that averagely, the lowest thermal efficiency and the highest thermal efficiency were 27.00 % and 28.00 % respectively.
This study is of crucial importance for optimizing power generation efficiency and ensuring sustainable energy production. By studying a specific gas turbine plant located in Aboadze, Ghana, this research contributes valuable insights into the operational characteristics of such plants in the region.
Keywords: Gas turbine, pressure ratio, thermal efficiency, power output