Introduction
Coal combustion is one of the most widely used energy sources to generate electricity. The mechanical strength of the coal combustion system, including the combustion chamber, the boiler and other accessories, is very important in the design and safety operation of the system. Thus, this paper mainly focuses on the mechanical strength of coal combustion machines.
Available Analysis
There are many methods used to analyze the mechanical strength of coal combustion machines. Modern engineers often use Finite Element Analysis (FEA), stress analysis and classical mechanics. These methods help calculate and predict the mechanical properties and behavior of coal combustion machines under both static and dynamic loads.
When utilizing FEA for analysis of mechanical strength, a computer model is created by a program to solve the material under test by simulating the property’s physical behavior. Stress analysis utilizes equations to describe the mechanical behavior of a material subjected to stress, strain and other physical influences, including temperature and pressure. Classical mechanics uses equations to determine the angular momentum and velocity of motion in machines. This can be done through the conservation of energy and vector calculus.
FEA, stress analysis, and classical mechanics have been used by engineers to simulate the mechanical strength of coal combustion machines with success.
Materials
The materials used in the construction of coal combustion machines typically include steel, stainless steel and ceramic parts. Steel is the most common material used and has high tensile strength and fatigue strength. Stainless steel is also used and has a better resistance to corrosion, but is more expensive than steel. Ceramic materials are often used as insulation or baffles within the combustion unit to improve efficiency.
Testing
The most common way for engineers to analyze the mechanical strength of coal combustion machines is through testing. The test typically consists of a static load test and a dynamic load test. The static load test consists of the application of a constant force over the entire test specimen and the dynamic load test consists of the application of a variable force over the test specimen. The results of the tests can be used to calculate the elasticity, creep, tensile and fatigue properties of the material.
Conclusion
The mechanical strength of coal combustion machines is an important factor in the design and safety operation of these systems. Finite Element Analysis, stress analysis and classical mechanics can be used to analyze the mechanical strength of coal combustion machines. Steel, stainless steel and ceramic components are typically used in the construction of coal combustion machines. And, the mechanical strength of these machines is tested by static and dynamic load tests.
