Gas and Steam Combined Cycle Installation
Gas and steam combined cycle power plants are an efficient method of converting thermal energy into useful electric energy. This type of power plant process employs a unique combination of both natural gas and steam power systems, resulting in a much more efficient generation of electric energy than traditional single-source power plants. By combining the two sources of power together, the power plant is able to generate more electric power at a lower cost and with fewer emissions.
The process begins by using a natural gas turbine to generate electric power though the combustion of a combustible gas. This gas turbine is then coupled to an alternator to turn the gas turbine’s output into electric energy. This electricity is then transmitted across a network to be used where it is needed. The exhaust from the turbine is then used to generate steam. The steam is used to turn a cyclical turbine, also known as a steam turbine, which generates additional electric power.
The use of a steam turbine in combination with a natural gas turbine results in higher overall efficiency of the power plant. The result of using both systems is less fuel requirements than a single power source and fewer emissions because of the increased efficiency. By combining gas and steam turbines into one plant system, the output of electricity is much more powerful than it is with just one system. This allows more electricity to be generated without having to increase the amount of fuel available or that is used to power the plant.
Power plants using a gas and steam combined cycle are becoming more popular each day as energy requirements continue to increase. In addition to the economic and environmental benefits of this power source, the power plants themselves are typically much quieter than traditional single-source power plants. This quieter noise makes for better living conditions for those living in power plant neighborhoods.
When most people think of power plants, they picture a large, noisy, smoky structure with a large number of workers bustling around. However, power plants that feature a gas and steam combined cycle lack the industrial noise and pollution of traditional power plants. Therefore, those living in residential neighborhoods near a gas and steam combined cycle power plant are sure to appreciate the increased peace and quiet that this type of power plant can provide.
In addition to the environmental and economical benefits of a gas and steam combined cycle installation, it is also a relatively cost-effective solution when compared to other methods of electric power generation. Therefore, it is no surprise that these types of power plants are rapidly becoming more popular throughout the world. In the coming years, it is likely that more and more power plants will be converting to a gas and steam combined cycle in order to provide clean, efficient and affordable electricity to the world.
