Multi-variable optimization of pressurized oxy-coal combustion

Simultaneous multi-variable gradient-based optimization with multi-start is performed on a 300 MWe wet-recycling pressurized oxy-coal combustion process with carbon capture and sequestration. The model accounts for realistic component behavior such as heat losses, steam leaks, pressure drops, cycle irreversibilities, and other technological and economical considerations. The optimization study involves 16 variables, three of which are integer valued, and 10 constraints with the objective of maximizing thermal efficiency. The solution procedure follows active inequality constraints which are identified by thermodynamic-based analysis to facilitate convergence. Results of the multi-variable optimization are compared to a pressure sensitivity analysis similar to those performed in literature; the basecase of both assessments performed here is a favorable solution found in literature. Significant cycle performance improvements are obtained compared to this literature design at a much lower operating pressure and with moderate changes in the other operating variables. The effect of the variables on the cycle performance and on the constraints are analyzed and explained to obtain increased understanding of the actual behavior of the system. This study reflects the importance of simultaneous multi-variable optimization in revealing the system characteristics and uncovering the favorable solutions with higher efficiency than the atmospheric operation or those obtained by single variable sensitivity analysis.

Department dc:contributor.department

Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Dept. of Mechanical Engineering.

Grantor dc:publisher

Massachusetts Institute of Technology

Year dc:date.issued

2011

Author dc:creator

• Zebian, Hussam

Advisor dc:contributor.advisor

• Alexander Mitsos.

• Mechanical Engineering.

Statement dc:rights

• M.I.T. theses are protected by copyright. They may be viewed from this source for any purpose, but reproduction or distribution in any format is prohibited without written permission. See provided URL for inquiries about permission.

Licence dc:rights.uri

• http://dspace.mit.edu/handle/1721.1/7582

Language dc:language.iso

eng

Handle dc:identifier.uri

http://hdl.handle.net/1721.1/67808

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:dspace.mit.edu:1721.1/67808