Optimization of the flue gas-flow controlling devices of the electrostatic precipitator of unit A4 in TPP "Nikola Tesla"

Abstract

Homogeneity of the flue gas-flow through the chamber of an electrostatic precipitator is one of the basic influencing parameter on dedusting efficiency. This paper presents results of a multiobjective optimization study of the flue gas controlling devices of electrostatic precipitator of 324 MWe lignite fired Unit A4 of TPP "Nikola Tesla" in Serbia. The aim was to achieve better flow homogeneity in the cross-section of the precipitator compared to the original design. Additional constraints were to maintain the minimum as possible overall weight of the proposed design as well as pressure drop through the precipitator. Numerical simulations based on CFD were used to investigate dependence of the velocity distribution in the ducts and precipitator?s chamber with respect to the geometrical parameters of tested concepts of turning blades. A series of 22 detailed full-scale numerical models of the precipitator with different concepts of turning vanes designs were developed. Assessment of the flow field uniformity for each tested design was performed based on the analysis of several homogeneity parameters calculated for selected vertical cross-sections of the precipitator. After the reconstruction according to optimized design, results of measurements confirmed significant improvements of the velocity distribution in the vertical cross-sections of the precipitator, increase of dedusting efficiency and reduction of PM emission.