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PhD Thesis - Energy Systems Research Unit - University of Strathclyde

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and continuous operation. Again, multiple turbine sets may be used, and these<br />

are subject to a minimum recommended load. The output from this procedure is<br />

a graph <strong>of</strong> percentage turbine loading, and fuel use is calculated and dealt with<br />

as before. An example <strong>of</strong> the definition window for a gas turbine is given in<br />

Appendix 1, Figure A1.34.<br />

5.5 Steam Turbine Model<br />

Part load performance characteristics for steam turbine plant are quoted either as<br />

part load efficiency values [16] or as average block heat rate values [17]. If a<br />

heat rate value is given in kJ/kWh, this may be converted into a percentage<br />

efficiency value using Equation 5.38.<br />

Electrical Efficiency (%) = 3610.3 x 100 (5.38)<br />

Heat Rate<br />

Figure 5.17 shows a graph <strong>of</strong> average heat rate values versus load for a steam<br />

turbine power plant. From this it can be seen that the heat rate <strong>of</strong> the plant<br />

remains fairly constant down to around 50% loading, after which it increases<br />

significantly. This increase in heat rate denotes a significant decrease in<br />

efficiency. This is typical behaviour for a steam turbine, although actual part<br />

load efficiency or heat rate figures will vary with the type and size <strong>of</strong> plant.<br />

Figure 5.17 Average Heat Rate Versus Output for a Steam Turbine [17]<br />

149

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