POWER
November 2023 Previews
COVER FOCUS: Nuclear Top Plants
Grand Gulf, Port Gibson, Mississippi
Grand Gulf is a single-unit boiling water reactor rated for 1,500 MWe gross output. After design challenges with new turbine control valve actuators led to unplanned plant shutdowns, Entergy partnered with the World Association of Nuclear Operators (WANO) to develop a focused plan to address the causes of shortfalls in equipment reliability, and improve organizational performance at the plant.
Olkiluoto 3, Eurajoki, Finland
Olkiluoto 3 is an EPR (European Pressurized Water Reactor) unit with a net electrical output of about 1,600 MW. The design includes modern proven technology and advanced new safety features. With the commissioning of Olkiluoto 3—the most powerful nuclear power unit in the world—approximately 30% of Finland’s electricity now comes from one island, where the entire lifecycle of nuclear power is managed.
Shin Hanul 1, Uljin, South Korea
Shin Hanul Unit 1 is an APR-1400 nuclear reactor. The APR-1400 is an evolutionary pressurized water reactor, based on the Combustion Engineering System 80+ model. The reactor is principally designed by Korea Engineering Company, with a 1,400-MW capacity and 60-year design life. Unit 1 is the first of what could be as many as four units at the Shin Hanul site in South Korea.
FEATURES
Lubricants in Power Generation
Lubricants play a critical role in maintaining the efficiency and reliability of power generation equipment. Several different types of lubricants are commonly used in the industry, including mineral oils, synthetic oils, and greases. The advantages and disadvantages of each type, and when they are best suited for specific applications, will be examined.
How a Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) System Works and Why It’s Important
Selective catalytic reduction (SCR) is a technology commonly used in coal-fired, natural gas-fired, and oil-fired power plants to reduce nitrogen oxide (NOx) emissions, which are harmful pollutants contributing to air pollution and acid rain. This article will explain how SCR systems work.
Asset Management in Power Generation
Power plant owners need sound asset management strategies to ensure their energy supply is safe, eco-friendly, and cost-effective. Assets that are properly maintained will last longer and save costs in the long run. Asset management becomes increasingly important as the energy grid and power plant infrastructure ages. Non-destructive test (NDT) inspection as an asset management tool is vital in maintaining equipment and material integrity.
Wet Steam and Its Effects on Power Plant Valves
Valves in power plants are exposed to incredibly hazardous operating conditions each day, which are further magnified by pressurized and erosive wet steam. This article looks at the importance of proper valve specifications and maintenance in helping plant management teams mitigate chronic problems.
Spotlight on National Grid
National Grid is an energy company operating in the UK and the U.S. Among other things, it owns the high-voltage electricity transmission network in England and Wales; operates the UK’s largest electricity distribution network, serving nearly 8 million customers; owns and operates electricity distribution networks in upstate New York and Massachusetts; owns and operates electricity transmission facilities across the Northeast, including upstate New York, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Vermont; and it also owns and operates gas distribution networks across the Northeastern U.S.