Examining How Different Factors Affect Heat Rate and the Economic Damage Caused by Heat Rate Deviation in Thermal Power Plants

Abstract

Enhancing the heat rate has a direct impact on the efficiency and financial sustainability of thermal power plants, making it an essential component of their operations. The goal of this project is to pinpoint the crucial variables that affect the heat rate and offer ways to increase it. Condensers and boiler feed pumps are examined to identify the key elements influencing the heart rate. After careful investigation, this study determines that the crucial parameter that significantly affects the heat rate is the outlet temperature of heater 8 in unit 8. It has been found that a mere 10 degree Celsius variation in this parameter can cause a 2% decrease in heat rate, resulting in significant financial losses for the thermal power plant in the range of crores of rupees.