Optimization of steam cycles with respect to supercritical parameters

This paper contains an analysis of supercritical power stations have been presently built worldwide. The analysis concerns cycles with single and double interstage superheating and, additionally, with regenerative feed water preheating system equipped with six, seven, eight, nine and ten regenerative heat exchangers, respectively. Relevant calculations were performed for various values of fresh steam temperature and pressure, various pressure values of secondary superheating, as well as with value of condenser internal pressure maintained constant. The calculations show that to increase efficiency of steam cycle with double interstage superheating and extended regeneration even to a value greater than 51%, is possible. In the age of greater and greater demand for electric power and stronger and stronger limitations imposed on emission of noxious compounds to the atmosphere, the developing of power production technologies based on supercritical parameters seems inevitable.