Preliminary studies on advanced power generation based on combined cycle using a single high-pressure fluidized bed boiler and consuming sugar-cane bagasse

A process based on a single high-pressure bubbling fluidized boiler consuming sugar-cane bagasse has been proposed for studies having in mind power generation. The highly pressurized boiler provides steam above critical temperature to drive steam-turbine cycle while the fuel-gas is injected into gas turbines. Preliminary studies using a comprehensive simulator for boilers and gasifiers [CSFMB(C) or CeSFaMB(C) (www.csfmb.com)] allowed a first optimization of the boiler. In addition, IPES (Industrial Process and Equipment Simulator) has been applied to predict the main features of the steam and gas turbine branches. The first phase of study has already shown advantages when compared to other processes based on the currently level of technology applied at sugar plants. In addition, is very likely that it would present gains over the BIG/GT (Biomass Integrated Gasification/Gas Turbine) mainly because it would allow feeding the fibrous bagasse as slurry, thus avoiding cumbersome and expensive cascade feeding systems. In addition, the use of supercritical boilers provides great flexibility for power generation as well steam for the processes required by sugar and alcohol units. (C) 2011 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.