Pinch analysis method as applied in the Al-Khairat power plan.

This paper offers a case study enabling the performance evaluation of the Al-khairat power plant in Karbala city based on the application of the Pinch Analysis (PA) method to determine the best possible heat recovery (Qrec.) available in the plant and how can this be used to minimise energy consumption and save energy. PA has been used to study integration in several processes to help develop optimum heat transfer and minimise total cost: such work has also allowed the development of a Heat Exchanger Network (HEN) design to support this process. Al-khairat power plant consists of 10 units, each of which generates 125 MW; thus, the overall production of the plant is 1,250 MW. Unit 3 was selected as a representative unit for this study, based on its performance stability throughout the year. The data from control room facilities was then used to theoretically calculate the relevant heat loads (ΔH), which were applied in a Composite Curve (CC) to evaluate the Qrec. However, the results suggested that PA may not be effectively applied in this power plant, with similar conclusions being obtained from the application of simulation software (Aspen Energy Analyzer, AEA). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]