Integrated Gasification Combined Cycle (IGCC) Optimization

This project conducted a preliminary process design of alternates to optimize an existing simulation of an integrated gasification combined cycle (IGCC) facility to produce electricity from coal in Wyoming. There are two major obstacles associated with Wyoming's geographical location: (1) Wyoming's high altitude increases energy consumption in the air separation unit (ASU) and (2) the process requires large water consumption, a scarce resource in Wyoming's arid climate. Therefore, this project focused on improving energy usage in the ASU and reducing overall water usage. Several ASU designs were considered, however, two proved most beneficial, reduction of operating pressure in the ASU and use of nitrogen for turbine cooling. These reduced energy consumption and improved overall economics. Overall water consumption can be reduced by replacing cooling water with air-fin coolers; however, this increased fixed capital investment and did not improve overall economics.