Plant monitoring workstation with online determination of incremental heat rate

An online method of determining a unit´s economic characteristics, developed under EPRI´s Power Plant Performance Instrumentation System Project (RP 1681/2153), is discussed. The method, called the Incremental Heat Rate Monitor, will soon be available as part of EPRI´s Plant Monitoring Workstation (PMW). The PMW and the role of the monitor within it are described. Essentially, the monitor constructs the input/output and incremental heat rate curves periodically, at 15-min intervals for example, so the information that is used for economic dispatch need never be out of date. Further, the monitor accurately reflects the true condition of the unit including the influence of valve loops and the switching of large auxiliaries.<>