External optimization controller in optimal control of thermal power units

As a source of electricity production, the level of automation in thermal power units is increasing higher and higher due to the construction of smart power grids. The units in grids should be working in automatic generation control and primary frequency. The optimal control has changed to a hot spot in the industry. A new method for optimal control which is used by an external optimization controller is proposed in this paper. The method is different from the traditional method, and it is not limited to the capability of distributed control system which is used in the field. By using the high-performance external optimization controller, the complex control logic and advanced control algorithms (model predictive control) can be achieved in optimal control. Using this method in the control of circulating fluidized bed boiler in field, we show that the boiler can be controlled efficiently. So this method can improve the control level of the units, and this method is not designed for one unit, it can be used widely in thermal power units.