Conceptual design of the Scholz MHD retrofit plant

The technical feasibility of an MHD (magnetohydrodynamic) system operating in a commercial electric utility environment was evaluated by means of a site-specific conceptual design study. The study involved the retrofit of an MHD system to an existing coal-fired power plant, the Scholz generating station (Florida, USA), which was selected following evaluations of more than 200 sites. Following site selection, the design team performed technical analysis, evaluation, design, and calculations in sufficient detail to assess the operational characteristics, environmental effects, and economics of a coal-fired, MHD system utilizing Illinois No.6 coal as the feedstock. Produced during the study were process, system, and equipment descriptions; a plant layout; and cost and schedule data for design, fabrication, installation, and initial operation. The study found that an MHD retrofit can demonstrate the technology basis for future commercialization of MHD