Condition monitoring of combined heat and power systems

Combined heat and power (CHP) is recognised as one of the most efficient ways of providing energy in the form of electricity and heat. Substantial energy cost savings are achievable with CHP systems coupled with significant environmental advantages. This paper describes the development of an intelligent microcomputer control and monitoring system designed to provide co-ordinated management of small-scale CHP schemes. To ensure the continued operation of these systems they muse be serviced regularly and contractual agreements will require a rapid response to system failure, often in the light of financial penalties. To aid the task of maintaining reliable operation, an intelligent control and monitoring system has been developed which provides continuous monitoring and communication to a remote control centre