Novel Modelling and Control Strategies for a Steam Boiler under Fast Load Dynamics

TL;DR

This paper introduces a comprehensive nonlinear dynamic model for a natural circulation boiler, capturing fast responses under variable loads, with new features for risers, water level, and downcomer flow, validated in a sugar mill boiler.

Contribution

The paper presents a novel nonlinear dynamic model with new features for risers, water level, and downcomer flow, enhancing understanding of boiler dynamics under variable loads.

Findings

Model captures fast dynamic responses accurately.

New features improve control system design.

Validated in a sugar mill boiler.

Abstract

This paper describes a new nonlinear dynamic model for a natural circulation boiler. The model is based on physical principles, i.e. mass, energy and momentum balances. A systematic approach is followed leading to new insights into the physics of drum water level and downcomer mass flow. The model captures fast dynamic responses that are necessary to describe the operation of a boiler under highly variable load conditions. New features of the model include (i) a multi-compartment model for the risers, (ii) a new model for drum water level, and (iii) a new dynamic model for the flow of water in the downcomers. Implications of the model for control system design are explored in detail. Finally, the suggested improvements are validated in a sugar mill boiler.