MODELING AND SIMULATION OF THERMOELECTRIC PLANT OF COMBINED CYCLES AND ITS ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT

Abstract

The impact any power plant has upon the environment must be minimized as much as
possible. Due to its high efficiency, low emission levels and low cooling requirements,
combined cycle plants are considered to be environmentally friendly. This study evaluates
the effect of operational conditions on pollutants (CO, CO2, SOx, NOx) emissions levels,
waste-heat and wastewater of a combined-cycle natural gas and steam power plant. The
HYSYS process simulation was used for modelling and simulation. The study clearly
shows that the absolute quantity of pollutants emitted is high. Also, it was possible to
verify that the unit operate in the condition of minimal emissions regarding the maximum
possible, and thus a reduction or elimination of such pollutants is not possible.