Thermodynamic optimization of reheat regenerative thermal-power plants

A first- and second-law procedure for the optimization of the reheat pressu re level in reheat regeneration thermal-power plants is presented. The proc edure is general in form and is applied for a thermal-power plant having tw o reheat pressure levels and two open-type feedwater heaters. The second-la w efficiency of the steam generator, turbine cycle and plant are evaluated and optimized. The irreversibilities in the different components of the ste am generator and turbine cycle sections are evaluated and discussed. Additi onal constraints such as the steam qualities at the exits of the different turbine stages are considered. (C) 1999 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights re served.