BME PRESENTATION

STEAM GENERATION

Made by:
Deep vasoya- 12402020501013
Patel Shreyaskumar-
12402020501056
Krish Prajapati- 12402020501048
Aryan Patel- 12402020501005
Rachit Madhani - 12402020501049
Steam Generation: A
Primer on Mechanical
Engineering
Fundamentals
This presentation explores the fundamental principles behind
steam generation, covering topics such as the process,
components, fuel types, and safety considerations.
What is Steam Generation?
Boiling Water Energy Transfer

Steam generation is fundamentally the process of This phase transformation from liquid water to steam
heating water to its boiling point, causing a phase necessitates a significant input of heat energy. This
transition from liquid water to water vapor (steam). The energy transfer from a fuel source (such as natural gas,
boiling point itself is not a fixed value but depends on coal, or biomass) to the water is crucial. The heat
several factors, primarily pressure. Higher pressure transfer mechanisms involved are primarily conduction
increases the boiling point, while lower pressure (direct transfer through contact), convection (transfer
decreases it. The presence of impurities in the water through fluid movement), and radiation (transfer
can also slightly alter the boiling point. Furthermore, through electromagnetic waves). The efficiency of
the boiling process itself can occur in different ways, steam generation heavily depends on how effectively
including nucleate boiling (where bubbles form on this heat energy is transferred to the water. Factors
surfaces), and film boiling (where a vapor film insulates impacting efficiency include the design of the heat
the surface, leading to less efficient heat transfer). exchanger, the condition of the heat transfer surfaces,
and the temperature difference between the fuel
source and the water.
The Principles of Steam
Generation
Heat Transfer Phase Change
Steam generation relies on As water absorbs heat, its
heat transfer principles, temperature rises until it
where heat flows from a reaches the boiling point,
hotter source to a cooler at which it transforms into
one. steam.

Pressure and Temperature

Steam generation occurs at specific pressure and
temperature conditions, which influence its properties.
Key Components of a
Steam Generation System
Boiler Furnace
The heart of the system, The combustion chamber
where water is heated to where fuel is burned to
generate steam. provide heat.

Chimney Steam Piping

The vertical structure that Pipes that transport the
releases combustion gases generated steam to various
and excess heat. applications.
The Boiler: The Heart of Steam
Generation

Heat Transfer
The boiler is responsible for efficiently transferring heat from the combustion process to
the water.

Water Circulation
Water is circulated through the boiler to ensure uniform heating and steam generation.

Steam Separation
The boiler separates steam from water, ensuring a consistent supply of high-quality steam.
Fuel Types and Combustion
in Steam Generators
1 Fossil Fuels
Coal, oil, and natural gas are traditional fuels with high
energy content but environmental concerns.

2 Renewable Sources
Biomass, solar, and wind energy are gaining traction as
sustainable alternatives.

3 Combustion Process
Fuel is burned in a controlled environment, releasing
heat energy for steam generation.
Water Treatment and
Preparation for Steam
Generation
Impurities
Raw water often contains impurities that can damage the
boiler or affect steam quality.

Treatment Processes
Water is treated to remove dissolved solids, suspended
particles, and harmful chemicals.

Preparation
Treated water is fed into the boiler system to ensure efficient
and safe steam generation.
Efficient Steam Generation: Maximizing Thermal
Efficiency
Boiler Design
1 Optimizing heat transfer surface area and combustion efficiency.

Fuel Selection
2
Choosing fuels with high energy content and low emissions.

Insulation
3
Minimizing heat loss from the boiler and steam piping systems.

Maintenance
4
Regular inspections and repairs to ensure optimal performance.
Maintenance and Safety Considerations
Regular Inspections
1
Monitoring boiler pressure, water levels, and fuel combustion.

Safety Equipment
2
Pressure relief valves, safety interlocks, and emergency shutdown systems.

Training
3 Ensuring operators are properly trained to operate
and maintain the system.
Emerging Technologies in Steam
Generation

1
Waste Heat Recovery
Utilizing heat from industrial processes to generate steam.

2
Cogeneration
Simultaneously producing electricity and steam for improved efficiency.

3
Artificial Intelligence
Optimizing boiler operations for better performance and efficiency.
Steam Generation:
Powering the Future
Steam generation is the backbone of modern energy
infrastructure, powering everything from industrial processes to
electricity production. In this presentation, we'll explore the key
aspects of steam generation technology, from boiler design to
optimization and environmental impact.
Types of Steam Generators
Drum Type Boilers Once-Through Boilers

Conventional boilers with a steam drum that separates Continuous flow design without a steam drum,
steam and water. These boilers are characterized by resulting in higher efficiency. In these boilers, the water
their relatively simple design and robust construction, flows directly through the boiler tubes, evaporating as
making them suitable for a wide range of applications. it absorbs heat. This eliminates the need for a steam
They offer good steam quality and are often preferred drum and leads to improved efficiency due to reduced
for their ease of maintenance and operation. However, heat loss and faster response times. However, they are
they may be less efficient compared to once-through more complex in design and require precise water
boilers and require larger physical footprints. chemistry control to prevent scaling and corrosion.
These boilers are often favored for high-pressure, high-
capacity applications where efficiency is a primary
concern.
Boiler Design and Components

Furnace Water Tubes Steam Drum

Generates heat through combustion Transfer heat from furnace to Separates steam from water for
of fuel. generate steam. circulation.
Steam Generation
Processes
1 Feed Water Treatment
Purifying water to prevent scale and corrosion.

2 Evaporation
Converting water to steam through heat transfer.

3 Superheating
Increasing steam temperature for improved efficiency.
Efficiency and Optimization
Heat Recovery Advanced Controls

Using economizers and air preheaters to recapture Implementing smart sensors and algorithms to fine-
waste heat. tune operation.
Environmental Impact and Regulations
Emissions Reduction Water Conservation Regulatory Compliance
Implementing strategies to Optimizing water usage and Adhering to evolving
lower NOx, SOx, and particulate implementing recycling environmental standards and
matter. systems. guidelines.
Maintenance and
Troubleshooting
Preventive Maintenance Troubleshooting
Techniques
Regular inspections,
cleaning, and component Diagnostic tools and
replacements to ensure methodologies to quickly
reliable operation. identify and resolve issues.

Predictive Analytics
Using sensor data and machine learning to predict potential
problems.
Advancements in Steam Generation
Supercritical Boilers 1
Operating at higher pressures and temperatures for
improved efficiency.
2 Fluidized Bed Combustion
Burning fuel in a bed of suspended particles for
cleaner emissions.
Waste Heat Recovery 3
Capturing and repurposing excess heat from
industrial processes.
Boiler Accessories

Superheater Economizer Air Preheater

Increases steam temperature for Preheats boiler feedwater using Recovers heat from flue gas to
improved turbine efficiency. exhaust gas heat. preheat combustion air.
Key Performance Metrics

85% 1.5
Boiler Efficiency Equivalent Evaporation

1200°F 150 psi

Maximum Steam Temperature Maximum Steam Pressure

Steam generation efficiency, equivalent evaporation, and operating parameters are critical metrics for optimizing
steam plant performance and meeting operational requirements.
THANK YOU