Steam Plant Operation

The definitive guide for steam power plant systems and operation—fully updated

For more than 75 years, this book has been a trusted source of information on steam power plants, including the design, operation, and maintenance of major systems. Steam Plant Operation, Ninth Edition, emphasizes the importance of a comprehensive energy plan utilizing all economical sources of energy, including fossil fuels, nuclear power, and renewable energy sources.

Wind, solar, and biomass power are introduced in the book, and the benefits and challenges of these renewable resources for the production of reliable, cost-effective electric power are identified. Even with these new technologies, approximately 90% of electricity is generated using steam as the power source, emphasizing its importance now and in the future. In-depth details on coal-fired plants, gas turbine cogeneration, nuclear power, and renewable energy sources are included, as are the environmental control systems that they require. Potential techniques for the reduction of carbon dioxide emissions from fossil fuel–fired power plants also are presented.

This practical guide provides common power plant calculations such as plant heat rate, boiler efficiency, pump performance, combustion processes, and collection efficiency for plant emissions. Numerous illustrations and clear presentation of the material will assist those preparing for an operator’s license exam. In addition, engineering students will find a detailed introduction to steam power plant technology.

Steam Plant Operation, Ninth Edition, covers:

• Steam and its importance
• Boilers
• Design and construction of boilers
• Combustion of fuels
• Boiler settings, combustion systems, and auxiliary equipment
• Boiler accessories
• Operation and maintenance of boilers
• Pumps
• Steam turbines, condensers, and cooling towers
• Operating and maintaining steam turbines, condensers, cooling towers, and auxiliaries
• Auxiliary steam plant equipment
• Environmental control systems
• Waste-to-energy plants

Everett B. Woodruff was a Project Engineer at A. M. Kinney, Inc., a leading architectural, engineering, and design process firm. He was involved in the design of industrial and utility power plants and provided consultation in steam plant operation and maintenance; in plant performance test requirements; and in the development of overall power plant specifications.

Herbert B. Lammers was a consultant for various industries which were dependent upon steam power plants for their reliable source of power. He provided expertise in the efficient combustion of various fuels and in the economic operation and maintenance of boilers and various power plant systems.

Thomas F. Lammers was a Senior Project Manager with Babcock & Wilcox Co., one of the world’s leading designers and suppliers of steam generating systems and related power plant equipment. During his 36 years with the company, Mr. Lammers had various management responsibilities in the areas of engineering, marketing, and project management.