While solar panels and wind farms are sustainable technologies, they still produce insufficient electricity to meet a nation’s entire needs. Even hydroelectric schemes frequently require additional support. Meanwhile, we continue relying on nuclear fission and fossil fuels for the vast amounts of electricity necessary to keep the country’s industries running. Despite significantly different designs, these generating stations operate on a shared principle – boiling water to produce steam to drive a turbine. Operators that require combined cycle power plant training can trust Simgenics’ training simulators to ensure their training is up-to-standard.
These installations employ two turbines; one gas-driven and the other powered by steam. The combination can generate up to 50 per cent more electricity from the same amount of fuel than plants operating on steam alone. As the gas turbine runs, it creates surplus heat. The excess is then routed to the steam turbine to increase power output and provide more bang for the service provider’s buck.
Special Training for Combined Cycle Power Plant Operating
Steam, high temperatures, electricity and combustible fuels are a recipe for potential disasters. The resulting risks to equipment and personnel mean thorough and detailed combined cycle power plant training is crucial. That said, attempting to instruct new operators in the workplace can also be a potential source of danger. One of the principal aims of the training is to minimise the chances that an operator might make a mistake that could have serious consequences.
Even if not a direct threat to life or limb, an operator error could cause a damaging power surge, supply disruption, and chaos for consumers. However, while on-the-job tuition has some obvious drawbacks, teaching practical tasks in a classroom would not be a viable alternative. By contrast, simulations are an excellent way to conduct combined cycle power plant training. With a computer and some specialised software, it is possible to reproduce all the essential elements of the live working environment as a realistic, interactive three-dimensional model. Within that model, a trainer can create specific work-related tasks for the learners to complete and even add helpful hints, quizzes and assessment criteria for progress monitoring and reporting.
The Value of Simulation-based Training
A simulation can be broad-based, covering most of the frequently-used control measures. However, where relevant, it can also be designed to focus on just one or two of the more crucial tasks. For example, combined cycle power plant training might emphasise monitoring and controlling the transient temperature and pressure fluctuations in the steam-driven turbine, the steam chemistry conditions and warm-up times. The heat recovery steam generator (HRSG) is a critical component in this method of electricity production. Only when operated at peak efficiency, can it generate sufficient steam from the gas turbine’s exhaust gases to drive the secondary steam turbine and maximise the plant’s output. Experience shows that simulations can improve operator proficiency faster and more effectively than conventional on-the-job instruction, saving costs, time and resources.
Brand-specific simulations for specified aspects of combined cycle power plant training are usually available from the relevant equipment manufacturer. Alternatively, there are some excellent software packages on the market with which a trainer can create a wide range of simulated scenarios in-house. They don’t have to be exceptionally detailed or elaborate to be effective. They can be assembled using built-in objects and functions in the software. Alternatively, working from laser scans can provide more life-like visuals. The combination of audiovisual content and the freedom to interact with the various control systems on the screen creates a compelling learning experience that significantly improves the learner’s retention.
SimGenics Offers Simulator Training Solutions
Candidates for combined cycle power plant training might sometimes find it more convenient to undergo their instruction at an authorised third-party facility. SimGenics is a leading supplier of generic and specific partial or full-scope simulations and sophisticated software for DIY use. In addition, we can also undertake to develop bespoke systems based on detailed 3D laser scans of a client’s workplace. However, we also offer the opportunity to attend a comprehensive and challenging mix of classroom instruction and practical simulator time at our well-appointed training centre in Colorado. Trainees may enrol for conventional or combined cycle power plant training. In each case, during the week-long course, they will receive tuition, all necessary study materials, and 40 hours of simulator instruction. Trained operators are crucial to the safety of a generating station and the people it serves. Conventional teaching methods are time-consuming and inherently inadequate for developing practical skills, especially in a risk-filled environment. We invite you to learn more about simulations and how they can transform your combined cycle power plant training.
