Energy storage power station to supply steam

Can thermal energy storage be integrated into coal-fired steam power plants?

In the FLEXI- TES joint project, the flexibilization of coal-fired steam power plants by integrating thermal energy storage (TES) into the power plant process is being investigated. In the concept phase at the beginning of the research project, various storage integration concepts were developed and evaluated.

What is a steam-electric power station?

A steam–electric power station is a power station in which the electric generator is steam -driven: water is heated, evaporates, and spins a steam turbine which drives an electric generator. After it passes through the turbine, the steam is condensed in a condenser.

What type of storage system is used in a power plant?

The storage system is based on a Ruths-type steam accumulator with or without integrated PCM. Since the working medium of the power plant process is stored or retrieved, it is a direct storage system. The pressure vessel was designed both for the classic case without integrated PCM and for the innovative approach of integrating PCM capsules.

Should thermal energy storage be integrated into power plants?

For conventional power plants, the integration of thermal energy storage (TES) into the power plant process opens up a promising option for meeting future technical requirements in terms of flexibility while at the same time improving economic efficiency.

What is the efficiency of a steam power plant?

The efficiency of a conventional steam–electric power plant, defined as energy produced by the plant divided by the heating value of the fuel consumed by it, is typically 33 to 48%, limited as all heat engines are by the laws of thermodynamics (See: Carnot cycle). The rest of the energy must leave the plant in the form of heat.

How does a steam storage system work?

An additional steam mass flow therefore flows into the downstream turbine stages of the HPT, MPT and LPT, generating additional electrical power. The storage system is based on two molten salt tanks, hot tank and cold tank, each with one pump.