The US Department of Energy PFBC perspective, 1994 update

Significant progress in the development and commercialization of pressurized fluidized-bed combustion (PFBC) technology has occurred since the 1992 Fluidized-Bed Combustion (FBC) Conference. The US Department of Energy (DOE) has been and continues to be an active partner in most of these activities. This paper presents the 1994 status of DOE activities and a discussion of the importance DOE places on the development and commercialization of PFBC systems. Specifically, this paper discusses the status and focus of DOE activities. Currently, first-generation PFBC systems are on the brink of commercial deployment. The DOE Clean Coal Technology (CCT) Program is assisting in this process by funding demonstration programs to validate that PFBC technologies are a low-risk, environmentally-attractive, cost-competitive option for utility and industrial users. A brief discussion of the scope and the status of major demonstrations are presented. This paper also presents a snapshot of the PFBC development activities that are part of the DOE Research and Development (R&D) Program, i.e., hot gas particulate removal systems and pilot-plant facilities in support of advanced PFBC combined-cycle systems. The R&D pilot plant activities discussed include advanced component development tests at the Foster Wheeler Development Facility and the status of the fully integrated advanced PFBC beingmore » built as part of the Power Systems Development Facility (PSDF) at Wilsonville, Alabama. Finally, a brief perspective is provided as to how PFBC systems will need to further evolve in order to continue to remain viable. As we look into the next century, there will be continual pressure to make power systems cleaner and more efficient. By increasing cycle efficiencies to over 50 percent and further reducing emissions, it is possible for PFBC systems to meet these challenges. Suggested goals and development targets for advanced, super-clean PFBC systems are briefly discussed.« less