Exergetic destructions in steam generation system: Azzour plant

The aim of this research is to investigate the exergetic destructions of Azzour steam generation system. The exergy destructions (irreversibilities) of the steam generation system were analysed based on actual plant operating data. Three irreversible processes were investigated; combustion, heat transfer and streams mixing processes. Sensitivity analysis was carried out to study the effects of inlet air temperature, excess theoretical air, air humidity and generated steam temperature on steam generation system performance. Results showed that at stoichiometric condition, the exergy was destroyed mainly by two irreversibilities, associated with heat transfer and combustion processes, and to a much lesser extent by streams mixing process.

Keywords: exergy destructions, irreversibilities, combustion, heat transfer, mixing, steam generation system, sensitivity analysis, inlet air temperature, excess theoretical air, air humidity, steam temperature, cogeneration power plants, Kuwait, desalination