Mathematical Modelling of Power Station Plant the Role of Simulation

The role of simulation in an exercise aimed at identification and verification of mathematical models of the principle control loops of pulverised fuel mills feeding the furnace of a large coal-fired power station is described. Models of this type are an essential precursor to decision of control strategy, controller design and optimization and to development and monitoring of alarm systems for operator assistance. Design of the experimental program and choice of excitation sequence is described., together with detection of the plant structure and estimation of the model coefficients. Development of a simulation, incorporating a range of associated control systems, is discussed and uses to which the simulation may be put are reviewed.