Application and Research of Steam Compressors in Heat Supply of Coal-Fired Power Plants

The application of steam compressors in heating supply of coal-fired power units demonstrates significant energy-saving benefits, while also effectively addressing the operational constraints of steam supply at low loads, thereby achieving thermoelectric decoupling.. This study analyzes and compares the performance characteristics and operational ranges of three distinct mechanical steam compression technologies. Although centrifugal compressors exhibit a low single-stage pressure ratio, their operational flow rate and temperature ranges are better suited for coal-fired heating requirements. Three typical application scenarios of steam compressors in industrial steam supply for coal-fired power units are proposed: Steam compressors enable waste heat recovery by compressing turbine exhaust steam for heating purposes, increase pressure in branch networks of steam supply pipelines to achieve high-pressure steam delivery, and enhance industrial steam extraction pressure under low-load conditions to realize thermoelectric decoupling. This enables substantial improvement in both the energy efficiency and steam supply capacity of coal-fired power units. Based on practical application cases of steam compressor systems, the objectives of steam pressure and temperature elevation can be achieved. Through collaborative adjustment of the drive motor frequency and the recirculation valve, dual-objective control of outlet flow rate and temperature can be realized. An analytical model was developed to simulate compressor performance, and validation against actual operational data confirmed the model’s applicability for guiding operational practices and control simulations. The centrifugal steam compressor in actual operation demonstrates normal performance across all operational indicators under high-speed conditions, confirming its technical reliability in coal-fired heating applications and providing crucial references for the widespread adoption of steam compressor technology in steam supply systems of coal power units. It expands the steam supply parameter range of electro-thermal conversion systems, thereby making a positive contribution to renewable energy integration.