Fuzzy wide-range control of fossil power plants for life extension and robust performance

A methodology for the synthesis of life extending control systems for wide range of operations of fossil-fuel steam power plants is presented. This aims to achieve damage mitigation in critical plant components and to enhance dynamic performance and robustness of the power plant control system. Since the fuzzy controller makes the decision of changing the load reference signal based on damage predictions, it can react to unexpected changes in real time, which cannot be predicted a priori. A distinct feature of this approach is that the knowledge of plant dynamics and mechanics of the structural materials are synergistically applied to formulate a controller design methodology which can be readily used by practicing engineers.