Gas turbine power plants are a type of power plant that uses a gas turbine to generate electricity. It uses a gas turbine to convert the heat energy of pressurized air into mechanical energy. As a result, the mechanical energy turns the blades of an alternator which generates electricity. In this article, we will discuss some of the advantages and disadvantages associated with gas turbine power plants.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Gas Turbine Power Plant
Advantages of Gas Turbine Power Plant
A gas turbine power plant has a number of advantages, which are listed below.
1. In comparison to a thermal power plant of the same generating capacity, the capital and operating costs of a gas turbine power plant are significantly lower.
2. Gas turbine power plants are simpler to design and lay out than thermal power plants since boilers and their auxiliary equipment are not necessary.
3. It’s easy to start up a gas turbine power plant in cold conditions.
4. There is no need for boilers, feed water arrangements, etc., in a gas turbine power station. Consequently, it occupies a much smaller space than a thermal power plant with a similar generating capacity.
5. Standby losses are not present in gas turbine power plants.
6. Because gas turbine power plants do not require a condenser, they require less water than thermal power plants.
7. It is also important to note that the maintenance costs are quite low.
8. Gas turbines are much simpler to construct and operate than steam turbines.
Disadvantages of Gas Turbine Power Plant
Here are some of the disadvantages of gas turbines that you should be aware of.
1. It is important to note that the net output of a gas turbine power plant is very low. This is due to the fact that the turbine uses a greater percentage of its energy to drive the compressor.
2. The gas turbine power plant has a problem with starting because before it can start, the compressor must be operated, for which power must be obtained from an external source. The plant will not require external power once it has been started, as the turbine will supply the compressor with the necessary power.
3. Generally, gas turbine power plants have a low overall efficiency, about 20%, due to the large amount of heat that is contained in the exhaust gases getting wasted.
4. An extremely high temperature is present in the combustion chamber (about 1700°C). As a result, its life is comparatively shorter as a consequence.
Summary
Gas turbine power plants have the advantages of lower capital and operating costs, simpler design, easy to start-up, smaller space requirement, no standby losses, lesser water requirement, and lower maintenance costs. On the other hand, gas turbine power plants have the disadvantages of lower net output power, low overall efficiency, and shorter life.
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