New Problems in Auxiliary System Design - supercritical-Pressure and Nuclear Plants

The two newest developments in power generation, supercritical-pressure cycles and nuclear reactors, are imposing additional requirements on powerhouse auxiliary systems. The conventional system of the past must be modified to accommodate larger total loads, larger single loads, and more stringent service continuity requirements. New auxiliary system layouts must be made with full recognition of heatcycle peculiarities and new operating procedures. Boiler-feed-pump power-supply and bus-transfer requirements are the areas of interest receiving special discussion in supercritical-pressure plant design. For a nuclear plant, main coolant-pump power supply and continuity of service to other vital loads deserve special attention. This paper discusses the plant heat cycles from the auxiliary system viewpoint, outlines the auxiliary system requirements, and gives typical solutions used by plants in the design and construction stages.