AIR COOLED CONDENSER USE IN CUBAN SUGAR INDUSTRY ELECTRICITY GENERATION

Abstract

Introduction:
The current biomass power plant (CE) project in Cuban sugar industry is limited by water access required by condensation facilities. At present, the use of dry condensers is the most widespread solution worldwide to reduce high rates of water consumption in condensing systems and to make the location of the CE more flexible, with aero condensers (ACC) being more widespread.
Objective:
To carry out a simplified study that demonstrates the implementation of dry condensation in EC Biomass project in Cuban sugar industry effectiveness.
Materials and methods:
Dry condensation worldwide use in electricity and sugar generation industries current state is shown, subsequently the elements related to biomass CE project, required for the analysis, are detailed.
Results and Discussion:
An analysis is carried out on the consumption, power generation and heat transfer area required by each variant. In addition a case study is carried out applying selection criteria, NPV, IRR, investment recovery period and leveled energy cost using Conradie, et al and Camaraza-Medina, et al methods.
Conclusions:
The study carried out shows that ACC use in Cuba is an advantageous alternative for planned CE projects, as it complies with Law 124/2017 requirements. It and demonstrates adequate technical-economic operation indicators.