Application of variable frequency drive on the condensate pump motors of APR1400 nuclear power plants for energy savings

Abstract

Condensate pumps provide the motive force to deliver condensate from the hotwell to the deaerator storage tanks. Advanced Power Reactor 1400 (APR1400) is comprised of three 50% capacity motor driven condensate pumps with control performed by level control valves (LCVs). This configuration presents a challenge since the flow of condensate water is controlled by LCVs only. These LCVs are in throttled position in the pipeline where throttling of valves causes the loss of system efficiency by increasing the resistance to the flow. Generally, Variable Frequency Drives (VFDs) allow to operate motors and pumps at the precise speed needed for the process and energy saving. This paper investigates if there are any advantages when VFD is used to control the CPs and check the possibility of eliminating LCVs. Therefore, the NPP model was developed using Electrical Transient Analysis Program (ETAP) software and was benchmarked to APR1400. The analysis was performed with VFD installed and without VFD. The new approach for CP energy saving calculation using VFD was introduced and the results were confirmed by the ETAP model simulation results. The conclusion was drawn from the results whether the application of VFD for CPs has advantages for energy savings and economic benefits.

Starting Analysis of Squirrel Cage Induction Motors 1000 kW by Variable Frequency Drive in Power System Case study: Tabriz Pump station

“…The analysis was performed with VFD installed and without VFD. The new approach for Condensate Pump (CP) energy saving calculation using VFD was introduced, and the results were confirmed by the ETAP model simulation results [8]. To minimize voltage disturbances and maintain quality of the power supply to customers, the paper presents clear limits for maximum allowable motors' starting currents and corresponding maximum electrical power ratings.…”

Studying the Influence of Connecting New Energy Saving Loads on the Electrical Power System of Nuclear Facility

“…The secondary pumps specifications are shown in Table 7. In reference [2] the VFD specification data was proposed according to rating capacity and the input power of the secondary pumps as shown in Table 8. After the NRR model was performed, various analyses were carried out such as load flow analysis and harmonic analysis.…”

“…Variable speed drives, also one of the energy saving techniques; gradually rise the motor speed to operating speed to reduce electrical and mechanical stress, decreasing repair and maintenance costs, and extending the motor lifespan. variable frequency drive is used to control the device being connected by making the starting of motor smoothly also its advantage for energy saving and achieving high system efficiency, increase the heat of device component which considered the losses during process of frequency conversion which causes the harmonic distortion in the network [2][3][4].Also there is a major possible for electricity saving and reducing energy costs of consumer during the use of airconditioning with high efficiency and lighting technologies [5]. LED replacements can be used instead of conventional lighting which have less power consuming and produce better illumination.…”

Optimization of VFD Operations for Transporting Equipment of Packages

“…Variable frequency drives (VFDs) are widely applied in many common industrial machineries, such as fans, compressors, and pump systems [1]. Many scientific studies and experiments unconditionally confirm the benefits of VFD implementation in the Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) systems.…”