Simplified, On-Line Performance Monitoring of Simple Cycle Gas Turbines Using Spreadsheet-Based Calculations

A spreadsheet-based performance monitoring software program has been developed which uses OEM correction curves and thermodynamic analysis to compare actual simple cycle gas turbine performance to expected performance over the full-range of operation including part-load. The program has been designed to require a minimum of user set-up and can interface with widely-used, third-party data historians to access plant operating data in real-time. In addition to providing overall plant performance indicators, the program also provides component-level indicators such as combustion turbine compressor section efficiency. An overview of the algorithms used to calculate actual and expected performance is provided. The advantages and shortcomings of this approach are compared to those used by others. Results are presented from initial testing of the software on a 500 MW combined cycle power featuring two GE 7FA combustion turbines. Performance results include data on the compressor section efficiency of a 7FA over a wide range of operating conditions.