Thermodynamic analysis of pre-drying methods for pre-dried lignite-fired power plant

► Lignite pre-drying methods were compared in terms of their contribution to the plant thermal efficiency. ► The theoretical model for thermodynamic analysis of pre-dried lignite-fired power plant was established. ► The steam pre-drying has higher potential in plant thermal efficiency improvement than flue gas pre-drying. ► Main factors influencing the plant thermal efficiency were calculated and analyzed.