Simulation based performance evaluation of biomass fired cogeneration plant with ORC

This paper presents the concept of software tool for planning of operation of a cogeneration plant and its diagnostics. Functionality of the tool is discussed on example of a newly built biomass fired system, that consists of VAS thermal oil boiler and the Turboden T6−CHP ORC unit of 606 kW electric power output. An initial model of the plant has been built using Ebsilon Professional simulation software. The results of simulations show that state parameters of the system can be modelled with relatively good accuracy. The operation of the plant is simulated assuming different thermal loads, ambient conditions and biomass quality. Sensitivity to operating conditions is examined. General performance indices are presented as well as some possibilities for improvements are identified.