Performance evaluation of atmospheric biomass integrated gasifier combined cycle systems under different strategies for the use of low calorific gases

This work aims at a performance evaluation of atmospheric BIGCC (biomass integrated gasifier combined cycle) systems operating under different strategies for the use of low calorific fuel in gas turbines. The fuel is a synthetic gas derived from gasification of sugar cane residues. Two analysed strategies for surge control on gas turbines originally designed for operation on natural gas are de-rating and air extraction from the compressor. Another strategy for use of biomass derived gas is the retrofit of a gas turbine through modification of the expander geometry. Three generic gas turbines, whose main parameters have been taken from off the shelf machines, are proposed as representative of certain classes of gas turbines. Results are compared to the hypothetical situation in which it is possible to accept any increase in gas turbine pressure ratio. According to the results, de-rating is the worst surge control strategy, both from the point of view of power production and thermal efficiency. Conversely, results showed considerable gains that can be obtained on cycle power production when the gas turbine expander is modified. Additionally, an overview of issues concerning the suitability of sugar cane residues (bagasse and trash) for the production of gasified gas and its use in BIGCC plants is presented.