The electric power industry is a crucial application area for high-voltage frequency converter technology. Studies on the adaptability of frequency conversion in the main auxiliary equipment of power plants have revealed that there are seven types of equipment per unit that can benefit from frequency conversion. On average, each unit requires approximately 13 frequency converters to be installed. According to available data, the total capacity of auxiliary motors—such as fans, induced draft fans, feed pumps, circulating pumps, and slurry pumps—used in China’s thermal power plants reaches 15,000 MW. These motors consume around 52 billion kWh annually, accounting for 5% to 8% of the total power generated by thermal power plants nationwide.
Currently, most fans and pumps in China's thermal power plants operate at fixed speeds. This constant-speed operation typically involves using inlet dampers for fans and outlet valves for pumps to control flow, which leads to significant throttling losses. Especially during variable load operations, the efficiency of these systems drops because the fan and pump operations move away from their optimal efficiency points. The traditional method of flow regulation does not adjust the motor speed, meaning the power consumed by the motor remains unchanged. As a result, the pressure within the pipeline network often becomes too high, which can negatively impact the safe and stable operation of the system.
By implementing frequency converters to regulate motor speed and achieve the desired flow rate, a substantial amount of energy can be saved. Effective speed control of auxiliary motors directly influences the overall efficiency of the power plant. In addition, modern frequency conversion technology not only improves operational efficiency but also enhances system flexibility and reduces mechanical wear, making it a valuable upgrade for existing thermal power facilities. As the demand for energy efficiency continues to grow, the adoption of frequency conversion solutions in the power industry is becoming increasingly essential.
Jiangsu Zhongyi Tools and Riggings Co., Ltd. , https://www.zy-rigging.com