Application of Markov Process technique for optimal maintenance in a power station

Abstract

Maintenance, reliability and availability of Pulverised Fuel Mills are of vital importance for the effective and efficient running of boiler at any brown coal power station. Achieving these targets become more critical when the unit boiler and turbine have been upgraded with no major upgrade on mills. Mill redundancy play major role in overall boiler operation and performance. In this paper, present mill operating strategy at Loy Yang Power station is challenged and revised strategy is proposed with strong evidences proved with the application of Markov Processes. Markov analysis is done at mill system level to establish the facts about the effects of mill operation on system availability. Short term and long term benefits of revised strategy are also discussed. Management is now convinced and actual trials have started. Mill maintenance strategies shall be reviewed and revised based on this work. It is also expected to gain considerable savings on mill maintenance costs in coming years if proposed operating strategy is adopted.