A NOVEL SENSOR FOR IMPROVING FLAME STABILITY OF GAS FIRED GAS TURBINE BY CONTINUOUSLY MONITORING FUEL GAS QUALITY

Gas networks are interconnected and strategically linked to multiple sources. Because of this, the quality of gas can change rapidly at a given location when switching from one source to another. When this occurs, these rapid changes can result in flashback or flame extinction. To overcome combustion issues and instabilities of gas fired gas turbines due to the variability of gas incoming gas quality, a new sensor called NIRIS NG has been designed which analyzes the natural gas composition at the inlet of the turbine burners. The design of the NIRIS NG sensor boasts a short response time (less than one second), easy installation, simple maintenance, and low cost. This is primarily because unlike other gas quality sensors, the NIRIS NG sensor is based on spectrometry technology and the sensor has been specifically engineered for installation on turbine applications. By employing spectrometry, the NIRIS NG sensor is performing a technological breakthrough by using low cost optical components and proprietary signal treatment software within robust packaging that can sustain the vibration and heat over extended periods. The gas-pipe-plugged sensor provides fast response times and transmits the data to the turbine controller using CAN protocol. This paper will describe in detail the sensor hardware and software technologies, validation testing that has been completed to date, and the expected advantages on industrial gas fired gas turbines.