Compilation of Solved Sample Problems in Power Plant Engineering

Power Plant Engineering

Solution to the Sample Problems
Topic 1: Energy and Power

1. A train weighing 1450 Metric tons is pulled up a 2% grade by 4475KW. Train resistance is
8710kg. What is the speed in kph?

SOLUTION:
Wh

1450MT
F

Tan θ= grade = 2% = 2/100

1 MT = 1000kg

[ΣFn=0]
F-Wh-R=0
F=Wh+R
F=W(sin θ) +R
F=W( )+R
√
F= 1450 MT (1000 kg/1 MT) ( )+8710kg
√
F= 37,704.20 kg
F=369,878.22 N
F=369.88 KN

Power= Force (Velocity)

4475 KN-m/s = (369.87822 KN) V
V=( )( )( )
V=43.55 Km/hr

2. A pump is lifting water through 5.5m to fill a 570 m3 tank. The over-all energy efficiency is 80%.
Calculate the length of time that 7.5 kw applied to the pump will require to complete the job.

SOLUTION:

5.5m
Pin=25Kw V=570 m
3

PUM
ηp=80%

Water Power = Q γh
(7.5 kw)(0.80) = Q (9.81 Kn/m3) (5.5m)
Q = 0.11 m3/s

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The time required to fill the tank:

T=
T= 5125.73 seconds
T=85.43 min

3. A body is being dragged uniformly along a horizontal surface by a force of 45 kg acting at an

angle of 20o to the horizontal. Find the work done in moving the body in km.

SOLUTION:
F=45Kg

20O

d=1KM

W= F (d)
W= Fh (d)
W= (45 kg) (cos 20o) (9.81 m/s2) (1000m) (1kN/1000N)
W= 414.83 KN-m

4. Forty percent of the electrical input to a motor-driven pump is converted into a hydraulic jet,
12mm diameter, for the purpose of washing down ashes. Find the jet velocity in m/sec. The motor
has a 3-phase, 220V, 7.5-amp rating. Power factor, 85%.

SOLUTION:

Motor input Motor Pump Hydraulic Power

Electrical Input = √
=√ ( )( )( )
= 2429.4 Watts

Power Converted into hydraulic Jet:

Hydraulic Power = (0.40) (2429.4 watts)

= 971.76 watts

Hydraulic power =

Where: m = ρ Av

(ρ )
Hydraulic Power =
( )( )
971.76 watts =
V = 25.8 m/s

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 Compilation of Solved Sample Problems in Power Plant Engineering

5. A turbogenerator rotating mass has a moment of inertia of 555 hyls/m2. It is delivering 2500kw at
1800rpm. The load then suddenly increases to 2550 kw, the developed steam power remaining
unchanged. What is the resulting speed in rpm after 10 sec?

SOLUTION:
Power = 2550 kW- 2500 kW = 50 kW

( )
Power =
( )( )
( ) ( )( )( )( )( * + )
( )( )
= 188.98 rad/s
= 1804.6 rpm

6. In a change over from steam to electric heating, a unit which had been condensing 4.5 kg dry and
saturated steam at 2.1 kg/cm2 each 15 min is to be electrically heated from a 220-v circuit. How
many 12-ohm resistors in parallel would be needed to supply the same heat?

SOLUTION:

ρ=2.1 kg/cm2

P=( )( )( )
2
P = 206,010 N/m =0. 206 MPa
hfg @ 0.206 MPa = 2,199.42 kJ/kg

Let: Qs = Heat given off by the steam condensing

= m (hfg)
=( )( )
= 11.0 kJ/s

Consider the resistors arrangement:

E R R R

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Heat Supplied by resistors

Qt = I2R
= (V/R)2 (RT)
= (V2/RT) = (V2/Rn)
= (nV2/R)
Energy from steam = Energy in resistors
( )
11,000 J/s =
( )( )
n= ( )
n= 2.77 say 3 resistors.

7. A power plant serves a factory having two 22kw motors and ten 3.7 kw motors. Assume the
efficiency of motors 80%, of transmission line 95%, of generator 92%. (a)what should the rated
capacity of the generator be if it is assumed that all motors might be delivering their rated power
simultaneously? (b) what should the rated capacity of the engine be?

SOLUTION:

Transmission

Engine Generator 2 (22kw)

10 (3.7 kw)

The total motor output = 2( 22kw) + 10 (3.7 kw)

= 81 kw

Total input to motors = (81kw/0.80)

= 101.25 kw

a. Generator Output = (101.25 kw/ 0.95)

= 106.58 kw

b. Generator input = (106.58 kw/ 0.92)

= 115.85 kw

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 Compilation of Solved Sample Problems in Power Plant Engineering

Power Plant Engineering

Solution to the Sample Problems
Topic 2: Variable Load

1. A central station is supplying energy to a community through two substations. One substation
feeds four distributing circuits; the other, six. The maximum daily recorded demands are:

Power Station: 12,000 kw

Substation A: 6,000 kw Substation B: 9,000 kw

Feeder 1: 1,700 kw Feeder 1: 620 kw
Feeder 2: 1,800 kw Feeder 2: 1,500 kw
Feeder 3: 2,800 kw Feeder 3: 1,000 kw
Feeder 4: 600 kw Feeder 4: 2,900 kw
Feeder 5: 2,200 kw
Feeder 6: 3,000 kw

Calculate the diversity factor between (a) substations, (b) feeders on substation A, (c) feeders on
substation B.

SOLUTION:

a. Diversity factors between substations:

b. Diversity factors between feeders on substation A

c. Diversity factors between feeders on substation B

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2. An electrical feeder line serves four distribution transformers which have the following connected
loads:
No. 1 No. 2 No. 3 No. 4
Residence 10 kw Residence 20 kw Commercial 15 kw Power 32 kw
Residence 20 kw Residence 25 kw Commercial 5 kw Residence 24 kw
Residence 25 kw Residence 28 kw Power 4 kw Residence 35 kw
Commercial 35 kw Commercial 15 kw Residence 18 kw
Commercial 25 kw
Using the tabulated factors, find peak load on the feeder.

SOLUTION:

Maximum demand on transformer 1:

= 10 kw (0.50) +20 kw (0.50) +25 kw (0.50) ; 0.50 – demand factor for residential lightings
= 27.5 kw

Maximum demand on transformer 2 (Residence):

= 20 kw (0.50) +25 kw (0.50) +28 kw (0.50) ; 0.50 – demand factor for residential lightings
= 36.5 kw

Maximum demand on transformer 2 (commercial):

= 35 kw (0.60); 0.60 – demand factor for small industries
= 21 kw

Maximum demand on transformer 3 (commercial):

= 15 kw (0.70) +5 kw (0.70) + 15 kw (0.70) + 25 kw (0.70); 0.70 – demand factor for stores and offices
= 42 kw

Maximum demand on transformer 3 (power):

= (4/0.72) kw (0.75); 0.75 – demand factor general power services of less than 7.5 kw ; 0.72 – motor efficiency
= 4.17 kw

Maximum demand on transformer 4 (power):

= (32/0.72) kw (0.55); 0.55 – demand factor general power services of 15-75 kw; 0.72 – motor efficiency
= 24.44 kw

Maximum demand on transformer 4 (residential):

= 24 kw (0.50) +35 kw (0.50) +18 kw (0.50); 0.50 – demand factor for residential lightings
= 38.51 kw

Peak load in transformer 1:

= (27.5 kw/3.5) ; 3.5- diversity factors of residence lighting between consumers
= 7.85 kw

Peak load in transformer 2:

= (36.5 kw/3.5) + (21 kw/1.5);
3.5- diversity factors of residence lighting between consumers; 1.5- diversity factors of commercial
lighting between consumers
= 24.43 kw

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Peak load in transformer 3:

= (42 kw/1.5) + (4.17 kw/1.5);
1.5- diversity factors of commercial lighting between consumers; 1.5- diversity factors of general
power services between consumers
= 30.78 kw

Peak load in transformer 4:

= (24.44 kw/1.5) + (38.5 kw/3.5);
1.5- diversity factors of general power services between consumers; 3.5- diversity factors of
residential lighting between consumers
= 27.29 kw
The total transformer load = 7.71 kw +24.43 kw +30.78 kw +27.29 kw
= 90.35 kw

Maximum feeder load = (90.35 kw/1.3); 1.3 – diversity factors between transformers
= 69.5 kw

Maximum substation load = (69.5 kw/1.2); 1.2 – diversity factors between feeders
= 57.92 kw

Plant capacity = (57.92 kw/1.1); 1.1 – diversity factors between substations

= 52.65 kw

3. A central station has annual factors as follows: Load: 58.5%, capacity 40.9%, use 45.2%. The
reserve carried over and above the peak load is 8900 kw. Find (a) installed capacity, (b) annual
energy production, (c) hr per year not in service.

SOLUTION:

RESERVE LOAD

INSTALLED
CAPACITY
PEAK LOAD

Load factor =
Average load = (peak load) (load factor)

Plant capacity factor =

( )
=
( )
( )( )
Plant capacity factor =
Installed capacity = (peak load) (load factor/plant capacity factor) eq. 1
Installed capacity = peak load + reserve load eq. 2

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Equate (eq 1) and (eq. 2) to solve the peak load:

(peak load) (load factor/plant capacity factor) = peak load + reserve load
(peak load) (0.585/0.409) = peak load + 8,900 kw
Peak load = 20,682.89 kw

a. Installed capacity = peak load + reserve load

= 20,682.89 kw + 8,900 kw
= 29, 582.39 kw

b. Annual energy production = ( )

= (20,682.89 kw) (0.585) (8760 hrs)
= 105,988,957.2 kw-hr
c. # of hrs not in service:

Plant use factor = ( )

0.452 = ( )

So, the # of hrs not in service:

= 8760- 7926.7 hrs
= 833.3 hrs.

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 Compilation of Solved Sample Problems in Power Plant Engineering

Power Plant Engineering

Solution to the Sample Problems
Topic 3: Power Plant Building

1. Determine the amount of sand in m3 required for a 5m3 of 1:2:4 concrete mixture, given the
following:
Material Relative Density Density, kg/m3
Cement 3.50 1300
Sand 2.75 1700
Gravel 2.25 1500

As per recommendation, use 25 liters of water per bag of cement. Assume one bag of cement contains
0.03m3.
SOLUTION:
Formula to be used:
Total number of batches :
ρ x Vc (ratio) 5m 3
V x  S.G.( ρ )
; 
water m3
0.153234
where x  cement,c; sand, s; gravel, g. batch
thus,  32.63
 33 batches
13000.031 m3
Vc  3.501000  0.0111428batch Total number of sand :
 33(0.03)(2)
17000.032  m3  1.98m 3
Vs  2.751000  0.037091batch
say 2m 3


15000.034  0.080 m3 Total number of cement :
Vg 2.251000 batch  33(0.03)(1)
 1 m3  m 3  0.99m 3
 
V w  25L 1000L  0.025 batch  1m 3
 
Total number of gravel :
_______________________________
 33(0.03)(4)
m3
T otal 0.153234  3.96m 3
batch
 4m 3
1 : 2 : 4 checked

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2. Determine the shape & weight of a radial brick chimney column will be made for a 36 x 1.50 m
chimney.
1.5m

R2

r2
750mm
H=36m

r1

R1

SOLUTION:
Estimating the value from table 4-3, p.100 textbook; Also from table 4-3: Interpolate,
top wall thickness____________180 to 230 mm H(m)
Batter (mm)
use____________190 mm d 2 (m)
20 20
R 2  r2  t topwall Batter 24
R 2  750mm  190mm 23 30
 24 - 30 
R 2  940mm Batter     20  30   23
R 2  0.940m  20 - 30 
mm
H 36m Batter  21.2
  24 mm
d 2 1.5m R1  R 2 mm
 Batter  21.2
H mm
R 1  R 2  21.2H

R 1  R 2  21.2
mm
36m 
mm
R 1  R 2  763.2mm
R 1  940mm  763.2mm
R 1  763.2mm  940mm
R 1  1703.2mm
R 1  1.70m
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 Compilation of Solved Sample Problems in Power Plant Engineering

From table 4-3, minimum wall thickness of the base, mm_________9.25H

t bottom  9.25(36m)
t bottom  333m

From p.91 textbook use 322mm (1 ½ brick)

r1  R 1  t bottom
r1  1.70m  0.322m
r1  1.38m
Outside Conical Volume:


Vo 
3
R 2
1  R 22  R 1R 2 H


Vo 
3
1.70 2

 0.940 2  1.70  0.940 36

Vo  203.95m3

Inside Conical Volume:


Vi 
3
r 1
2
 r22  r1r2 H


Vi 
3
1.38 2

 0.750 2  1.38  0.750 36

Vi  133.08m3

Volume of Masonry:

Vmasonry  Vo  Vi
Vmasonry  203.95m3  133.08m3
Vmasonry  70.87m3

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From table 4-2, p.90 of textbook, assume brick masonry common (  =1922 kg/m3) chimney weight:
m  Vmasonry
 kg 
m  1922 3   70.87m3 
 m 
m  136,212.14kg
m  136,212kg

3. A 39.5 m high chimney of radial brick masonry is described by the following top and bottom
dimensions: D2 = 1.90 m, d2 = 1.50 m, D1 = 3.2 m, d1 = 2.3 m. Uniform batter, weight 180 metric
tons. Find the maximum compressive stress under 160 km/hr wind load. Will a base crack be
opened to windward?

1.9m

1.50m

H=39.5m

2.3m

3.2m
SOLUTION:
(a.) Amount due to wind load:

100H 2
Pwh = (2R2 + R1) = Wz
3

=
100(39.5 m) 2 [2(0.95 m + 1.6 m]
3
Pwh = 182,029.70 kg - m
Pwh 182,029.70 kg - m
z= = = 1.01 m
W (180 tons)(1000 kg / ton)

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kern radius:

R 2 + r 2 (1.6 m) 2 + (1.15 m) 2
k= = = 0.61 m
4R 4(1.6 m)
Maximum value of z:
R r 1.6m 1.15 m
y= (2 + ) = ( )(2 + ) = 1.09 m
4 R 4 1.6 m

Compressive stress:
W (180 tons)(1000 kg/ton)
fc = = = 46,299.62 kg/m2
 (R1 - r1 )
2 2
 (1.62 - 1.152 )
= 46,299.62 kg/m2
= 454.2 kN/m2 or 454.2 kPa

Maximum compressive stress:

 z   z  z - k  
2

fz = fc 1 +  - 1 -   
 k   k  y - k  

 1.01 m   1.01 m   1.01 m - 0.61 m  2 

= (454.2 kPa) 1 +  - 1 -   
 0.61 m   0.61 m   1.09 m - 0.61 m  
= 1413.10 kPa

(b.) Since z is greater than k, a crack will open but a chimney will still be safe since
z < y or y > z > k

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4. In the need for a standby electric power unit due to frequent power outages, a 500 kW diesel
generator set weighing 5000 kgs, was selected for the service. The diesel engine drive is rated 670
hp at 1800 rpm, 6-cylinder, and a base length of 3.8 meters and width of 1.5 meter. Determine the
volume and size of the foundation required and its base dimension, if the bearing capacity is 5000
kg/m2.

Machine c c
Gen. Wm
Wm

Bedplate

Machine Foundation
Machine Foundation
Wf h
Wf

L
b

SOLUTION:
The given base length of 3.80 m is only that of the engine. Since the base length of the whole unit
is not known, a rectangular foundation will be used.
Wf = weight of foundation; where e=0.11, Wm=5000kg, N=1800rpm

= e  Wm  N

= 0.11 5000  1800

= 23,334.5kg
Wf
Vf 

23,334.5kg

2406kg / m3
= 9.7m3

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Solving for the required base area:

For machine foundation, the given bearing capacity of the soil is divided by 2, thus.
Sb W  Wf
 m
2 Base Area
5,000 5,000  23,334.5

2 Base Area
Base Area = 11.33 m2
Allowing 12in (0.30m) clearance from the edge:
b = 1.5+2(0.30); b=a
= 2.1m
Area for a rectangular foundation:
A=Lxb
L=A/b
L = 11.33 / 2.1
L = 5.4m
Solving for the depth of foundation:
Vf  bhL
9.7m3
h
5.4m  2.1m
= 0.86m
Summary:
Vf = 9.7m3 Base Area = 11.33 m2
Wf = 23,334.5kg h = 0.86

5. Determine the appropriate base length & base width in mm of a concrete foundation for a 750 –
kW slow speed diesel electric Generating set applying the following design data & parameters:
a.) Overall weight of genset----------------------28,600kgs
b.) Overall dimensions of bed plate-------------7m x 2m
c.) Generator efficiency----------------------------85%
d.) Maximum depth of excavation---------------4.5m
e.) Specific weight of foundation required------480 kg/bhp
f.) Safe load bearing capacity of site-------------30 tons/m2
g.) Density of concrete--------------------------------2.4 tons/m3

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h.) Top edges of foundation should not exceed 0.75m from the bed plate of the machines. But the
foundation should taper out below the floor line with no limit outward.

Machine c c
Gen. Wm
Wm

Bedplate

Machine Foundation
Machine Foundation
Wf h = 4.5m
Wf

L
b

Bed plate dimensions:

wB = 2m

LB = 7m

SOLUTION:
Length of foundation:
Lf = LB + 2c
= 7 + 2(0.75)
= 8.5m
Upper width of foundation:
a = WB + 2c
= 2+ 2(0.75)
= 3.5m

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The given efficiency of 85% must be that of the generator:

PGen

BHP
1.341hp
750kw 
BHP  1kw
0.85
= 1183hp
Weight of foundation:
Wf = 480(1183)kg
= 567,840kg
For machine foundation, the soil bearing capacity to be used is ½ of the allowable value:
S b Wm  Wf

2 Base Area
tons 905kg
30 
m 2 1tons  28,600kg  567,840kg
2 b  8.5m
b = 5.17 m
Therefore:
Lf = base length of foundation
Lf = 8.5m
b = base width of foundation
b = 5.17 m

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Power Plant Engineering

Solution to the Sample Problems
Topic 4: Fuels and Combustion

1. A cylindrical oil tank 2.4m diameter x 6m long is filled to the neck with fuel oil which is checked
at 21° Bé at 31 °C. Estimate the kJ heating value stored in this tank.

SOLUTION:

2.4 m

6 m

140 ; 140
Baume   130 21   130
SG15.6° SG15.6°

SG15.6°C = 0.927
SGt= SG15.6°C – 0.0007 ( t – 15.6°C )

@t = 31°C
SG31° = 0.927 – 0.0007 (31-15.6)
SG31°C = 0.916

HHV = 51716 – 8793.8(SG)2

HHV = 51716– 8793.8(0.916)2
HHV = 44333.96 kJ/kg

Mass of oil
mf = vf ρf

0.916 = ρf / 1000
ρf = 916 kg/m3

vf = volume of fuel = d2h = (2.4)2(6) = 27.14 m3

So, mf = (27.14)(916) = 24, 860.24 kg

Finally,
Qh=mfHHV = (24, 860.24)(44333.96)
Qh = 1.102 x 109 kJ

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2. A diesel engine consumes 1 bbl of industrial fuel of 25 °API of 80.6 °F in a single-day operation.
Determine the amount of heat liberated by the fuel as a result of combustion.

SOLUTION:

Bbl =159 liter = 0.159 m3

t = 80.6 °F = 27 °C
141.5 141.5
°API =  131.5 ; 25 =  131.5
SG15.6° SG15.6°
SG15.6°C= 0.904

@t = 27°C
SG27°C = SG15.6- 0.0007(T-15.6)
SG27°C =0.904-0.0007(27-15.6)
SG27°C = 0.89602

HHV = 41130 + 139.6 °API = 44620 kJ/kg

ρf = (1kg/li) (0.89602) = 0.89602 kg/li
mf = Vf ρf
mf = (159 liter) (0.89602 kg/li)
mf =142.47 kg

Qh= mf x HHV
Qh=(142.47 kg/24 hr) x (44620 kJ/kg)
Qh=264,875.475 kJ/hr

3. A horizontal cylindrical fuel oil storage tank 2.4 m dia. x 5 m long is gauged at 825.5 mm oil
depth. A delivery of oil is made which raises the level to 2165 mm, measured after the
temperature of the contents had attained ground temperature, i.e., 7.2oC. This oil is purchased for
$ 3.31 per bbl at 15.6oC/15.6oC. The delivery is billed at $ 380.50. Is this correct to the nearest
dollar?

SOLUTION:

Before

2400mm

825.5mm

5000mm

θ 0.3745
cos =
2 1.2

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θ = 143.63o
1 2
A sec tor
=
2r
θ

1 π
A sec tor = (1.2) 2 (143.630 )( )
2 1800
A sec tor = 1.805 m2

1 1 θ θ
At = bh = (r sin )(2)(r cos )
2 2 2 2
1 2
= r sin θ
2
1
= (1.2) 2 (sin 143.630 )
2
A t = 0.427m2

A =A
1 sector
- At
= 1.805 - 0.427
A 1
= 1.378 m2
After: oil raise to 2165mm,

2400mm
2165 mm

A w
= Asec tor - A t

θ 0.965
sin ce : cos =
2 1.2
θ = 72.940
1 2 1 2
A w
=
2
r θ - r sin θ
2
1 π
= (1.2) 2 [ (72.94 0 x ) - sin 72.940 ]
2 1800
A w
= 0.2283 m 2

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A 2
= Acircle - A w
= π(1.2) 2 - 0.2283m2
= 4.3 m2
V= volume of oil deliver
= (A2-A1) L
= (4.3-1.378) (6)
= 17.532 m3= 17,532 Li
= 110.26 bbL

$380.50
Pr ice =
110.26 bbl
Pr ice = $3.45 bbl

No, because it exceed $3.31 per barrel

4. A coal sample has an ultimate analysis 0f 80.0% C, 4.0% O2, 4.5 % H2, 1.7 % N , 1.5 % S, and
8.3% ash. Determine the heating value and mass air/fuel ratio for complete combustion with
100% theoretical air.

SOLUTION:

HHV = 33820C + 144212( ) + 9304S = 33820(0.80) + 144212( ) + 9304(0.015)

HHV = 32964.04 kJ/kg

Theoretical Air/Fuel ratio

A O 0.04
 11.5C  34.5( H  )  4.3S  11.5(0.80)  34.5(0.045  )  4.3(0.015)
F 8 8
A kg  air
 10.64
F kg  fuel

5. A fuel with a mass analysis of 83% C, 12% H2 , and 5% O2 is burned with 100% theoretical air.
Determine:
The complete combustion equation.
The molal analysis of the products with and without water vapour considered.

SOLUTION:

Xi Mi Xi/Mi Yi

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C 0.83 12 0.0691 0.53

H2 0.12 2 0.06 0.46
O2 0.05 32 0.00156 0.01
0.13066
Xi
Yi  Mi
 Xi
Mi

0.53C + 0.46H2 + 0.01O2 + aO2 + 3.76aN2 = bCO2 + cH2O + 3.76aN2

Carbon balance
0.53 = b

Hydrogen Balance
0.46 = c

Oxygen balance
0.01(2) + 2a = 2b + c
0.01(2) + 2a = 2(0.53) + 0.46
a = 0.75

Complete combustion equation

0.53C + 0.46H2 +0.001O2 + 0.75O2 + 3.76(0.75)N2 = 0.53CO2 + 0.46H2O + 0.75(3.76)N2

b.) Molal analysis

with vapor
np = 0.53 + 0.46 + 0.75(3.76) = 3.81
YCO2 = 0.53 / 3.81 = 0.14
YH2O = 0.46 /3.81 = 0.12
YN2 = (0.75)(3.76) / 3.81 = 0.74

Without vapour
np = 0.53 + (0.75)(3.76) = 3.35
YCO2 = 0.53 / 3.35 = 0.16
YN2 = (0.75)(3.76)/3.35 = 0.84

6. A fuel oil is burned with 50% excess air, and the combustion characteristics of the fuel oil are
similar to C12 H26. Determine the complete combustion equation, volumetric analysis of the
products of combustion, and determine the dew point for the products if the pressure is 101 kPa.

SOLUTION:

CnHm + (1+e)(n + 0.25m)O2 + (1 + e)(n + 0.25m)(3.76)N2 = nCO2 + 0.5mH2O + (1 + e)(3.76)(n

+ 0.25m)N2 + e (n + 0.25m)O2

Complete combustion equation

C12H26 + (1.5)(12 + 6.5)O2 + (1.5)(12 + 6.5)(3.76)N2 = 12CO2 +13H2O + 1.5(3.76)(12 + 6.5)N2 +
0.5(12 + 6.5)O2

C12H26 + 27.75O2 + 104.34N2 = 12CO2 + 13H2O + 104.34N2 + 9.25O2

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The total mole of the product

np = 12 + 13 + 104.34 + 9.25 = 138.59 mole
YCO2 = 12/138.59 = 0.087
YH2O = 13/138.59 = 0.094
YN2 = 104.34/138.59 = 0.753
YO2 = 9.25 / 138.59 = 0.067

Partial water vapour pressure

PH2O/P = YH2O ; PH2O/101 = 0.094

PH2O = 9.49 kPa
Tdp = dew point = tsat @ 9.49kPa = 45°C

Power Plant Engineering

Solution to the Sample Problems
Topic 5: Internal Combustion Engine Power Plant

1. What is the ideal thermal efficiency possible from the diesel having rk = 15, A:F = 40:1, QL =
42,800 ? Take Cp = 1.05 , t1 = 15.6 .

SOLUTION:

Compression ratio, rk = 15 = cut – off ratio, rc =

1 to 2 process:
( ) T2 = ( )( )

Heat input cycle = heat from fuel

Mass of flue gas, mg ; ( )

where:

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mg = ma + mf
( ) ( )
( ) ( ) ( )( )( )

2 to 3 process:

Thermal efficiency, ( ) ( )
( )

2. An engine-type generator with 30 poles generates 3-phase, 60-cycle current at 600V. Its rated
output is 400kW. Engine specifications: 40.64 cm 50.8 cm. Find the brake mean effective
pressure existing when line current is 360 amp; power factor, 0.80.

SOLUTION:

√ √ ( )( )( )

Since rated output is 400 kw, the generator operates,

( )

From figure A-16 P. 675 standard generator efficiency at (for 400 kw, 240rpm).
From table: 6.3 p. 185
Std. deduction for generator efficiency =
Thus, actual generator efficiency,

( ) ( )( )

Assume:
6 Cylinders
4 - Stroke

3. The shop test of an engine whose record is here reported was made for heat balance. Calculate a
four-item balance. Dynamometer torque, 651 kg-m at 450 rpm. A:F ratio, 27:1, speed 450 rpm.
Temperatures: Atmosphere, 26.7 , exhaust gas, 454.4 ; fuel temperature,23.9 ; coolant in,
55 ; out, 66.7 . Fuel flow, 86 ; coolant flow (c=1), 98 gpm. Hydrometer test of fuel oil,
0.945 S.G.

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SOLUTION:

Brake power, Qbp

( )( )( )
=

Cooling loss, Qcl

; Tave = average temperature for water
Tave
vw = vf @ 60.85
vw = 0.00102 ;
̇ ( )( )
Qcl = ( )( )( )

Exhaust loss, Qel

( )( )
mass of product of combustion, mg
mg= [ ]mf = (27+1)(87) = 2,436 ; ( )

correction of specific gravity:

( )
( ) ;
( ) 0.12
( )( )( ) ( )( )( )

Total heat generated,

[ ( ) ] [ ( ) ]

; friction, unwanted loss, etc, Qf

( ) ( )

Engine heat balance Distribution of heat energy

Useful loss 28.96 %
Cooling loss 28.67 %
Exhaust loss 35.45 %
Friction, unwanted loss, etc. 8. 42 %
100 %

4. A waste heat recovery boiler is being considered to recover 50 % of heat from the exhaust gas of
a 1800 kW (brake) diesel engine. Other data are as follows:

Brake specific fuel consumption : 0.22

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Fuel : C12H26
Excess air : 30 %
Air temperature : 30
Temperature of exhaust gas : 400
Specific heat of gases : 0.255
Temperature of jacket water used as boiler feed : 65
Steam generated at 0.20 MPa, dry and saturated
Boiler efficiency : 65 %
Find:
Air – fuel ratio
Heat of the exhaust gas in kW
Weight of steam produced in

SOLUTION:

Complete combustion equation w/ excess air:

( )( ) ( )( )( )
( )( )( ) ( )
( )( ) ( )( )( )
( )( )( ) ( )

( )( ) ( )( )
( )

b.
( )
Mass balance:

( )

( )

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( )
Mass of Vapor:
( )
( )( ) )
( )

( )( ) ( )

c.
From Steam Tables:

( )
( )

( )

5. When the pressure is 101.3 kPa and the temperature is 27 , a diesel engine has the full-throttle
characteristics listed:

Brake power : 275 kW

Brake specific fuel consumption : 0.25
Air-fuel ratio : 22
Mechanical efficiency : 88 %

If the engine is operated at 84.5 kPa and the temperature of 15.5 , find
Brake power
Mechanical efficiency
Brake specific fuel consumption
Air-fuel ratio

Solution:

. ( )

( )
( )( ) ( )

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( ) ( )
̇ ̇ ( )

( )

( )( )

̇ ̇ ( )

( )

6. Performance values of a 3 MW Diesel generating unit are as follows:

Fuel rate : 1.5 barrels for 900 kWh of 25 API fuel
Generator efficiency : 92 %
Mechanical efficiency : 82 %
Voltage, , three-phase, 60 hertz
Determine:
Engine-fuel rate
Engine generator fuel rate
Indicated thermal efficiency
Overall thermal efficiency
Brake thermal efficiency

SOLUTION:

( )

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( )( )

( )

a. Engine Fuel Rate:

a. Engine Generator Fuel rate

b. Indicated Thermal Efficiency:

( )( )
( )

c. Over-all Thermal Efficiency:

( )
( )

d. Brake Thermal Efficiency:

( )
( )

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Power Plant Engineering

Solution to the Sample Problems
Topic 6: Hydroelectric Power Plant

1. At a Hydraulic plant difference in elevation between the surface of the water at intake and at the
tailrace is 183 meters. When the flow is 2.266 m3/s, the friction loss in the penstock is 18m and
the head utilized by the turbine is 140m. The mechanical friction in the turbine is 75 kW, and the
leakage loss is 0.085 m3/s. Find:
a. Hydraulic efficiency
b. Volumetric efficiency
c. Power delivered to shaft
d. Brake horsepower
e. Mechanical efficiency
f. Turbine efficiency

SOLUTION:
a. Hydraulic efficiency

b. Volumetric efficiency

c. Power delivered to shaft

( )
( )( )( )

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d. Brake horsepower

( )

e. Mechanical efficiency
( )( )

( )( )

f. Turbine efficiency
( )( )( )
( )( )( )

2. A mini hydro-electric power plant found in Lanao has the following data: Francis type turbine
with a specified speed of 73 RPM, single runner;
Gross head at plant = 38m
Mean flow of water = 2.6 m3/s
Length of penstock = 39m
Diameter of penstock = 1m
Penstock friction factor = 0.02
Turbine efficiency = 85%
Generator efficiency = 90%

Determine:
a. Net effective head in meters
b. Turbine output
c. Generator capacity in kW
d. Number of poles of generator for 60 hz.

SOLUTION:

a. Net effective head in meters, h

Where:

[ ]
( )( ) ( )
( )

Then,

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b. Turbine output

( )( )( )( )

c. Generator capacity in kW
( )
( )

d. Number of poles of generator for 60 hz.

√

( )

Then,

( )

Recomputed rotation speed:

( )

3. A hydroelectric power plant has a difference in elevation from headwater to tail water of h = 50m
and the flow of Q = 5 m3/s of water through the turbine. The turbine shaft rotates at 180 rpm and
the torque in the shaft is measured to be T = 1.16 x 105 N-m. Output of the generator is 2100 kW.
Determine:
a. The power given up by the water to the turbine in kW
b. The power loss in the turbine in kW
c. The turbine and generator efficiency in percent
d. The annual energy production in kW-hr if the discharge us constant throughout the year.

SOLUTION:
a. The power given up by the water to the turbine in kW

( )( )( )

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b. The power loss in the turbine:

Where:

( )( )

Then,

c. The turbine and generator efficiency in percent

Then,

d. The annual energy production in kW-hr if the discharge us constant throughout the year.

4. The difference in elevation between the surface of the water in a large reservoir and the intake to
an impulse turbine was 40m. During a test, the pressure head at the latter point was 38m and the
discharge was 76 m3/min. The inside diameter of the penstock was 76 cm.
a. What is the efficiency of the pipeline?
b. What was the hp delivered to the turbine?
c. What was the friction loss?

SOLUTION:
a. What is the efficiency of the pipeline?

Where:

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* +
( )
( )

Then,

b. What was the hp delivered to the turbine?

( )( )( )( )

c. What was the friction loss?

5. The flow of water of 21.25 m3/s produces a total brake power of 5400 kW. It is proposed to
install two turbines, one of which is twice the capacity of the other. The efficiency and specific
speed of both units are assumed to be 85% and 70 rpm, respectively. Determine:
a. Head in meters
b. Rotative speed of each unit
c. Number of poles on generator for 60 hz.

SOLUTION:
a. Head in meters

( )( )

b. Rotative speed of each unit

Let: P = be the output of the smaller unit

2P = be the output of the larger unit

So,

P + 2P = 5400 kW
P = 1800 kW
2 P = 3600 kW

For smaller unit:

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( )

For larger unit:

√

( )

c. Number of poles on generator for 60 hz.

For smaller unit:

( )

For larger unit:

( )

Then, the recomputed rotation speed:

( )

( )

6. A proposed hydro-electric power plant has the following data:

Elevation of normal headwater surface = 194 m
Elevation of normal tailwater surface = 60m
Loss of head due to friction = 6.5m
Turbine discharge at full gate opening = 5 m3/s
Turbine efficiency at rated capacity = 90%
Turbine is to be connected at a 60 cycle, alternating current generator.
Required:

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a. What type of turbine would you specify?

b. Find the brake power of turbine in kW.
c. Find the number of poles in the generator.
d. Find the kW output of the direct connected generator if the efficiency is 94%.
e. What important data should be given to the manufacturers of hydraulic turbines and
accessories when asking for a quotation?

SOLUTION:
a. What type of turbine would you specify?

; use francis type turbine rated at 80-22 specific speed

b. Find the brake power of turbine in kW.

( )( )( )( )

c. Find the number of poles in the generator.

√

Assume for francis turbine be equal to 22 rpm

( )

Then,

( )

d. Find the kW output of the direct connected generator if the efficiency is 94%.
( )
( )( )

e. What important data should be given to the manufacturers of hydraulic turbines and
accessories when asking for a quotation?
1. Flow rate
2. Net head
3. Headwater elevation
4. Tailwater elevation
5. Location of turbine above tailwater.

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7. A hydroelectric plant has a generator motor efficiency of 96 %, turbine efficiency of 80% and a
pump efficiency of 75%. Average elevation between upper and lower pools = 30m. Assume 2%
loss of head in pipe friction. This unit is installed to carry a peak load of 1400 kw-hr. Daily
evaporation loss of stored water amounts to 907 tons. Calculate the overall efficiency of
conversion,

SOLUTION:
Evaporation
Illustration:
MOTOR
GEN

30 m
TURBIN
E

PUMP

 Solving for the Generator Output:

 Solving for the water flow rate:

( )[ ( )]
( )( )

 Solving for the daily evaporation loss, Qevap

( )

( )( )( )

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 Solving the Volume flow handled by a pump:

 Solving for the pump power:

( )( )[ ( )]

 Solving for the motor input:

( )

Thus, the over-all efficiency:

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