A model for performance optimization of wet flue gas desulfurization systems of power plants

In this paper, a model of limestone/gypsum wet flue gas desulfurization (WFGD) system was developed based on unsteady theory. The models of processes of absorption section and oxidation section were developed and incorporated into the WFGD integral model. The sub-model of motion of slurry drops, absorption of SO₂, dissolution of limestone and crystallization of gypsum were included in the model of absorption section, while the model of oxidation section was developed by the population balance theory. The calculation results of the desulfurization system for 300 MW utility in China by this model was compared to that of corresponding measured results. The simulation results agreed with the measurement results very well. The operation mode of boilers of power plant in China is different to that of other countries since variable coal property and unstable loads of boilers. The differences of operation mode lead to the variation of process parameters of WFGD system. The influences of liquid-to-gas ratio, SO₂ concentration of inlet flue gas, and combination mode of different spray levels to the desulfurization efficiency were analyzed. Based on the analysis, some advices of performance optimization of flue gas desulfurization systems in China were suggested.