Simulation technology

Viability of Clean-Coal Power in South Korea

Korea Electric Power Research Institute uses operator training and dynamic simulation solutions to develop Taean-based IGCC power plant

Invensys Operations Management has delivered comprehensive simulation and training solutions to the Korea Electric Power Research Institute (KEPRI), South Korea's leading electric power research institute and part of Korea Electric Power Corporation (KEPCO).

Under the terms of the agreement, Invensys provided an operator training simulator (OTS), including its Dynsim® high-fidelity simulation for operator training and process engineering design studies and Wonderware InTouch® human machine interface (HMI) for graphic visualization of processes. Invensys also supplied engineering and technical services to develop the dynamic simulation models and to configure the HMI for operator training and engineering.

The solutions will be implemented at KEPRI's proposed generic-model integrated gasification combined cycle (IGCC) plant to be built in Taean, South Korea. Viewed as a state-of-the-art facility and testing ground, the plant will be used to prove the viability of clean-coal power plants worldwide. KEPRI process, mechanical and control engineers will use the dynamic simulators to understand new IGCC technology, make design decisions, prepare operating procedures and train plant operators.

"We needed a robust solution that was scalable, customizable and flexible enough to meet the special needs of our engineers during the design phase and to give our operators a jump start on learning this new technology," said Yong-Jin Joo, Ph.D., project manager, KEPRI/KEPCO. "I am extremely pleased with the dynamic model Invensys delivered. As the first OTS of the first IGCC plant in this country, the Invensys simulator will provide operational insight into applying IGCC technology, helping to lower the barriers to developing clean-coal power in South Korea and the world."

"Invensys has deep experience in dynamic modeling of coal gasification and providing operator training simulators in both the power and process industries," said Tobias Scheele, Ph.D., vice president, advanced applications, Invensys Operations Management. "Combining our IGCC industry knowledge with the flexibility and power of our Dynsim simulation program, we were able to provide KEPRI with a scalable OTS that will meet their growing needs."