3.00 Credits
This course is designed to introduce the electrical power production technician to the integral phases, processes, and equipment associated with the generation of electricity. The study of processes leading to the ultimate production of electricity (via generation) will include: fuel handling, boilers, prime movers, and most importantly generators (environmental concerns will be addressed for each phase of production). The inter-relationships among the three areas of electricity production; generation, transmission, and distribution will also be covered. Aspects of distributed generation (the installation of small units to meet industry needs) will be included as well. Green power units such as fuel cells, solar power, and renewable energy for the production of electricity will also be discussed.Upon completion of this course, students should be able to: Discuss use, as it relates to the planning and development of electric power stations to include site selection, construction cost, fuel cost and the types of power station units available. Relate energy conversions necessary for electricity production, namely; combustion, heat and temperature, and compare and contrast fuels. Describe the handling processes (as they relate to delivery, storage, utilization, and waste recovery) associated with electric power generation plant fuels. Relate varied furnace type requirements, heat sources, furnace combustion, types of fuels used, and the rate of combustion necessary to produce steam efficiently. Identify the make-up of a boiler, heat transfer tubes, heater elements, fuel burners, air supply (both forced and induced draft), feed water, heat exchangers, and steam vessels. Explain and demonstrate the operation of an electrically powered boiler (as a steam generator). Elaborate on the internal combustion engine, reciprocating steam engine and steam turbine, with regard to utilization as a prime mover for electricity production (describing their use in converting heat energy to mechanical energy for use in driving electric generators). Describe the design and operation of various generator types, relating the use of magnetism for their operation. Explain the properties of electric generators, with regard to output, phasing, series vs. parallel operation, synchronization, and how each is type of generator is used for producing electricity. Discuss the coordination of the equipment and processes necessary for producing electricity; namely, the appropriate actions necessary for operators to achieve safe, efficient, and reliable electricity generation. Describe the relevance of the three broad classifications of maintenance (normal, emergency, and preventive) with respect to the operation of an electric power plant. Utilize fuel to site the basis reasons for the implementation of green power. Compare and contrast green power systems with regard to the generation of electricity, to include; wind, fuel cells, solar, hydro, nuclear, geo-thermal, micro turbines and bagasse (burning of vegetation).
Prerequisite:
Prerequisites: TME 115 and TEL 101 and TEL 102* and CHE 101* *Courses marked with a star may be taken concurrently.