Modeling and dynamic analysis of IGCC system for varied gasification inputs

Abstract

The integrated coal gasification combined cycle (IGCC) is an efficient, coal-based power generation technology with strong potential for carbon neutrality. The future grid demands improved efficiency and flexibility in power systems. This paper presents a dynamic modeling approach for the IGCC system using advanced simulations. We analyze the system’s output characteristics under different combinations of oxygen, coal, and steam based on gasifier input parameters. Our findings show that higher O₂ concentration lowers the CO to H₂ ratio. At rated conditions, the optimal oxygen-to-coal ratio for maximum thermal efficiency is about 0.76; changes in steam-to-coal ratios have little effect on this result. As load decreases, the optimal oxygen-to-coal ratio increases; further load reductions raise this ratio even more. Notably, cutting coal flow by 40 % while reducing oxygen flow by only 35 % can boost net system efficiency by 1.75 percentage points. Additionally, stability time for slag layer thickness exceeds that for temperature and composition-about 4000 s compared to around 2000 s respectively. These results lay a foundation for exploring IGCC systems’ dynamic performance and provide insights into flexible regulation strategies.