Operating experience with a fluidized bed steam generator at Georgetown University

Operation of the 100,000 lb/h capacity, coal-fired fluidized bed steam generator at Georgetown University began in July 1979. This project, which was cofunded by Georgetown University and the US Department of Energy, involved expansion of the heating and cooling plant with this new coal fired facility. Previously existing units at the University heating and cooling plant normally fire natural gas. The fluidized bed steam generating facility at Georgetown University is the only new coal fired facility to be built in the Washington DC area in many years. The purpose of this program is to demonstrate industrial and institutional application of fluidized bed combustion using high sulfur coal in an environmentally acceptable manner in a populated area. The unit has been successfully operated for over 1400 h and in compliance with the strict emission regulations of Washington DC. Operation on automatic control has been achieved and only minor operating difficulties have been experienced. The design, operation and performance of the plant are discussed.