Advanced process control and imaging systems for grate optimization

The state-of-the-art solution automatically controls the grate by section and provides tools to monitor the bed inventory. By stabilizing the controls and increasing control accuracy, the new maximum grate capacity can be achieved while mitigating the risk of its overloading.

The continuous HD-quality view of the grate enables operators to foresee potential process upsets and prevent unplanned shutdowns, which improves combustion control and increases plant availability. In addition, the system has built-in alarms that signal undesired combustion or alert if expected combustion does not occur, boosting overall safety. Finally, the enhanced fuel combustion efficiency and flame control require less support fuel and help reduce emissions.

The Valmet Grate Combustion Vision application has been uniquely created for moving-grate boilers in waste-to-energy plants. The software application automatically detects the flame, measures the flame front location on the grate and presents the data in high-definition images. This real-time flame detection and monitoring allows operators to use the entire grate area minimizing the risk of overloading it.

The application shows all essential data on an intuitive display in the local control room. This ensures operators identify process issues quickly and effectively. Additionally, the solution enhances operational awareness by providing in-depth insights into flame characteristics. This enables operators to observe real-time and historical effects of adjusting specific parameters. As a result, the solution not only narrows the experience gap between operators but also ensures more uniform performance across different shifts.