energies

Article
Effect of Inlet Air Heating on Gas Turbine Efficiency
under Partial Load
ZhiTan Liu 1 , XiaoDong Ren 2 , ZhiYuan Yan 1 , HongFei Zhu 1 , Tao Zhang 1 , Wei Zhu 2 and
XueSong Li 2, *
1 Guodian Science and Technology Research Institute, Nanjing 210023, China
2 Department of Energy and Power Engineering, Tsinghua University, Beijing 100084, China
* Correspondence: xs-li@mail.tsinghua.edu.cn




Received: 10 July 2019; Accepted: 23 August 2019; Published: 29 August 2019


Abstract: A novel heating technology is presented to analyze the influence of inlet air heating on
gas turbine efficiency under partial load. This technology uses the waste heat of a low-temperature
heat sources, which includes but is not limited to the exhaust gas of a combined-cycle heat-recovery
steam generator or a single-cycle gas turbine. A calculation model of the equilibrium running point
is used for the given load and the characteristic curves of the compressor and the turbine to study
the mechanism of the inlet air heating technology. Then, the equilibrium running line is calculated
and drawn in the characteristic curves of the compressor and the turbine. The factors for gas turbine
efficiency are discussed through the calculated equilibrium running line. The results show that an
increase in inlet air temperature has considerable potential for improving gas turbine efficiency due to
the increase in compressor and turbine efficiency. This finding is different from traditional viewpoints.
Meanwhile, each partial load has an optimum heating temperature which becomes higher when the
load is lower.

Keywords: Gas turbine; Inlet air heating; Partial load; Equilibrium running line; Gas turbine efficiency

1. Introduction
Heavy-duty gas turbines and their combined cycles have the advantages of high thermal efficiency,
clean emission, and good flexibility. In the context of energy security, high efficiency, and low carbon
development, the function of such turbines is being increasingly pursued [1]. A remarkable feature
of gas turbine performance is its sensitivity to atmospheric conditions, and any change in ambient
temperature evidently influences the power and efficiency of such gas turbines. Especially in the
summer, gas turbine output and efficiency both considerably decrease due to the increase in ambient
temperature [2]. Air cooling technologies for gas turbine inlets are often used to improve gas turbine
efficiency in gas turbine power plants, such as those in Saudi Arabia [3], Iran [4], India [5], and other
countries in West Asia. At present, research on inlet air cooling technology is rich and its application is
relatively mature. Many researchers have conducted relevant studies on the analysis and adoption
of various inlet air cooling methods to improve the maximum load and efficiency of gas turbines.
Kakaras [6] proposed an innovative integrated simulation of the absorption capabilities of refrigerating
machine technology to reduce inlet air temperature in gas turbine power plants. De [7] found that
imported evaporative cooling technologies are economical and simple to use but are suitable only
for dry and hot climates. These imported technologies can effectively improve gas turbine efficiency,
output power, and combined cycle efficiency by 3.2%, 110%, and 16%, respectively. Daryl [8] and
Sanjeev [9] found that the total output gain of a combined-cycle power station is much higher than
that of a gas turbine in single-cycle operation mode due to inlet air cooling. Furthermore, inlet air

Energies 2019, 12, 3327; doi:10.3390/en12173327 www.mdpi.com/journal/energies

Furthermore, inlet air cooling technology is suitable for gas generator sets that undertake basic load,
increasing the load during high-temperature periods.
However, many gas turbine plants often work off design, especially in China. For example,
Figure 1 shows the actual operating hours of a GE9171E gas turbine in a gas turbine power plant in
Energies 2019,
Tianjin, 12, 3327
China. The gas turbine baseload is 128.9 MW on the ISO standard condition, and the actual 2 of 11
Energies 2019,
operating 12, x are
hours FORapproximately
PEER REVIEW 6760 h in a year. According to Figure 1, the operating hours of2 the of 12
gas turbine
cooling are 6289 h
technology is under
suitable50%–90%
for gas load, whichsets
generator is the ratio
that betweenbasic
undertake the operating power quantity
load, increasing the load
cooling.
and the Furthermore,
rated power inlet air
capacity. In cooling technology
particular, the is suitable
operating hoursfor
aregas generator sets
approximately 50%that
of aundertake
year for
during high-temperature periods.
basic
around load, increasing
50% load. That the load during high-temperature periods.
However, many gasis,turbine
the unit basically
plants often operates
work off under
design,partial load;inthus,
especially inletFor
China. airexample,
cooling
However,
technology is many gas turbine plants often work off design, especially in China. For example,
inappropriate.
Figure 1 shows the actual operating hours of a GE9171E gas turbine in a gas turbine power plant in
Figure 1 shows the actual operating hours of a GE9171E gas turbine in a gas turbine power plant in
Tianjin, China. The gas turbine baseload is 128.9 MW on the ISO standard condition, and the actual
Tianjin, China. The gas turbine baseload is 128.9 MW on the ISO standard condition, and the actual
operating hours140 are approximately 6760 h in a year. According to Figure 1, the operating hours of the
operating hours are approximately 6760 h in a year. According to Figure 1, the operating hours of the
gas turbine are 6289 h under 50–90% load, which is the ratio between the operating power quantity and
gas turbine are 120 6289 h under 50%–90% load, which is the ratio Gas turbine
betweenbaseload
the operating power quantity
of GAS TURBINE, MW

the rated power capacity. In particular, the operating hours are approximately 50% of a year for around
and the rated power capacity. In particular, the operating hours are approximately 50% of a year for
50% load. That100 is, the unit basically operates under partial load; thus, inlet air cooling technology
around 50% load. That is, the unit basically operates under partial load; thus, inlet air cooling
is inappropriate.
technology is inappropriate.
80

140
60

120 Gas turbine baseload

MW

40
Load
Load of GAS TURBINE,

100
20

80
0
0 1000 2000 3000 4000 5000 6000 7000 8000 9000
60 Hours, h

Figure
40 1. Actual operating hours of GE9171E gas turbine in Tianjin, China.

Inlet air heating20 has been recently found to improve combined-cycle electric efficiency [10]. An
inlet air heating system that uses the waste heat of low-temperature heat source Figure 2 was built in
the gas turbine power 0 plant in Tianjin Figure 3. The low-temperature heat source includes, but is not
0 1000 2000 3000 4000 5000 6000 7000 8000 9000
limited to, the exhaust gas of a combined- or single-cycle Hours, h gas turbine.
However, awareness of the benefit of inlet air heating for gas turbine efficiency is low. Increasing
Figure
the inlet air temperature Actual
Figure1.1.is
Actual operating hours
hoursof
operatingbelieved
traditionally ofGE9171E
causegas
GE9171E
to gasturbine
turbine
reduced in
inTianjin,
gas turbineChina.
Tianjin, China.
efficiency due to the
resulting increase in the compressor power consumption. This study adopts a calculation model of
Inlet
Inletairairheating
heatinghas been
beenrecently
haspoint recentlyfound
found to
toimprove
improve combined-cycle
combined-cycle electric
electricefficiency
efficiency[10]. An
the equilibrium running through a single-shaft heavy-duty gas turbine. Results show[10].
thatAn a
inlet air heating system that uses the waste heat of low-temperature heat source Figure 22was built in
higher inlet air temperature than that of ISO standard conditions has considerable potential forin
inlet air heating system that uses the waste heat of low-temperature heat source Figure was built
the
thegas
gasturbine
turbine power
powerplant
plantin inTianjin
Tianjin Figure 3.3.The
Thelow-temperature
low-temperatureheat heatsource
sourceincludes,
includes,but
butisisnot
improving gas turbine efficiency under Figure
partial load. not
limited to, the exhaust gas of a combined- or single-cycle gas
limited to, the exhaust gas of a combined- or single-cycle gas turbine. turbine.
However, awareness of the benefit of inlet air heating for gas turbine efficiency is low. Increasing
the inlet air temperature is traditionally believed to cause reduced gas turbine efficiency due to the
resulting increase in the compressor power consumption. This study adopts a calculation model of
the equilibrium running point through a single-shaft heavy-duty gas turbine. Results show that a
higher inlet air temperature than that of ISO standard conditions has considerable potential for
improving gas turbine efficiency under partial load.

Figure 2.
Figure Diagramof
2. Diagram ofan
aninlet
inletair
airheating
heatingsystem
system of
of aa gas
gas turbine.
turbine.

Figure 2. Diagram of an inlet air heating system of a gas turbine.

Energies 2019, 12, 3327 3 of 11
Energies 2019, 12, x FOR PEER REVIEW 3 of 12

Figure 3. Inlet
Inlet air
air heating
heating system
system applied
applied in the gas turbine power plant in Tianjin, China.

However, awareness
2. Equilibrium of theand
Running Line benefit of inlet airAnalysis
Performance heating for gas turbine efficiency is low. Increasing
the inlet air temperature is traditionally believed to cause reduced gas turbine efficiency due to the
2.1. Modelincrease
resulting and Calculation Method power consumption. This study adopts a calculation model of the
in the compressor
equilibrium running point through a single-shaft heavy-duty gas turbine. Results show that a higher
The research object of this study is a heavy-duty gas turbine with a single-shaft structure. The
inlet air temperature than that of ISO standard conditions has considerable potential for improving gas
gas turbine comprises a compressor with IGV, a combustion chamber, and a turbine. Modeling and
turbine
simulationefficiency under partial
are generally usedload.
to analyze gas turbine performance. Flack [11] calculated the
performance
2. Equilibrium of Running
a single-shaft
Linepower generation gas
and Performance turbine using the parameter cycle method based
Analysis
on gas turbine characteristic curves and component-matching conditions. Wang [12-13] developed a
thermodynamic
2.1. cycle calculation
Model and Calculation Method method of a three-shaft gas turbine with a hybrid cooling model to
investigate the characteristics of gas turbines on a wide load range when the power turbine operates
The research object of this study is a heavy-duty gas turbine with a single-shaft structure. The
at a fixed physical speed. The cycle calculation model, as the basic work of the research, was initially
gas turbine comprises a compressor with IGV, a combustion chamber, and a turbine. Modeling
used for the selected gas turbine, and its compressor, combustion chamber, and turbine modules
and simulation are generally used to analyze gas turbine performance. Flack [11] calculated the
were all considered. Then, the cooling model was invoked through the turbine module, and the
performance of a single-shaft power generation gas turbine using the parameter cycle method based
mixing of cool air and gas was assumed to affect temperature and pressure in the turbine inlet. The
on gas turbine characteristic curves and component-matching conditions. Wang [12,13] developed a
compressible gas hybrid model of Hartsel [14] is adopted in calculating hybrid pressure loss to
thermodynamic cycle calculation method of a three-shaft gas turbine with a hybrid cooling model to
compute the time-delay pressure variation of the cooling air and mainstream gas mixture. Horlock
investigate the characteristics of gas turbines on a wide load range when the power turbine operates at
[15] and Jonsson [16] simplified the model and directly connected pressure loss to relative cooling air
a fixed physical speed. The cycle calculation model, as the basic work of the research, was initially used
mass flow.
for the selected gas turbine, and its compressor, combustion chamber, and turbine modules were all
Many researchers have also adopted the equilibrium running line in gas turbine research. Qusai
considered. Then, the cooling model was invoked through the turbine module, and the mixing of cool
[17] used a single-shaft gas turbine as the research object, established thermodynamic and
air and gas was assumed to affect temperature and pressure in the turbine inlet. The compressible gas
aerodynamic calculation models for each of its main components, and developed a calculation
hybrid model of Hartsel [14] is adopted in calculating hybrid pressure loss to compute the time-delay
method for steady-state performance to analyze the distance between the equilibrium running line
pressure variation of the cooling air and mainstream gas mixture. Horlock [15] and Jonsson [16]
of the gas generator. Pontus [18,19] discussed the influence of fuel composition on gas turbine
simplified the model and directly connected pressure loss to relative cooling air mass flow.
performance by analyzing changes in equilibrium running lines of gas generators. In the paper, the
Many researchers have also adopted the equilibrium running line in gas turbine research.
classical cycle calculation model with the equilibrium running line and a gas hybrid model [14] are
Qusai [17] used a single-shaft gas turbine as the research object, established thermodynamic and
used under specific load conditions to analyze the relational variations in gas turbine efficiency and
aerodynamic calculation models for each of its main components, and developed a calculation method
inlet air temperature.
for steady-state performance to analyze the distance between the equilibrium running line of the gas
generator.
2.2. AnalysisPontus [18,19] discussed
of Compressor the
Equilibrium influence
Running of fuel composition on gas turbine performance by
Line
analyzing changes in equilibrium running lines of gas generators. In the paper, the classical cycle
Inlet temperatures
calculation model with the from −15 °C to running
equilibrium 62 °C under constant
line and a gas load conditions
hybrid areare
model [14] selected in thisspecific
used under study
to analyze the effect of compressor inlet temperature on gas turbine performance comprehensively.
load conditions to analyze the relational variations in gas turbine efficiency and inlet air temperature.
The corrected speed and compressor efficiency lines of each inlet temperature are obtained on the
basis of the compressor characteristic curve. Seven inlet lines corresponding to varying air
temperature conditions are then obtained for simulation.
Energies 2019, 12, 3327 4 of 11

2.2. Analysis of Compressor Equilibrium Running Line

Inlet temperatures from −15 ◦ C to 62 ◦ C under constant load conditions are selected in this study
to analyze the effect of compressor inlet temperature on gas turbine performance comprehensively.
The corrected speed and compressor efficiency lines of each inlet temperature are obtained on the basis
of the compressor characteristic curve. Seven inlet lines corresponding to varying air temperature
conditions are then obtained for simulation.
After comparison and analysis of performance changes in certain loads, the multiple equilibrium
running linesEnergies
of these
2019, 12,varying
x FOR PEER loads
REVIEW can be drawn using the calculation method of 4the of 12 equilibrium

running line. Thus,After comparison and analysis of performance changes in certain loads, the multiple equilibriumsubsequently
the partial loads of 90%, 70%, and 50% are selected for calculation and
for the analysis of changes
running lines of these under
varyingpartial-load equilibrium
loads can be drawn running
using the calculation conditions
method relative to inlet air
of the equilibrium
running line. Thus, the partial loads of 90%, 70%, and 50% are selected for calculation and
heating. Then, the calculated equilibrium running points are drawn with the compressor characteristic
subsequently for the analysis of changes under partial-load equilibrium running conditions relative
line under 90%, 70%,
to inlet and 50%
air heating. load
Then, conditions,
the calculated as shown
equilibrium in points
running Figureare4. Thewith
drawn designed point (DP) is also
the compressor
presented in characteristic
Figure 5. The relative
line under 90%,pressure
70%, and 50%ratio and
load corrected
conditions, mass
as shown in flow
Figure rate
4. Theare both 1.0, and the
designed
point (DP) is also presented in Figure 4. The relative pressure ratio and corrected mass flow rate are
compressor and turbine efficiency values are 0.88 and 0.92, respectively.
both 1.0, and the compressor and turbine efficiency values are 0.88 and 0.92, respectively.

Figure 4. Figure 4. Equilibrium running lines on compressor characteristic line.

Equilibrium running lines on compressor characteristic line. Commented [M1]: The enter sign is no
please revise.
As shown in Figure 4, the position of the equilibrium running point gradually moves to the left
As shown withinthe
Figure
increase4,inthe inletposition of the
air temperature equilibrium
under running
constant partial-load point gradually
conditions, moves to the left
indicating a steady
decrease in inlet flow. With the temperature increase from −15
with the increase in inlet air temperature under constant partial-load conditions, indicating°C to 15 °C, relative pressure ratio a steady
tends to gradually decrease, but the change is minimal. Relative ◦pressure ratio ◦ tends to demonstrate
decrease in inlet flow. With the temperature increase from −15 C to 15
minimal increase as temperature starts to rise at 15 °C. The changes in compressor inlet air
C, relative pressure ratio tends
to gradually decrease, but the change is minimal. Relative pressure ratio tends
temperature have no notable influence on the relative pressure ratio. However, the change trend of to demonstrate minimal
the relative pressure
increase as temperature startsratio differs
to rise 15 ◦ C. low-
at between Theand high-temperature
changes in compressorair conditions.
inlet This difference
air temperature have no
can be attributed to the varying change trends of compressor efficiency relative to inlet air heating.
notable influence on the relative pressure ratio. However, the change trend
As depicted by the compressor characteristic curve, compressor efficiency increases from −15 °C to
of the relative pressure
ratio differs between
15 °C, but the low-trend and high-temperature
gradually declines as it reachesair 15
conditions.
°C. A theoreticalThis difference
analysis showed can that inbe attributed
to the varyingmaintaining
change atrendsconstant of load equilibrium running
compressor condition,
efficiency a certainto
relative relative
inletpressure ratio mustAs
air heating. be depicted by
increased under a high-temperature air condition to compensate for the noticeable decrease in
the compressor characteristic curve, compressor efficiency increases from −15 C to 15 ◦ C, but the
compressor efficiency. Similarly, a certain relative pressure ratio must be reduced under a low-
◦

trend gradually declines as it reaches ◦ C. A theoretical analysis showed that in maintaining a

temperature air condition to offset 15the marked increase in compressor efficiency. Overall, with an
increase in inlet air temperature,
constant load equilibrium running condition, a certain the following conditions are observed:
relative pressure the inlet
ratio flow considerably
must be increased under
decreases, the relative pressure ratio minimally changes, the compressor efficiency markedly varies,
a high-temperature air condition to compensate for the noticeable
and the equilibrium running point approaches the surge line under 90%, 70%, and 50% load
decrease in compressor efficiency.
Similarly, a certain relative pressure ratio must be reduced under a low-temperature air condition to
conditions.
offset the markedQuantitative
increase analyses are conducted
in compressor to determine
efficiency. the performance
Overall, with anof increase
each equilibrium
in inletrunning
air temperature,
point based on Figure 4. Figures 5 (a) and (b) show the change curves in compressor efficiency and
the followingpressure
conditionsratio, are observed:
respectively, the to
relative inlet
inletflow considerably
air heating. Figure 5 decreases,
(a) illustrates the
the relative
compressor pressure ratio
minimally changes,
efficienciesthe compressor
under 90%, 70%, and efficiency
50% loadmarkedly
conditions, invaries,
which and the increases
efficiency equilibrium running point
and then
approaches thedecreases
surgewith linetheunder
rise in inlet
90%,air70%,temperature.
and 50% For example, compressor efficiency under 50% load
load conditions.
is 77% when inlet air temperature is −15 °C, and the highest compressor efficiency is 86.8% at 27 °C.
 (a) (b)

(c) (d)

(e) (f)
Energies 2019, 12, 3327 5 of 11
(g) (h)

(a)

(b)

Figure 5. Compressor performance parameters at varying inlet air temperatures. (a) Compressor
efficiency; (b) Relative pressure ratio.

Quantitative analyses are conducted to determine the performance of each equilibrium running
point based on Figure 4. Figure 5a,b show the change curves in compressor efficiency and pressure
ratio, respectively, relative to inlet air heating. Figure
5 5a illustrates the compressor efficiencies under
90%, 70%, and 50% load conditions, in which efficiency increases and then decreases with the rise
in inlet air temperature. For example, compressor efficiency under 50% load is 77% when inlet air
temperature is −15 ◦ C, and the highest compressor efficiency is 86.8% at 27 ◦ C. The relative range of
change is remarkable, i.e., 11.3%. In addition, given the same inlet air temperature, a high load in the
low-temperature zone corresponds to a high compressor efficiency. By contrast, with the increase in
inlet air temperature, a low load corresponds to a high compressor efficiency. The highest compressor
efficiencies are 87.5%, 87.2%, and 86.8% under 90%, 70%, and 50% loads, respectively. The relative range
of change is approximately 0.7%; thus, a low load indicates a small maximum compressor efficiency
value. A decrease in load considerably affects compressor efficiency at constant inlet air temperature.
Furthermore, the highest compressor efficiency is realized at a distinct inlet air temperature that is
higher as the load diminishes.
As shown in Figure 5b, the relative pressure ratios under 90%, 70%, and 50% load conditions
decrease and then increase with the inlet air temperature. For example, the relative pressure ratio
under 50% load is 0.94 when inlet air temperature is −15 ◦ C, and the lowest relative pressure ratio is
0.85 at 27 ◦ C. The relative range of change is evident at 9%. Compared with the lowest relative pressure
ratio in Figure 5a, that in Figure 5b is apparent near the highest compressor efficiency point. The lowest
relative pressure ratios are 0.97, 0.92, and 0.85 under 90%, 70%, and 50% loads, respectively. The change
range is noticeable at approximately 12.4%; thus, the lower the load, the smaller the relative pressure
Energies 2019, 12, 3327 6 of 11
Energies 2019, 12, x FOR PEER REVIEW 6 of 12

ratio. Load change also has an evident influence on relative pressure ratio. In summary, a low load
ratio. In summary, a low load corresponds to a small compressor efficiency and relative pressure
corresponds to a small
ratio at low inlet compressor efficiency
air temperature, while on aandhotrelative pressure
day, i.e., 30 °C, ratio at lowload
a reduced inlet can
air temperature,
increase the
◦
while on a hot day, i.e., 30 C, a reduced load can increase the compressor efficiency. Load change and
compressor efficiency. Load change and inlet air heating have evident effects on compressor
inlet air heating
efficiency have evident
and relative effects
pressure ratio,onrespectively.
compressor efficiency and relative pressure ratio, respectively.

2.3. Analysis of Turbine Equilibrium Running Line

2.3 Analysis of Turbine Equilibrium Running Line
The same equilibrium running line calculation method is also adopted to analyze turbine
The same equilibrium running line calculation method is also adopted to analyze turbine
performance. The same partial loads (i.e., 90%, 70%, and 50%) are selected for calculation. The
performance. The same partial loads (i.e., 90%, 70%, and 50%) are selected for calculation. The
equilibrium running points of the inlet air temperature, which are drawn from the turbine characteristic
equilibrium running points of the inlet air temperature, which are drawn from the turbine
curve, are used to obtain the equilibrium running lines under 90%, 70%, and 50% load conditions, as
characteristic curve, are used to obtain the equilibrium running lines under 90%, 70%, and 50% load
shown in Figure 6.
conditions, as shown in Figure 6.

Figure 6.
Figure 6. Equilibrium
Equilibrium running lines on
running lines on aa turbine
turbine characteristic
characteristic line.
line.

positions of the equilibrium running points gradually move to the left of the
In Figure 6, the positions
turbine characteristic line with the increase in inlet air temperature under constant constant load
load conditions.
conditions.
The corrected speed of the the turbine
turbine gradually
gradually decreases, indicating a steady increase in turbine inlet
temperature at
temperature ataaconstant
constantload load equilibrium
equilibrium running
running point.
point. TheThe tendency
tendency of relative
of the the relative expansion
expansion ratio
ratio
is is identical
identical to thattoofthat
theof the relative
relative pressurepressure ratio given
ratio given the pressure
the pressure matching
matching relation.
relation. However, However,
when
whenairinlet
inlet air temperature
temperature shifts fromshifts
−15 ◦ C to
from −15
15°C ◦ C,to
the15changing
°C, the changing trendinisthe
trend is larger larger in the
relative relative
expansion
expansion
ratio than inratio than in the
the pressure pressure
ratio. ratio. The
The difference candifference can to
be attributed be the
attributed
use of theto turbine
the use cooling
of the turbine
model.
cooling
When model.airWhen
exhaust cooling exhaust
is usedairat cooling
relatively is low
used at relativelyexhaust
temperatures, low temperatures,
air mass flowexhaust air mass
is corrected and
flowhybrid
the is corrected
pressureandlosstheincreases.
hybrid pressure loss increases.
These phenomena These
result phenomena
in relatively result
large in relatively
expansion ratios.large
The
expansion
trends ratios.
are the same The trends
under the are
90%,the same
70%, and under
50% loadthe 90%, 70%, and
conditions. 50% load
However, withconditions.
the increase However,
in inlet
with
air the increaseturbine
temperature, in inletefficiency
air temperature,
changesturbine
differentlyefficiency
for thechanges
varying differently for therunning
load equilibrium varying lines.
load
equilibrium
For example,running lines. For example,
turbine efficiencies turbine efficiencies
increase gradually increase gradually
with the temperature from −15 ◦ C the
with to 15 ◦ C, but the
temperature
from −15
trends °C tostarting
change 15 °C, but the◦ C
at 15 trends
underchange
the 90% starting
and 70% at 15 °C conditions;
load under the 90% and 70%turbine
in contrast, load conditions;
efficiency
in contrast,
increases gradually from 15 ◦ Cincreases
turbine efficiency to 62 ◦ C gradually
under a 50% from 15 condition.
load °C to 62 °CInunder a 50%with
summary, loadan condition.
increase inIn
summary,
inlet with an increase
air temperature, changes in in
inlet air temperature,
turbine inlet temperaturechangesand inturbine
turbineefficiency
inlet temperature and turbine
become noticeable at
aefficiency
constant become noticeablerunning
load equilibrium at a constant
point.load equilibrium running point.
Quantitative analyses
Quantitative analysesare areperformed
performed on on
thethebasisbasis of Figure
of Figure 6 to determine
6 to determine the performance
the performance change
change in each equilibrium running point, as demonstrated in Figures
in each equilibrium running point, as demonstrated in Figure 7a,b. These figures correspond to the 7 (a) and (b). These figures
correspond
variation to theofvariation
curves curves ofand
turbine efficiency turbine
inletefficiency
temperature andrelative
inlet temperature
to inlet air relative
heating.toFigure
inlet air
7a
heating. Figure 7 (a) illustrates the gradual increase in turbine inlet temperature in which the
increasing trend is significant relative to inlet air heating under the 90%, 70%, and 50% load
Energies 2019, 12, 3327 7 of 11

illustrates the gradual increase in turbine inlet temperature in which the increasing trend is significant
relative to inlet air heating under the 90%, 70%, and 50% load conditions. For example, the turbine
inlet temperatures are 950.98 ◦ C at −15 ◦ C and 1260.9 ◦ C at 62 ◦ C under the 50% load condition. An
average increase of 5 ◦ C in inlet air temperature requires an increase of 30 ◦ C in the turbine inlet
temperature. Turbine inlet temperature reaches the maximum temperature limit under the 90% load
when the inlet air temperature is approximately 30 ◦ C. Moreover, the turbine inlet temperature reaches
the maximum temperature limit with 70% load when the inlet temperature is approximately 45 ◦ C.
In contrast, the maximum temperature limit under the 50% load condition is only realized when the
inlet temperature reaches 62 ◦ C. In summary, the turbine inlet temperature will reach its limit when
the inlet air temperature rises to a certain temperature. Moreover, the higher the load, the faster the
temperature reaches the limit under partial load conditions.

(a)

(b)

Figure 7. Turbine performance parameters with varying inlet air temperatures. (a) Turbine inlet
Citations can’t be added in the abstract
temperature; (b) Turbine efficiency
Here are some new rules about author names' expression style
Figure 7bIn plots
the first page,
the change trends of turbine efficiency relative to inlet air heating under 90%,
there is no comma
70%, and 50% load conditions. between II, III,
Turbine IV, 2nd, 3rd,
efficiency etc. andand
increases author names
then declines under the 90% load.
there is comma between Jr., Sr., and author names
When the inlet air temperature is −15 C, the value is 89.1%. The maximum value is 92.1% at 15 ◦ C
◦
e.g.,
with 3% variations. Turbine efficiency also increases and then declines under the 70% load. When
Charles J. Smith III
the inlet temperature is −15 ◦ C, the value is 87%. The maximum value is 91.2% at 38 ◦ C with 4.2%
John R. Smith, Jr.
variations. Moreover, turbine efficiency increases gradually within the calculation range under the
50% load. When the inlet temperature is −15 ◦ C, the value is 83.9%. The maximum value is 90% at
In the ref. list:
◦
62 C with 6.1%therevariations. TheseII,
is comma between findings indicate
III, IV, 2nd, that
3rd; Jr., theand
Sr., lower thenames
author load, the higher the optimal
inlet air temperature
e.g., and the more obvious the influence on turbine efficiency. In addition, within a
certain range Smith,
of inletC.J.,
air III
temperature, the turbine efficiency relative to inlet air heating under low-load
Smith, J.R., Jr.

6
Energies 2019, 12, 3327 8 of 11

conditions will exceed that under high-load conditions. In summary, the higher the load, the higher
the required turbine inlet temperature and efficiency. However, the turbine inlet temperature will
reach the temperature limit rapidly, and the turbine efficiency will decrease after a certain increase
given the rise in inlet temperature. Therefore, load change and inlet air heating significantly affect the
turbine inlet temperature and efficiency.

2.4. Analysis of Gas Turbine Efficiency

On the basis of the calculation of gas turbine efficiency (the ratio between the output power
W and the fuel calorific value) at each equilibrium running point, the gas turbine efficiency on
the equilibrium running lines relative to inlet air temperature is comprehensively analyzed under
partial-load conditions (i.e., 90%, 70%, and 50%), as exhibited in Figure 8. Gas turbine efficiency
increases and then decreases with inlet air heating under the three partial loads. This finding indicates
that inlet air heating within a certain range benefits gas turbine efficiency, and the optimal inlet air
temperature can be realized. In accordance with the comparative results, the maximum values of gas
turbine efficiency are reached at 15 ◦ C under the 90% load, 27 ◦ C under the 70% load, and 38 ◦ C under
the 50% load. These values of maximum gas turbine efficiency for the different partial loads relative to
varying inlet air temperatures represent a straight line. The lower the load, the higher the inlet air
temperature. Consequently, the highest gas turbine efficiency is achieved and enhanced. Meanwhile,
given the same load conditions, the lower the inlet temperature, the lower the gas turbine efficiency
if the inlet air temperature is lower than the optimum value (15 ◦ C at 90% load, 27 ◦ C at 70% load,
and 38 ◦ C at 50% load). For example, under a 90% load condition, the gas turbine efficiency is 35.57%
when the inlet temperature is −15 ◦ C, and the maximum value is 39.21% at 15 ◦ C, thereby indicating
an efficiency improvement of 3.64%. Under a 70% load condition, the efficiency is 31.72% when the
inlet temperature is −15 ◦ C, and the maximum value is 36.43% at 27 ◦ C, thus implying an efficiency
improvement of 4.71%. Under a 50% load condition, the efficiency is 26.2% when inlet temperature is
−15 ◦ C, and the maximum value is 31.1% at 38 ◦ C, thereby suggesting an efficiency improvement of
nearly 5%. These findings indicate that the lower the inlet air temperature, the lower the gas turbine
efficiency. In cases where inlet air heating technologies are used, the higher the inlet air temperature,
the more evident the gas turbine efficiency improvement at lower loads.
The influence of inlet air heating on gas turbine efficiency is analyzed on the basis of the combined
interpretations of Figures 5 and 7. The improvement of gas turbine efficiency at low temperatures
from −15 ◦ C to 15 ◦ C can be explained by the increased values of compressor and turbine efficiencies
relative to turbine inlet temperature even when the rise in inlet temperature results in the increase
in compressor power consumption and decrease in compression ratio under the 90%, 70%, and 50%
load conditions.
Under a 70% load condition, gas turbine efficiency is promoted from 15 ◦ C to 27 ◦ C. This
observation corresponds to the gradual rise in compressor efficiency. The pressure ratio increases
simultaneously, and turbine inlet temperature and efficiency also increase. The decline beyond 27 ◦ C
can be attributed to the declining trend of compressor and turbine efficiencies, and the increasing trend
of the pressure ratio ultimately flattens.
Under a 50% load condition, the decline in gas turbine efficiency can be attributed to the rise in
inlet air temperature to 38 ◦ C. Although the pressure ratio, turbine inlet temperature, and turbine
efficiency have increasing trends, they cannot compensate for the negative impact caused by the
apparent decrease in compressor efficiency.
In summary, the analysis of the different constant partial-load conditions implies that inlet air
heating significantly affects compressor efficiency, pressure ratio, turbine inlet temperature, and turbine
efficiency. Given the increase in inlet air temperature, the trends of pressure ratio and gas turbine
efficiency differ, but the trends of compressor and turbine efficiencies are consistent with that of
gas turbine efficiency. Inlet air temperature rises relative to the maximum efficiency when the load
decreases. The trend of turbine efficiency is nearly similar to that of gas turbine efficiency. In addition,
Energies 2019, 12, 3327 9 of 11

the turbine inlet temperature increases gradually. The findings can be explained by the improvements
in turbine and compressor efficiencies, the increase in turbine inlet temperature, and most especially
by the increase
Energiesin compressor
2019, 12, x FOR PEER and turbine efficiencies, which were found to be crucial in
REVIEW 9 ofthis
12 study.

Figure
Figure 8. Gas8.turbine
Gas turbine efficiencywith
efficiency with varying
varying inlet air temperatures.
inlet air temperatures.
The influence of inlet air heating on gas turbine efficiency is analyzed on the basis of the
3. Operating Data from a Gas Turbine Power Plant
combined interpretations of Figures 5 and 7. The improvement of gas turbine efficiency at low
Some temperatures
operating data from are
−15 °C to 15 °C can
presented be explained
in Table 1. Thebydatathe increased valuesare
in this table of compressor and the gas
obtained from
turbine efficiencies relative to turbine inlet temperature even when the rise in inlet temperature
turbine power plant in Tianjin. These data support the research result. In Table 1, an increase in inlet
results in the increase in compressor power consumption and decrease in compression ratio under
air temperature
the 90%, can improve
70%, and 50% gasload turbine
conditions. efficiency when the load rate (the operating power quantity
divided by theUnder
baseload)
a 70%isload
constant.
condition, gas turbine efficiency is promoted from 15 °C to 27 °C. This
observation corresponds to the gradual rise in compressor efficiency. The pressure ratio increases
simultaneously,
Tableand
1. turbine
Operating inletdata
temperature
from the and
gasefficiency
turbinealso increase.
power plantThe
in decline
Tianjin.beyond 27 °C
can be attributed to the declining trend of compressor and turbine efficiencies, and the increasing
trend
Inlet ofAirtheTemperature
pressure ratio ultimatelyLoad flattens.
Rate of Gas Turbine Gas Turbine Efficiency
Under a 50% load condition, the decline in gas turbine efficiency can be attributed to the rise in
◦C
inlet air 22.34
temperature to 38 °C. Although the 55%pressure
(70.90 MW)
ratio, turbine inlet temperature, 27.50%
and turbine
−2.45 ◦C
efficiency have increasing trends, they cannot compensate for the negative impact26.63%
55% (70.90MW) caused by the
apparent decrease in compressor efficiency.
In summary, the analysis of the different constant partial-load conditions implies that inlet air
Givenheating
that the compressor
significantly affectsand turbineefficiency,
compressor characteristic
pressure curves, whichinlet
ratio, turbine cannot be provided
temperature, and by the
power plant, are different from those in Section 2, the operating data in Table
turbine efficiency. Given the increase in inlet air temperature, the trends of pressure ratio and gas 1 demonstrate some
turbine efficiency differ, but the trends of compressor and turbine efficiencies
differences from the calculated data (Figure 8) in the quantification. However, these operating data are consistent with that
of gas turbine efficiency. Inlet air temperature rises relative to the maximum efficiency when the load
also support the finding that a high inlet air temperature has considerable potential for improving
decreases. The trend of turbine efficiency is nearly similar to that of gas turbine efficiency. In addition,
gas turbinetheefficiency.
turbine inlet These data can
temperature also begradually.
increases explained Thethrough
findings the
can analysis
be explainedin Section
by the 2. A gas
turbine that operates ininpartial
improvements turbine load indicatesefficiencies,
and compressor that the running
the increase point is under
in turbine an off-design
inlet temperature, andcondition.
mostthe
Furthermore, especially
runningby the increase
point tends in compressor
to the designand turbine efficiencies,
condition when which
thewere found to be crucial
air temperature tends to the
in this study.
optimal temperature, thereby increasing the compressor and turbine efficiencies and improving the
gas turbine3.efficiency. Therefore,
Operating Data from a Gas the findings
Turbine Powerpresented
Plant in Section 2 can be applied to other engines
and have extensive applicability.
Some operating data are presented in Table 1. The data in this table are obtained from the gas
However,
turbinethe testplant
power data summarized
in Tianjin. These datain Tablethe1 research
support show result.
a difference
In Table 1,in
an gas turbine
increase in inletefficiency,
which is approximately 50% of the predictions depicted in Figure 8 (test data nearly 1%, predictions
approximately 2%). Therefore, the effect of inlet air heating on gas turbine efficiency under partial load
may differ for various gas turbines. Section 2.4 explains one unfavorable and three favorable factors
for gas turbine efficiency when using inlet air heating technology. The unfavorable factor refers to
the increase in compressor power consumption, and the three favorable factors denote the increase in
Energies 2019, 12, 3327 10 of 11

compressor efficiency, turbine efficiency, and turbine inlet temperature. The turbine inlet temperature
increases with increasing of the inlet air temperature, as illustrated in Figure 7a. However, as shown in
Figures 5a and 7b, compressor and turbine efficiencies display peaks, which correspond to different
inlet air temperatures. Simultaneously, change amplitudes of the three factors maybe different for
different gas turbine. Thus, a matching relationship occurs between compressor efficiency, turbine
efficiency, and turbine inlet temperature at different inlet air temperatures. If the three factors do not
match well, then the gas turbine efficiency will be directly affected or even reduced if the unfavorable
factor cannot be overcome by the three favorable factors.
Therefore, inlet air heating demonstrates the considerable potential for improving gas turbine
efficiency under partial load. However, whether the inlet air heating is acceptable must be analyzed in
accordance with the characteristics of different gas turbine units.

4. Conclusions
A novel inlet air heating technology for gas turbines under partial-load conditions is proposed.
This technology uses waste heat of a low-temperature heat source to increase the compressor inlet
air temperature. A calculation method is used for the compressor and turbine equilibrium running
lines to study the mechanism of the heating technology. The equilibrium running lines obtained
through the method involve three conditions, namely, 90%, 70%, and 50% partial loads. On the basis of
the combined results of compressor efficiency, relative pressure ratio, turbine inlet temperature, and
turbine efficiency, the effectual mechanisms of different inlet temperatures on gas turbine efficiency are
comprehensively analyzed. The conclusions drawn from the analyses are presented as follows:

(1). The inlet air heating technology has considerable potential for improving gas turbine efficiency,
which is different from the traditional viewpoint.
(2). An optimal inlet temperature exists for a certain load. Therefore, heating technology is appropriate
when the ambient temperature is lower than the optimal inlet temperature; otherwise, cooling
technology is appropriate.
(3). A low load indicates a high optimal inlet temperature and a noticeable gas turbine efficiency
improvement. Thus, heating technology, rather than cooling technology, under partial-load
conditions is required.
(4). The gas turbine efficiency improvement caused by inlet air heating under partial-load conditions
can be explained. That is, inlet air temperature tends to the optimal temperature to make the
running point tend to the design condition. Thus, turbine inlet temperature is known to rise, and
compressor and turbine efficiencies increase as discovered in this study.

Author Contributions: Conceptualization, Z.L., X.R. and X.L.; Data curation, Z.T., Z.Y. and W.Z.; Investigation,
X.R., Z.Y., H.Z., T.Z., W.Z. and X.L.; Methodology, X.R., X.L.; Supervision, X.L.; Validation, Z.L., W.Z. and X.L.;
Writing—Original draft, W.Z.
Funding: This work is supported by Project 2017-II-0007-0021 of the National Science and Technology Major
Project of China.
Conflicts of Interest: The authors declare no conflict of interest.

Nomenclature
Acronyms
HRSG heat recovery steam generator
IGV inlet guide vane
0D 0 dimension
DP designed point
ISO Temperature-15 (◦ C), Relative Humidity-60%, Ambient Pressure at Sea Level
Energies 2019, 12, 3327 11 of 11

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