Optimization of coal handling system performability for a thermal power plant using PSO algorithm
Grey Systems: Theory and Application
ISSN: 2043-9377
Article publication date: 7 May 2020
Issue publication date: 18 June 2020
Abstract
Purpose
This paper deals with the optimization of coal handling system performability for a thermal power plant.
Design/methodology/approach
Coal handling system comprises of five subsystems, namely Wagon Tippler, Crusher, Bunker, Feeder and Coal Mill. The partial differential equations are derived on the behalf of transition diagram by using the Markov approach. These partial differential equations are further solved to obtain the performance model with the help of normalization condition. Numerous performability levels are achieved by putting the appropriate combinations of failure and repair rates (FRRs) in performance model. Performability optimization for coal handling system is obtained by varying the population and generation size.
Findings
Highest performability level, that is, 93.33 at population size of 40 and 93.31 at generation size of 70, is observed.
Originality/value
The findings of this paper highlight the optimum value of performability level and FRRs for numerous subsystems. These findings are highly beneficial for plant administration to decide about the maintenance planning.
Keywords
Citation
Malik, S. and Tewari, P.C. (2020), "Optimization of coal handling system performability for a thermal power plant using PSO algorithm", Grey Systems: Theory and Application, Vol. 10 No. 3, pp. 359-376. https://doi.org/10.1108/GS-01-2020-0002
Publisher
:Emerald Publishing Limited
Copyright © 2020, Emerald Publishing Limited