Overview

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This course specialization offers a structured and industry-oriented introduction to power plant engineering, with a primary focus on coal-based thermal power plants. It begins by examining the global energy scenario and major power generation technologies, establishing the role of thermal power plants within modern power systems, along with key statutory, regulatory, and fire protection aspects. Learners develop a strong foundation in thermodynamics, covering basic principles and detailed analysis of thermodynamic cycles. The specialization explains the basic Rankine cycle, open- and closed-loop systems with condensers, and a range of modified Rankine cycles, including higher boiler pressure, superheated steam, reheat, and regenerative feedwater heating using open and closed feedwater heaters. The relationship between cycle efficiency and number of heaters, as well as the impact of irreversibilities in actual Rankine cycles, is clearly addressed. The Brayton (Joule) cycle is also introduced to broaden understanding of power generation cycles. The course then transitions to coal-based thermal power plants, highlighting subcritical and supercritical technologies, heat and mass balance diagrams, and key design and performance parameters. Practical understanding is strengthened through 3D models, virtual plant tours, turbine generator building layouts, and overall plant plot plan interpretation. Finally, learners analyze site selection factors—technical, economic, environmental, social, and accessibility—through real-world case studies.

Syllabus

Introduction, Energy Scenario and Basic Concepts
- This module provides a fundamental understanding of the global and industrial energy scenario, conventional and emerging power generation technologies, and the regulatory and statutory aspects associated with power plants, including fire protection requirements. It introduces basic thermodynamic concepts and thermodynamic cycles used in power generation, with detailed coverage of the Rankine cycle, its various modifications for improving efficiency, actual cycle performance, plant performance evaluation, and the Brayton (Joule) cycle. The module enables learners to understand the principles governing thermal power generation systems and the factors influencing their efficiency and performance.
Coal-Based Thermal Power Plants: Basics and Overview
- This module provides a comprehensive understanding of coal-based thermal power plants, including their classification, design principles, major components, and overall plant operation. It covers subcritical and supercritical power plant technologies, heat and mass balance concepts, basic design and performance parameters, plant layouts, and virtual visualization of thermal power plant systems. The module also introduces key factors involved in power plant site selection, including availability of natural resources, economic considerations, environmental impacts, social aspects, accessibility requirements, and practical case studies related to thermal power plant planning and development.