SOLUTION
As the design team, we served as the engineering extension of KCP&L from concept through implementation to replace the ash handling system on the 740-MW unit. Tasks included initial study, conceptual design, equipment specifications, construction specifications, general layout, contract management, construction management, collaboration with the contractor team, and assistance during startup and commissioning.
When the old ash handling system was in place, a water and ash mixture was pumped out to a pond. The new system that was installed, including a submerged flight conveyer, dry flight conveyer and fly ash vacuum system, allows the power plant owner to sell the ash or dispose of it in an on-site or off-site landfill.
The operation cycle with the new bottom ash handling system is designed to be very simple. Ash falls from the boiler into a water trough to allow the ash to cool. Next, flight bars pulled by chains take the ash and move it along a dewatering ramp. Once the ash makes it to the top of the ramp, it goes through a chute into a concrete bunker, where it is then loaded and ready for transportation to the landfill. Once that cycle is complete, the flights continue through the lower dry trough and eventually return to the upper trough to begin the next round.
