MECH 3380 Power Plant Engineering

Study of steam, gas, and combined cycle power generation systems.

Course overview

This course covers the principles of steam, gas, and combined cycle power generation. You will explore the thermodynamic cycles that drive modern power plants, including Rankine and Brayton cycles. The curriculum examines how these systems convert thermal energy into electrical power, with a focus on efficiency, heat recovery, and emissions control.

You will learn to analyse system performance using simulation tools and evaluate the integration of various components such as boilers, turbines, condensers, and heat recovery steam generators. The course also looks at the instrumentation and control systems essential for safe and efficient plant operation, as well as the environmental considerations governing modern power generation.

Who takes this course

• Mechanical Engineering Technology

Credits: 3 · Hours: 45

Prerequisites

• MECH 2120 Thermodynamics I
• MECH 2890 Heat Transfer
• MECH 3100 Instrumentation and Control

Learning outcomes

• Analyse the thermodynamic cycles used in modern steam and gas turbine power plants.
• Evaluate the efficiency of combined cycle systems and identify opportunities for improvement.
• Calculate heat transfer requirements for boilers, condensers, and heat recovery steam generators.
• Assess the role of instrumentation and control systems in plant safety and operation.
• Review environmental regulations affecting emissions from fossil fuel and combined cycle plants.

Evaluation