Alstom Completes Trial Operation At Herne Coal Power Plant

Alstom successfully completed the retrofit project for Unit 4 of the Herne coal power plant in Germany on behalf of Steag GmbH today. The high-pressure steam turbine section has been completely replaced, with an efficiency increase to state-of-the-art levels and the corresponding specific CO2 plant emissions have been significantly reduced. The retrofit measures in Unit 4, a 500 MW unit that entered operation in 1989, was installed, synchronised and connected to the grid on 20th of July 2013. The unit achieved its full load four days later and the trial operation period has just been successfully completed, exceeding performance targets and meeting all schedule commitments.

In addition to increasing the efficiency of the unit, the retrofit has also resulted in an improved operational flexibility within the existing power plant. “We are happy to have exceeded the performance that we promised Steag. The project was very successful from the planning phase right through to the on-site installation and commissioning works. We are proud to have contributed to this improvement in energy supply in Germany with this equipment” says Norbert Heinemann, the Alstom Project Manager.

The replacement of the high pressure turbine section is relevant for the cost-effective operation of the power plant. “The execution of the order by Alstom was characterized by a high competency and a pleasant cooperation in each stage of the project. All of the ordered characteristics of the high pressure turbine section have been either achieved or even exceeded” adds Dr. Hüseyin Rall, power plant manager.

The new high-pressure steam turbine section consists of a new bladed rotor, stationary blades and casing parts and main steam valves, as well as new control hydraulics. The latter, with its control and protective function, is regarded as a vital element in contributing to the improved operation of the turbine. Alstom received the order from Steag GmbH, the fifth-largest electricity producer in Germany, to retrofit block 4 of the Herne hard-coal power plant in February 2012.