The Pasargad Energy Group, in collaboration with the Shams Pasargad Power Generation Company (Tabesh), has established the IPCM Center at the Shariati Combined Cycle Power Plant in Mashhad. The goal of this center is to advance technologies and enhance technical knowledge in the field of managing power plant equipment. The development of this center has been carried out by the technology and innovation management of the Pasargad Energy Group and Shams Pasargad Power Generation Company, in cooperation with Sharif University, using modern data monitoring methods for power plant equipment (such as gas and steam turbines).
This center can also be used for the smart monitoring of other power plants to develop power plant management technologies nationwide. Online condition monitoring of rotating equipment in power plants, especially turbines, is one of the most critical aspects of managing and maintaining these facilities. Advanced technologies and artificial intelligence are employed to collect and analyze data online by installing and selecting appropriate sensors and creating transmission and communication networks.
Benefits of Online Condition Monitoring of Rotating Equipment:
• Reducing imbalances with preventive actions and performance optimization: Preventing imbalances between energy production and consumption by maintaining equipment performance stability.
• Increasing equipment lifespan: Reducing the need for frequent repairs and increasing efficiency.
• Reducing maintenance and repair costs: Timely and cost-effective repairs.
• Increasing predictability and reducing failures: Enhancing efficiency and reducing operational costs.
Capabilities of the IPCM CENTER for Smart Power Plant Condition Monitoring:
The Pasargad Energy Group's Smart Power Plant Condition Monitoring Center comprises three main sections, each designed to precisely monitor and optimize power plant management processes:
• First Section: Online Monitoring of Performance and Vibration Data of Turbine
This system enables online monitoring and comparison of the performance of turbines, generators, and other key equipment with their healthy state. If any equipment deviates from the optimal values, the system issues necessary warnings to prevent potential failures or performance reduction.
• Second Section: Predictive Analysis and Performance Optimization
The system accurately analyzes and predicts the condition of equipment and the power plant's performance, especially for simulating failure conditions and predicting maintenance needs.
• Third Section: Making Quick and Timely Decisions Based on Real-Time Data
By providing quick and integrated access to data related to the power plant's performance, the system allows managers and experts to make strategic and operational decisions effectively and at the right time. This feature helps reduce downtime and enhance the overall efficiency of the power plant.
Ongoing Development Programs at the IPCM Center:
• Using Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning for Predictive Maintenance
By using machine learning algorithms and analyzing past data, it is possible to achieve more accurate predictions of failures, anomalies, and even preventive maintenance needs. These systems can simulate abnormal trends based on past data and send timely warnings.
• Creating Analytical Dashboards for Timely Decision Making
For managers and operators, having visual analytical dashboards that display integrated information and the status of the power plant is very useful. These dashboards can comprehensively display information such as equipment performance, failure predictions, energy production trends, and safety status.
• Enhancing Cybersecurity
To protect data and smart systems in power plants, advanced cybersecurity systems must be used. These systems can prevent cyber-attacks and unauthorized access to sensitive power plant information.
• Big Data Analytics for Performance Optimization
By collecting and analyzing a large volume of performance and vibration data of power plant equipment, new optimization patterns can be identified, leading to improvements in energy consumption, downtime reduction, and overall plant efficiency. Additionally, big data analysis helps identify weaknesses and enhance efficiency.
Conclusion and Future Outlook
The establishment of the IPCM CENTER by Pasargad Energy Group and Shams Pasargad Power Generation Company is a significant step towards achieving technical knowledge and indigenous technologies in the field of power plant management, providing better operational efficiency and reducing operational risks. This center serves as a platform for conducting scientific and practical research alongside industry, with the ability to enhance technology and increase technical knowledge in the country.