EDF’s new-generation combined-cycle power plant (CCPP) in Bouchain, France, deploys electric actuators from AUMA for its challenging valve automation tasks.
With a record thermal efficiency of 62.22%, the plant was rated the world’s most efficient gas-fired power plant by Guinness World Records.
The plant uses a single GE 9HA gas turbine and has a generating capacity of 605MW.
To achieve such high efficiency, GE deployed an advanced distributed control system based on Foundation Fieldbus (FF) communication. AUMA actuators with FF interface seamlessly integrate into this environment.
In addition, EDF had already gained positive experience with AUMA actuators in all of its recent combined-cycle plants, namely Blénod, Martigues, and West Burton (UK).
Before installation, AUMA engineers worked closely with GE to adapt the electrical connections at the actuator controls to the specific requirements of the plant. AUMA also provided extensive training to EDF staff.
AUMA’s actuators are certified and registered with FieldComm Group, and comply fully with the Foundation Fieldbus H1 protocol.
A device description (DD) facilitates DCS integration. Parameters can be set or read remotely, and the full diagnostic capabilities provided by AUMA AC intelligent actuator controls can be exploited, thus enhancing process monitoring and increasing plant availability.
The devices are also able to act a link active schedulers (LAS) within the network.
