Comparison of ASME PTC-46 Performance Test Correction Factors as Estimated in a Project Proposal Phase to Those Determined During Project Implementation

Accurate performance correction equations are essential to the successful implementation of an initial performance test of a new unit, and to continually monitor performance in a meaningful way. Developers of these formulations must consider the latest design information of all major equipment in the cycle. Per Section 5.3.5 of ASME PTC 46–1996 [Ref. 1], these corrections are to be developed from a heat balance computer model after it is “finalized following purchase of all major equipment and receipt of performance information from all vendors.” This paper reviews the requirements for the development of accurate correction curve/factor formulations for a typical combined cycle power plant, and demonstrates how significantly skewed the results of a test can be if assumptions on equipment design performance are made prior to manufacturers’ final submittals.