The contract was awarded by the China National Machinery & Export Corporation (CMEC), which serves as a contractor for engineering projects. Ultimately, Puttalam will be a three-unit, 900MW power plant.
The Ovation control system, a component of Emerson’s PlantWeb digital plant architecture, will monitor and control the boiler and turbine, both of which are supplied by Harbin Power Equipment Company. The control system will also monitor flue gas desulphurisation system and balance of plant processes for Unit 1.
Emerson’s automation solution for Puttalam Unit 1 also includes its AMS Suite predictive maintenance software, which will provide operators with data from HART intelligent field devices installed throughout the plant.
For new plant construction, AMS Suite streamlines device configuration and commissioning, which contributes to plant startup. AMS Suite also provides online access to instrument and valve process information, diagnostic status information, and automatic documentation of all field device maintenance information – all contributing to ongoing efficiency of plant operations and maintenance activities.
In total, the Ovation system, which will also include 9 workstations and 18 controllers, will manage more than 6,400 hard and soft I/O points.
The first of three 300MW units is expected to be in commercial operation as soon as spring 2010, with the other two units expected to come on line in late 2010 or early 2011.
Bob Yeager, president of the power & water solutions division of Emerson, said: “This marks Emerson’s first Ovation installation in Sri Lanka, so we are particularly gratified that CMEC turned to Emerson to support what will be the largest power plant in the country.
“Earning this contract underscores the proven performance and universal appeal of Ovation technology, as well as the global capabilities Emerson offers.”
