Analyzing the Impact of Operating Conditions and Ambient Temperature on Gas Turbine Power Plant Performance

Abstract

This study investigates how operating parameters specifically compression ratio and air-to-fuel ratio along with ambient temperature impact the overall performance of a gas turbine power plant. An analytical model was developed using Microsoft Excel to assess the plant's operational characteristics across varying environmental temperatures. Such an assessment is particularly vital for regions like Libya, which experience significant temperature fluctuations annually. Findings indicate that greater compression ratios enhance both specific work output and thermal efficiency, whereas elevated ambient temperatures and higher air-to-fuel ratios diminish them. Furthermore, specific fuel consumption rises as the ambient temperature and air-to-fuel ratio increase, particularly at lower compression ratios.