Influence of Cuban crude oil combustion on the performance of the 100 MW boiler dampers mechanism

Keywords: cuban fuel oil; deposits, friction, dampers.

Abstract

In Cuba, the current energy matrix relies primarily on thermal power plants for generation. Due to the global economic crisis and high prices of imported fuel, the use of domestic crude oil with high vanadium and sulfur content was adopted. The combustion of these heavy fuels generates adhesion, friction, and compaction forces significantly greater than those of lighter fuels, which considerably affect the gate regulation mechanism in the boilers of 100 MW generating units. This work calculates these forces from the combustion of MAZUT 20, MAZUT 100, and Cuban crude oil (PCNm 1100) and models the stresses and safety factor in the cast iron actuating arm 24 (NC 46-02) of the gates because of the influence of the fuel properties. The modeling results show significant increases in stress when using domestic crude oil and confirm the occurrence of a fracture due to sudden overloading of the actuating arm, necessitating material replacement. It is ultimately proposed that the material be replaced to ensure greater operational safety in the gas gate mechanism. The implemented solution has allowed for the stable operation of this important mechanism even under domestic crude oil combustion conditions.
Keywords: cuban fuel oil

References

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Published
2026-04-27
How to Cite
Martínez-Pico, O., Sagaró-Zamora, R., & Ojeda-Armaignac, E. (2026). Influence of Cuban crude oil combustion on the performance of the 100 MW boiler dampers mechanism. Chemical Technology, 46, 160-177. Retrieved from https://tecnologiaquimica.uo.edu.cu/index.php/tq/article/view/5535
Section
Artículos