Oklahoma State Improves Boiler Efficiency

About This Project

MicroMod was a natural choice for upgrading OSU’s five multi-burner boilers from old Bailey pneumatic controls to a state-of-the-art combustion control system. Ranging from 42,000 lbs/hr to 125,000 lbs/hr, the boilers were originally designed for dual fuels (oil & natural gas).

MicroMod replaced the aging pneumatics with a fully-metered combustion control system and Burner Management System, including new panels and instrumentation. A brand-new SCADA system with two flat-screen consoles provides operation and engineering stations, while the MOD 30ML controllers handle all the control and provide complete local operation if required. ABB’s ScreenMaster videographic recorders provide local recording and data collection. The complete system gives OSU the architecture and security of a truly distributed control system, without the high pricetag.

OSU chose MicroMod in a competitive bid against Honeywell, based not only on the equipment price but on MicroMod’s demonstrated expertise in boiler controls and operation. Detailed training for operations personnel ensured a smooth and confident transition from pneumatic to microprocessor-based controls.

The operators in the university’s boilerhouse have seen significant improvements in the operation and efficiency of the boilers. MicroMod is currently in the process of interfacing the university’s four electrical generating turbines into the system.