Evaluation of the energy efficiency of fuel-free electricity generation at gas pressure regulation stations

A detailed study of the characteristics of expander-generator sets has been conducted, and the most efficient method of gas preheating at the unit inlet has been selected, as this plays a key role in determining the specific fuel consumption for electricity generation. The analysis considers various parameters of expander-generator sets used as autonomous power sources for remote gas distribution stations and gas control points. Special attention is given to the methods of gas preheating before expansion, including the use of traditional boilers and the use of exhaust gases from gas turbine units. The calculations show that, at low gas preheating temperatures, using boilers is more practical, whereas, as the gas preheating temperature increases, using exhaust gases from a gas turbine unit becomes more economically advantageous. These results allow for the selection of the optimal gas preheating method depending on the operating conditions and the economic efficiency requirements of the unit.