Fire-proof power generation:
Complete protections for power plants
The two new power plant blocks in Hamm/Westphalia, which are due to begin operation with around 1600 megawatts in the middle of 2011 and the beginning of 2012 to provide electricity for 3.2 million households per year, are the world's most modern system of this type. The huge efficiency of the plants is enabled through the use of advanced power plant technology, which amongst other things, allows extremely high steam temperatures and pressure. Nevertheless, this technology presents a considerable risk of fire. The Westphalia power plant features complete system solutions by Minimax, which offer optimal protection in all dangerous areas.
Minimax spray water extinguishing systems are an efficient solution for high-risk areas in which fires can spread extremely rapidly. These systems operate with open extinguishing nozzles, which distribute water all over the protected area in the event of a fire. Spray water increases the size of the extinguishing area, combating heat emission and cooling burnt materials. This cooling effect is enhanced by a suffocation effect, given that the water vapour produced blocks the oxygen supply to the source of the fire. In the new power plant blocks, spray water extinguishing systems not only ensure protection for turbines, but also for transformers, cable ducts, rooms and conduits.
Conveyor belts in coal loading units are protected by water mist systems. The water mist separates the individual fire zones to prevent fire from spreading.
430 hydrant systems and 1200 powder and CO2 extinguishers are distributed throughout the complete plant for initial, manual extinguishing.
Starting in autumn 2009, fire protection systems will be provided to a similar scope at Eemshaven power plant in the Netherlands. As part of a convoy development, RWE Power aims to construct two more 800 MW coal power plants here. The convoy project is due to conclude in 2013 with the two advanced double-block plants, equipped with complete fire protection, shaping the future of energy supply in Germany and the Netherlands.
