FCS EXPERT INSTRUCTORS

Offer IGCC Simulator Training with VIRTUAL REALITY at NETL's AVESTAR Center

Established by the U.S. DOE's National Energy Technology Laboratory (NETL), the Advanced Virtual Energy Simulation Training And Research (AVESTAR) Center is dedicated to state-of-the-art training and research, with focus on Integrated Gasification Combined Cycle (IGCC) technology. AVESTAR features a one-of-a-kind, dynamic, operator training simulator modeling a 520 MW (net) IGCC plant. In the IGCC plant, solid fuel (including coal, petroleum coke and biomass) is gasified to produce a hydrogen-rich synthetic gas (syngas) that is burned in gas turbines. The 520 MW (net) simulated plant, has two gasification trains that feed a combined cycle plant with two F-class gas turbines, each feeding a three-pressure Heat Recovery Steam Generator (HRSG), and a single steam turbine. The gasification process incorporates CO₂ capture and compression.

The IGCC simulator is integrated with an Immersive Training System (ITS) that provides a three-dimensional, virtual reality model of the IGCC plant. The ITS allows trainees to walk through the virtual plant to monitor and operate plant equipment. The virtual plant incorporates features like transparent equipment that allows trainees to view a process inside the equipment.

The Combined Cycle and Gasification portions of the IGCC simulator can be operated separately as well as in a seamless integrated mode to simulate the entire IGCC. This allows training in any of the following three modes, depending on the needs of the trainees.

Combined Cycle Simulator plant simulation with ITS
Gasification plant simulation with ITS
Integrated Gasification Combined Cycle plant simulation with ITS

The IGCC dynamic simulator with ITS is installed at the AVESTAR Center's two locations, NETL and West Virginia University's National Research Center for Coal & Energy, both in Morgantown, WV. Courses utilizing the simulators and ITS are now being offered by AVESTAR.

FCS has been instrumental in the development of the IGCC simulator, supporting NETL and West Virginia University in the procurement and testing of the simulator and ITS over the last three years. FCS developed training material to support the courses offered by AVESTAR. FCS also provides experienced instructors to deliver effective simulator training and maximize technology transfer to trainees.

Click on the link below to learn more about AVESTAR and the courses offered.