Cost-benefit evaluation of different low NOx combustors of natural gas boilers in Beijing

Abstract

This study focuses on establishing a cost-benefit evaluation model of low NOx combustion technology and the environmental benefits and economic benefits evaluation of technology operation were carried out as well. Results showed that: (1) The operation cost per unit calorific supply of the low NOx combustor with larger capacity (14 MW) boilers was 1.5-2.1 yuan/GJ, which was 22.3% to 26.2% as much as that of boilers with smaller capacity (0.7 MW). Compared with scattered boilers with smaller capacity, it is more economical to use boilers with larger capacity for centralized heating. (2) The lower the NOx emission concentration was, the greater the NOx emission reduction was. Furthermore, the lower the NOx emission benefits of low NOx combustor per unit calorific supply was, the greater the economic benefit of NOx reduction per unit calorific supply was. Based on the environmental and economic benefits analysis, the lean premixed combustor is recommended for natural gas boilers with capacity of 7 MW and below, and flue gas recirculation combustor (FGR-30) could be selected for natural gas boilers with capacity above 7 MW to achieve the NOx retrofits requirements of 30 mg/m3 or 80 mg/m3 .