⚙️ Start-up Sequence of a Power Plant – Step by Step Starting up a power plant is not about “pushing a button.” It’s a carefully sequenced process, with every step preparing the system for safe and stable operation. Here’s a simplified breakdown of the Gas Turbine Plant start-up sequence – one of the most widely used systems in power generation. --- 🔄 1. Pre-start Checks Before anything moves: Verify lube oil, fuel, air, and cooling systems are ready. Clear any alarms, interlocks, or trip signals. Check instrumentation, temperatures, and pressures. --- 💨 2. Purge Cycle Pressurized air is blown through the combustion chamber. Purpose: Remove any residual fuel/flammable gases. Safety-critical to prevent explosions on ignition. --- 🔥 3. Ignition Sequence Fuel injection starts. Igniter sparks ignite the fuel-air mix. Combustion begins, and turbine starts to rotate. --- ⚙️ 4. Acceleration & Warm-up Turbine ramps up gradually to rated speed. Bearings, oils, and thermal components begin warming. Key parameters monitored: RPM, exhaust temperature, vibration. --- ⚡ 5. Synchronization to the Grid Generator output matched with grid voltage, frequency, and phase sequence. Using Synchroscope or Auto-Sync system. Once aligned, breaker closes and unit connects to the grid. --- 📈 6. Load Application Generator begins supplying power. Load is added step-by-step (25% → 50% → full load). Stability is confirmed at each stage before ramping up. --- ✅ 7. Steady-State Operation Generator runs at full load. All systems are continuously monitored and controlled via DCS or SCADA. Performance KPIs tracked (efficiency, emissions, temperatures, etc.) --- 🧠 Final Thought: > Power plant start-up is a highly coordinated operation. Every stage builds on the previous, and every decision can impact the reliability and safety of the entire grid. Have you ever been part of a full start-up? What’s the most challenging part in your opinion? ---