Abstract:

The paper deals with the availability optimization for Coal Handling System of a National Thermal Power Corporation (N.T.P.C.) Plant, using Genetic Algorithm (G.A.). Mathematical formulation is carried out using probabilistic approach and Markov birth – death process is used to develop the Chapman-Kolmogorov difference differential equations. These equations are further solved recursively in order to derive the Steady State Availability expression. The optimal values of availability of coal handling system have been evaluated using Matlab G.A. tool. The steady state availability obtained from Markov analysis is also compared with the optimal availability calculated through G.A.