Need Long Term Reliability? We’ve Got You Covered

In the scorching Mojave Desert, maximizing output from gas turbines is an ongoing consideration. This was certainly the case for Borax, a Rio Tinto Group mining company in Boron, California. They operate a Siemens/Westinghouse 251B-10 gas turbine to generate electricity, with the potential to sell excess power to Southern California Edison.

Recognizing the need for increased output, Borax focused on enhancing their existing evaporative cooler, a system designed to cool the inlet air entering the gas turbine. Upgrading the evaporative cooler wasn’t enough – they opted for a fogging system, a more effective technology for their hot, dry environment. This fog system proved highly successful, achieving a 10°F reduction in inlet air temperature.

“This decrease in temperature translates to a significant 1MW boost in power output from the gas turbine,” explained a U.S. Borax Utilities Engineer. “The additional power generated easily pays for the fogging system within a year of operation.”

Following up with the engineer 15 years later revealed the system’s continued success, delivering a reliable and long-term solution for Borax’s power generation needs.