Another alternative often considered for power augmentation and/or to simply minimize the impact of ambient temperature effects is the use of inlet air chillers. Depending upon power plant economics—in conjunction with ambient temperature and plant load profiles—chillers can afford substantial economic value. This alternative cools the incoming air, thus increasing the output relative to the gain available with an evaporative cooler. Frequently, the energy for cooling can be supplied by a mechanical or absorption refrigeration system that receives its steam from a low-pressure section in the gas turbine heat recovery steam generator (HRSG). For the diluent-injected LM6000, the normal decrease in power output at ambient temperatures less than about 50°F (10°C).
