Mulberry Cogeneration, Owned by Northern Star Generation Services. Operated by CAMS
115-MW, dual-fuel, 7EA (DLN1)-powered 1 × 1 cogeneration plant located in Bartow, Fla. Power is exported to the local utility; steam to industrial facilities
Plant manager: Allen Czerkiewicz
Wireless camera keeps extra set of eyes on plant equipment as necessary
Challenge. In any fast-paced O&M environment, there are times when certain pieces of equipment require additional, temporary, periodic observation—such as valves, exposed tank levels, pumps and motors, or even areas of the plant grounds.
Generally, this function is performed by roving operators who must break away from their rounds to travel to the area requiring observation. This can be a challenge, especially if the item requiring enhanced monitoring is located on top of the HRSG or in some other hard-to-access location. It can be exhausting for the staff and only allows observation for as long as the operator can remain at the scene.
Solution. Most sites now have comprehensive security-camera systems. Mulberry acquired a simple wireless camera that can be positioned at whatever location requires enhanced monitoring (photos), with the wireless receiver plugged into the security-camera system on an unused channel. This offers the CRO a live look at the area of concern while he or she remains in the control room. The display can be viewed like any other camera on the system.
An added benefit is that the camera also records, allowing staff to look back on any event that occurred. After the temporary monitoring assignment is completed, the camera can be picked up and brought inside or moved to another location.
Results. The camera has been used extensively since it was purchased. Improvements have been to affix a magnet to the camera base, as well as to purchase a set of attachments that allow the camera to be installed practically anywhere—from round railings to flat metal surfaces. The camera and receiver are powered from 110-V ac outlets, although a battery-powered inverter can be used in remote locations.
Project participants:
Allen Czerkiewicz, plant manager
Jason Leverette, operations manager
Jason Wolfe, operations manager
Joe Shaffer, maintenance manager
Lee Bland, maintenance manager
