Drax opts for Capula again

Capula, part of the Imtech Group, has been awarded a multi- million pound contract from Drax Power to replace the control systems on three of its 660 MW biomass (previously coal) fired power generating units.

The project will see Capula replace the core process control systems responsible for the plant’s key functions, including combustion and temperature control, and the feedwater, turbine, generator and ancillary plant areas on units 1, 2 and 3.

For this project, Capula will replace obsolete APACS equipment with modern Schneider based control technologies as well as undertake the conversion and testing of the control system software. The new fully integrated control system architecture will be future-proofed and fully supportable, allowing Drax to continue operating efficiently and reliably throughout the life of the plant. Additionally, Capula engineers will aim to seamlessly integrate two other control system projects that are being delivered simultaneously on unit 1.

Capula originally installed the control systems on each of the three generating units nearly 20 years ago and since then has performed many modifications and enhancements to meet the evolving needs of the business, including the conversion of the units from coal to biomass renewable fuels.

“Capula is well placed to deliver this significant project as we have installed the majority of control systems at Drax and consistently ensure the prompt return to service of our client’s most valuable assets” said Mark Hardy, Capula’s managing director.