Thermal Performance Improvement at Anadolu CCPP

The Challenge

The Anadolu Combined Cycle Power Plant, an 853 MW facility based in Kırıkkale, was delivered by GAMA Power Systems and GE Energy as a joint consortium. The plant features 2 GE 9FB gas turbines, 1 GE steam turbine, 2 Doosan HRSGs, and an SPG Air-Cooled Condenser. Commissioned in December 2016 after a 36-month project duration, the plant generates approximately 6,300 GWh annually—contributing around 2.5% of Turkey’s total electricity consumption and nearly 50% of Ankara’s demand. 

Despite its success, the site’s semi-arid climate and wind speeds reaching over 20 m/s created significant operational issues. Originally designed for 3 m/s wind speed, the ACC became unstable under extreme conditions, causing back pressure spikes and forcing gas turbine load reductions. Strong crosswinds from the south-west disrupted normal airflow patterns across the ACC, triggering resonance and vibration in fan blades, and leading to occasional turbine trips. 

The Solution

To address this, Galebreaker conducted a detailed Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) analysis, assessing plant layout and wind patterns. The study identified the most effective configuration for mitigating wind-induced performance losses and predicted a 13.5% improvement in thermal performance. 

GAMA Energie proceeded to purchase 1,436 m² of Perimeter Screens and 2,850 m² of Cruciform Screens, which were custom-manufactured and delivered to site. Galebreaker’s Installation Supervisor, Matt King, personally oversaw the successful installation from start to finish. 

The Benefits

The Galebreaker Wind Screens proved a huge success for GAMA Energie. The Perimeter Screens were a great solution to stop the effects of wind gusts and wind shear which caused all the mechanical and vibration problems on the Anadolu ACC fans. In addition, careful placement of the Cruciform Screens gave the plant an uplift in more stable air towards the fans, improving mass air flow rate and thermal efficiency. 

“As someone with first hand experience in installing windscreens on ACC systems, I can attest to the remarkable benefits they offer. Installing windscreens not only improves the thermal performance of the ACC but also translates into tangible financial gains for the Plant Operator. 
In my previous roles, I’ve witnessed how the installation of windscreens drastically reduced losses, improved power generation, and enhanced the overall reliability of the Plant” 

— Tanju Oral, Plant Manager at GAMA Enerji 

Conclusion

Since the installation, ICAN has operated reliably through the summer months—even during peak wind conditions. Fan and steam turbine trips due to back pressure spikes have been eliminated, and the ACC system now performs with enhanced stability and efficiency. 

“The installation of Galebreaker’s wind screens has had a remarkable impact on our plant’s reliability. We’ve seen significant improvements in back pressure control and a total reduction in fan trips. It’s a relief knowing that the risk of turbine trips has been practically eliminated.” 
— Ms. Damla Sanli, Senior Engineer, ICAN CCGT Plant