Iron Range Engineering

Minnesota Power Visit

Seven Iron Range Engineering students visited the Minnesota Power Boswell Energy Center located in Cohasset, MN to complete a deep learning activity for thermodynamics. Ron Ulseth led the group on a tour through Unit 4 to track the entire thermodynamic process. The tour consisted of locating the condensers and following the condensate pipe through the different feedwater heaters located throughout the plant. After tracing the line through many floors the line returns to the top of the boiler on the 17th floor. The fireball is created by burning pulverized coal to heat the water to a saturated vapor. The vapor is then superheated and then proceeds to the high-pressure turbine. Upon leaving the high-pressure turbine, the vapor is reheated again and proceeds through the rest of the turbines. The vapor continues back to the condenser to complete the cycle. We were able to learn many different aspects that involved in a real power plant's thermodynamic process. We are thankful for the opportunity to tour Minnesota Power to receive a greater insight into thermodynamics.

Written by: Nate Quinn and Danielle Goebel