VGB-S-002-03-2016-12-EN (Public License)

VGB-Standard
Technical and Commercial

Key Indicators for Power Plants
VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
(former VGB-RV 808)
Publisher:
VGB PowerTech e.V.
Publishing house:
VGB PowerTech Service GmbH
Verlag technisch-wissenschaftlicher Schriften
Deilbachtal 173, 45257 Essen, Germany
Phone: +49 201 8128-200

Fax: +49 201 8128-302
e-mail: mark@vgb.org
ISBN 978-3-86875-934-1 (eBook)
VGB PowerTech - Public License Document - © 2017
All rights reserved. VGB PowerTech.
www.vgb.org
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

Public License Document
Public License Document

Freie Lizenz
Network access allowed

Einstellen in Netzwerke erlaubt
Copying and distribution allowed

Kopie und Weitergabe erlaubt
All other rights reserved.

Alle weiteren Rechte vorbehalten.
----------
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
Copyright
VGB-Standards, hereafter referred to as “work”, including all articles and images, are
protected by international copyright. VGB PowerTech owns and controls the copy-
right.
The term “work” covers the publication at hand as printed hard copy and as digital-
ised version. The copyright covers the entire work and parts of it.
Any kind of use beyond the limits of copyright is prohibited without the prior written
consent of VGB PowerTech. Any unauthorised reproduction, translation, digitalisation
and modification will constitute an infringement of copyright.
Disclaimer
VGB-Standards are recommendations, the application of which is optional. VGB-
Standards represent the state of the art at the time of publication. No claim regarding
its completeness and correctness is made as a matter of principle.
Application of VGB-Standards is carried out at the user's own responsibility and risk.
VGB PowerTech accepts no legal liability in the event of any claim relating to or re-
sulting from the application of VGB-Standards.
Treatment of proposing amendments

Amendments can be sent to the e-mail address vgb.standard@vgb.org. The subject
line should contain the exact specification of the relevant document in order to clearly
assign the e-mail content to the appropriate VGB-Standard.
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
List of changes
VGB Standard Date of change Chapter Description
VGB-RV 808 March 2008 Original
Title New
Preface New
Chapter 1.1. Figure 1 updated
Chapter 2.4 Figure 7 to 10 included
Chapter 15.1 Gross-Net values
Chapter 17 EMS 1: extended by D21-D26

VGB-S-002-03-
August 2016
2016-08-EN
Chapter 17 EMS 4/1: extended by M
Chapter 17.2 ff KKS/RDS-PP
Tables removed (data sheet

Chapter 17.3
examples ‘reporting to VGB’)
Tables removed (data sheet
Chapter 17.3
examples ‘reporting to VGB’)
Chapter 19 Chapter included
Chapter 20 Chapter included

>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
Preface
This VGB-Standard allows the user to make a technical and economic assessment of
power plants. In addition, the effect of price effects and the legal requirements on the
power plant operation can be analyzed using the VGB-Standard. In detail, the user
receives analysis options in the assessment of power plant processes, the assess-
ment of plant operation and the determination of economic success.
The operation of power plants or the utilization of different technologies in energy
conversion depends on a number of restrictions, in the competitive environment, pri-
marily on the costs as well as on the specific political framework in the electricity
markets.
With the shown evaluation criteria for example the efficiency, availability and reliabil-
ity of the individual technologies can be determined, compared with one another and
determine the own position of the power plant. This results in the possibility to influ-
ence its own competitive position.
On the basis of this knowledge a revision of the definitions and indicators in the pro-
ject group “Definitions and Evaluations” took place, which is summarized in this VGB-
Standard.
With the definitions and rules contained in this VGB-Standard, different considera-
tions can be made in the international environment. Examples which may be men-
tioned are:
 Commercialization and optimizing the application of power plant capacities (inclu-
sive of system services)
 Comparative evaluation of cost-optimized fuel application at minimum CO2 emis-
sions
 Formulation of targets and goals
 Implementation of benchmarking comparison (national or international)
 Support for transparency processes
 Provision of parameters and indicators for public relations etc.

The VGB-Standard 002-03-2016-08-EN “Technical and Commercial Indicators of
Power Plants” is continuously being updated and adopted to current developments. It
can be ordered via the internet www.vgb.org
Essen, in August 2016
VGB PowerTech e.V.
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
Authors
This VGB-Standard was created by the VGB project group “Definitions and Evalua-
tions” Members of the project group:
Cord Bredthauer, Uniper Kraftwerke GmbH
Uwe Dorn, LEAG Lausitz Energie Kraftwerke AG
Henrik Moller Jorgensen, Fjernvarme Fyn A/S
Ralf Kirsch, Vattenfall Europe Generation AG
Franz-Peter Laube, PreussenElektra GmbH
Jean-Francois Lehougre, EDF-DPIT
Stefan Prost, VGB PowerTech e.V.
Dr. Jörn Rassow, EnBW Energie Baden-Württemberg AG
Dr. Ralf Uttich, RWE Generation SE
1st Edition 1970
2nd Edition 1973
3rd Edition 1980
4th Edition 1987
4th Edition 1991 (English)

5th Edition 1992
6th Edition 1999
7th Edition 2008
8th Edition 2016
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
Content
1 Indicators ................................................................................................ 18

1.1 Availability: Perception and Definition ....................................................... 18
1.1.1 Availability and utilization .......................................................................... 20
1.1.2 Classification of the Unavailability (UA) .................................................... 22
1.2 Availability indicators ................................................................................ 24
1.2.1 Time availablility (base) ............................................................................ 24
1.2.2 Time availiability during peak times .......................................................... 24
1.2.3 Energy availability ..................................................................................... 25
1.2.4 Market-assessed availability ..................................................................... 25
1.2.5 Time UA Base/peak .................................................................................. 26
1.2.6 Energy UA Base/peak Peak ..................................................................... 26
1.3 Reliability and dispatchability indicators.................................................... 27
1.3.1 Time reliability ........................................................................................... 27
1.3.2 Energy reliability ....................................................................................... 27
1.3.3 Start-up reliability ...................................................................................... 28
1.3.4 Market-assessed supply reliability ............................................................ 28
1.3.5 Dispatch reliability ..................................................................................... 29
1.3.6 Schedule compliance................................................................................ 30
1.3.7 Dispatchability .......................................................................................... 30
1.3.8 Market-assessed dispatchability ............................................................... 31
1.3.9 Unplanned Automatic Grid Separation UAGS7 ........................................ 32
1.4 Definition and utilization ............................................................................ 33
1.4.1 Time ulilization .......................................................................................... 33
1.4.2 Energy ulitization ...................................................................................... 34
1.4.3 Market-assessed utilization ...................................................................... 35
1.5 Failure rate ............................................................................................... 36

1.5.1 Time failure rate ........................................................................................ 36
1.5.2 Energy failure rate .................................................................................... 36
1.5.3 Dispatching (energy) failure rate ............................................................... 37
1.6 Other indicators ........................................................................................ 38
1.6.1 CHP indicator............................................................................................ 38
1.6.2 Greenhouse-gas indicator ........................................................................ 38
1.7 Overview about terms and basic parameters ........................................... 39
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
2 Definitions ............................................................................................... 41

2.1 Hierarchy and relation of definitions.......................................................... 41
2.2 Hierarchy and relation of definitions.......................................................... 42
2.3 Time-related terms.................................................................................... 43
2.3.1 Begin of data recording............................................................................. 44
2.3.2 End of data recording ............................................................................... 44
2.3.3 Reference period ...................................................................................... 44
2.3.4 Peak times reference period ..................................................................... 44
2.3.5 Available time/Available time during peak-times ....................................... 44
2.3.6 Operating time .......................................................................................... 45
2.3.7 Available time not in operation .................................................................. 45
2.3.7.1 Stand-by time ........................................................................................... 45
2.3.7.2 Available not dispatchable time (external influence time) ......................... 45
2.3.8 Unavailable time (UA-time) ....................................................................... 46
2.3.8.1 Planned UA-time....................................................................................... 46
2.3.8.2 Unplanned UA-time .................................................................................. 46
2.3.8.3 Postponable unplanned UA-time .............................................................. 46
2.3.8.4 Not postponable unplanned UA-time ........................................................ 46
2.4 Capacity-related terms .............................................................................. 47
2.4.1 Nominal capacity ...................................................................................... 48
2.4.2 Available capacity ..................................................................................... 50
2.4.3 Dispatchable capacity ............................................................................... 50
2.4.4 Capacity generated................................................................................... 50
2.4.4.1 Gross-(generated-) capacity ..................................................................... 50
2.4.4.2 Net-(generated-) capacity ......................................................................... 51
2.4.4.3 Auxiliary power capacity ........................................................................... 51
2.4.5 Schedule capacity..................................................................................... 51

2.4.6 Available unproducible capacity................................................................ 51
2.4.6.1 Stand-by capacity ..................................................................................... 51
2.4.6.2 Available unproducible capacity (external influences) .............................. 52
2.4.7 Unavailable capacity (UA-capacity) .......................................................... 52
2.5 Energy-related terms ................................................................................ 58
2.5.1 Nominal energy......................................................................................... 59
2.5.2 Nominal energy during peak times ........................................................... 59
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
2.5.3 Available energy ....................................................................................... 59

2.5.4 Available energy during peak times .......................................................... 59
2.5.5 Dispatchable energy ................................................................................. 59
2.5.6 Generated energy ..................................................................................... 59
2.5.7 Schedule energy ....................................................................................... 59
2.5.8 Available energy not generated ................................................................ 60
2.5.8.1 Stand-by energy ....................................................................................... 60
2.5.8.2 Available unproducible energy (external influ-ence energy) ..................... 60
2.5.9 Unvailable energy (UA-energy)................................................................. 60
2.5.9.1 Planned UA-energy .................................................................................. 61
2.5.9.2 Unplanned UA-energy .............................................................................. 61
2.5.9.3 Unplanned postponable UA-energy .......................................................... 61
2.5.9.4 Unplanned not postponable UA-energy .................................................... 61
3 Plant (Unit) determination ...................................................................... 63
4 Principles and hierarchy of events ....................................................... 65
5 Capacity fluctuations by different temperatures of cooling water and

air ............................................................................................................. 68
6 Excess energy......................................................................................... 68
7 Market assessed supply reliability ........................................................ 68
8 Exceeding and falling below planned unavailabilities ........................ 69

8.1 General ..................................................................................................... 69
8.2 Extension .................................................................................................. 69
9 Retrofitting measures (Retrofit)............................................................. 70
10 External influences ................................................................................. 70

10.1 Capacity restrictions by external influences .............................................. 70

10.1.1 Fuel........................................................................................................... 71
10.1.2 Mothballing of the plant............................................................................. 71
10.1.3 Climate ..................................................................................................... 72
10.1.4 Grid related restrictions ............................................................................. 72
10.1.5 Shortage of personnel .............................................................................. 72
10.1.6 Other matters ............................................................................................ 73
11 Combined heat and power generating plants (CHP) ........................... 73
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
11.1 Nominal capacity and nominal energy from co-generation plants............. 77
11.2 Equivalent electrical energy through thermal generation .......................... 77
11.3 Energy availability ..................................................................................... 78
11.4 Energy utilization ...................................................................................... 78
12 Successful start-up rate ......................................................................... 79
13 Special regulations ................................................................................. 80

13.1 Measures in available plants .................................................................... 80
13.2 Failure of flue gas cleaning ....................................................................... 80
13.3 Nuclear power plants ................................................................................ 80
13.4 Missing operating permit ........................................................................... 81
13.5 Advancing of planned unavailabilities ....................................................... 82
14 Data recording ........................................................................................ 83

14.1 Use of gross or net values ........................................................................ 83
15 Calculation of average values ............................................................... 83

15.1 Fundamentals ........................................................................................... 83
15.2 Average value for several plants for one calendar year or one operating
year........................................................................................................... 84
15.2.1 Average energy availability kWmittel for I Plants .......................................... 85
15.2.2 Average operating time tBmittel for I Plant ................................................... 85
15.2.3 Average utilization duration taNmittel for I plant ........................................... 85
15.3 Average value for several plants for several calendar years or several
operating years ......................................................................................... 86
15.3.1 Average energy availability kWmittel for I plants and J calendar years or M
operating years: ........................................................................................ 87
15.4 Classification and comparison of units...................................................... 88
16 Analysis of the unavailability of thermal power plants ....................... 90

16.1 History of VGB guideline 140 .................................................................... 90
16.2 Unavailability analysis from thermal power plants .................................... 90
16.3 Power plant classification system (KKS) and reference designation system
for power plants (RDS-PP) ....................................................................... 91
16.4 Range of determination ............................................................................ 93
16.5 Recording of event data............................................................................ 95
16.6 Evaluation ............................................................................................... 101
10
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
17 Power plant information system KISSY .............................................. 104

17.1 KISSY access and data input ................................................................. 104
17.2 Evaluations and reports .......................................................................... 106
18 Structure of event characteristic key system EMS and overview .... 109
18.1 Application recommendations ................................................................. 111
18.2 Event characteristic key 1 „Type of event“ .............................................. 112
18.3 Event characteristic key 2 „Operating status before event“ .................... 113
18.4 Event characteristic key 3 „Operating status after event“ ....................... 114
18.5 Event characteristic key 4 „Impact on unit“ ............................................. 116
18.6 Event characteristic key 5 „Outage impact on the system/components“. 118
18.7 Event characteristic key 6 „Cause“ ......................................................... 119
18.8 Event characteristic key 7 „Damage mechanism“ ................................... 123
18.9 Event characteristic key 8 „Damage“ ...................................................... 127
18.10 Event characteristic key 9 „recognition of failure“ ................................... 129
18.11 Event characteristic key 10 „Maintenance form“ ..................................... 132
18.12 Event characteristic key 11 „Measures against recurrence“ ................... 133
18.13 Event characteristic key 12 „Urgency of measures“................................ 135
19 Use of the technical assessment of energy conversion plants for the
electricity market and grid safety ........................................................ 136
20 Examples of use ................................................................................... 138

20.1 Example 1: „Unplanned not available laod reduction“............................. 138
20.2 Example 2: „Blackout“............................................................................. 139
20.3 Example 3: „Unplanned not available block unavailability“ ..................... 140
20.4 Example 4: „Blackout after faulty operation“ ........................................... 141
20.5 Example 5: „BdEW“ ................................................................................ 142
20.6 Example 6: „Capacity terms of technical ressource / BdEW“ .................. 143

20.7 Example 7: „Capacity terms Power Plant Object / PPO of hydro pumped
storage power plant / BdEW“ .................................................................. 144
11
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
General Remarks
Apart from investment cost, fuel and running cost also determine the economic suc-
cess of power plant operation. In this respect availability is playing a very important
part. It is an indicator for assessing the technical and economic potential and capaci-
ty as well as the reliability of a plant and reflecting the advances in technology and
engineering.
The guideline at hand contains the terms, definitions, technical profile as well as re-
cording and calculations guides necessary for determining availability. These apply
mainly to thermal power plants for electricity generation but can also be used for
plants for combined heat and power generation. Relevant economic parameters im-
portant for marketing the final product, i.e. the converted energy, are also defined.
In general it is possible to gain an overview about the technical and economical ca-
pacity of a generation unit as well as data about the quality of operation and mainte-
nance.
Indicators are basically used for the technical and economical comparison (bench-
marking). Mostly dimensionless parameters are applied that were derived from terms
related to dimensions.
The consequent consideration of the definitions and rules gathered in this guideline
are advantageous in the following internal and industry-wide applications:
 Support
 When planning, preparing and optimizing maintenance
 When planning fuel application
 When optimizing the power plant portfolio and power plant application
 When making an economic analysis
 Determination of statistically confirmed standards and comparative values on
the basis of a large number of plants for the qualitatively and economic as-
sessment and evaluation of power plants and systems in view of e.g. concep-
tion, construction, quality of design and construction and operational approval.

 Presentation and documentation of operating results
 Internal and external comparison of e.g. plant groups and types,
capacity ranges, power plant sites
 Analytical assessment of the level and timely development of availability
 Analyze of unavailability
 Provision of data and results, among others for
 Public relation activities
12
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
 Investigations and analyses

 Acquisition
In cases of international comparison it has to be assured that the country-specific

reference base (market parameters, stock exchange prices) are duly considered.
13
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
Alphabetical List of Abbreviations
Symbol Designation Chapter

DB Profit margin (= market price – production cost) 7
DB+ Profit margin, only positive otherwise null 1.4.3
eCO2 Greenhouse-gas indicator 1.6.2
ef Emission factor 1.6.2
eox Oxidation factor 1.6.2
fFP Schedule 1.3.6
Hu Lower heating value 1.6.2
kb Dispatchability 1.3.7
Kbm Market-assessed dispatchability 1.3.8
kt Time availablility (base) 1.2.1
kt Pe Time availiability during peak times 1.2.2
ktn Time UA Base/peak 1.2.5
ktn Pe Time UA Base/peak 1.2.5
kW Energy availability 1.2.3
kWm Market-assessed availability 1.2.4
kWn Energy UA Base/peak Peak 1.2.6
kWn Pe Energy UA Base/peak Peak 1.2.6
MB Fuel provided 1.6.2
nKWK CHP indicator 1.6.1
nt Time utilization 1.4.1
nW Energy utilization 1.4.2
nWm Market-assessed utilization 1.4.3
PB Capacity generated 2.4.4
PB br Gross-(generated-) capacity 2.4.4.1

PB ne Net-(generated-) capacity 2.4.4.2
PEig B Auxiliary power capacity 2.4.4.3
PFP Schedule capacity 2.4.5
pl Dispatching (energy) failure rate 1.5.3
PN Nominal capacity 2.4.1
Png Available unproducible capacity 2.4.6
Pns Available unproducible capacity (external influences) 2.4.6.2
14
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN

Pnv Unavailable capacity (UA-capacity) 2.4.7
PR Stand-by capacity 2.4.6.1
pt Time failure rate 1.5.1
Pv Available capacity 2.4.2
pv Dispatch reliability 1.3.5
pw Energy failure rate 1.5.2
rm Market-assessed supply reliability 1.3.4
se Number of successful start-ups 1.3.3
sn Number of unsuccessful start-ups 1.3.3
taN Utilization period 1.4.2
tB Operating time 2.3.6
tN Reference period 2.3.3
tN Pe Peak times reference period 2.3.4
tng Available time not in operation 2.3.7
tns Available not dispatchable time (external influence
2.3.7.2
time)
tnv Unavailable time (UA-time) 2.3.8
tnv p Planned UA-time 2.3.8.1
tnv u Unplanned UA-time 2.3.8.2
tnv ud Postponable unplanned UA-time 2.3.8.3
tnv un Not postponable unplanned UA-time 2.3.8.4
tR Stand-by time 2.3.7.1
tv Available time/Available time during peak-times 2.3.5
tv Pe Available time/Available time during peak-times 2.3.5
UAGS Unplanned Automatic Grid Separation UAGS7 1.3.9
WB Generated energy 2.5.6

Wb Dispatchable energy 2.5.5
WFP Schedule energy 2.5.7
WN Nominal energy 2.5.1
WN Pe Nominal energy during peak times 2.5.2
Wne KWK Produced CHP energy 1.6.1
Wng Available energy not generated 2.5.8
WnR Negative balancing energy 1.4.2
15
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN

Wns Available unproducible energy (external influ-ence en-
2.5.8.2
ergy)
Wnv Unavailable energy (UA-energy) 2.5.9
Wnv p Planned UA-energy 2.5.9.1
Wnv u Unplanned UA-energy 2.5.9.2
Wnv ud Unplanned postponable UA-energy 2.5.9.3
Wnv un Unplanned not postponable UA-energy 2.5.9.4
WR Stand-by energy 2.5.8.1
wt Time reliability 1.3.1
Wv Available energy 2.5.3
wv Energy reliabilityGenerated energy 1.3.2
Wv Pe Available energy during peak times 2.5.4
z Start-up reliability 1.3.3
16
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
Technical and Commercial Indicators for

Power Plants
– Fundamentals and Determination –
17
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
1 Indicators
The most obvious performance indicator for a unit is the technical availability. For the
load dispatcher who transfers and deals the energy to the different markets, the reli-
ability of the plant is an important indicator for him. If the reliability of a power plant is
reduced, all the causes of this unavailability must be explained and estimated. The
outcome of this follows to other definitions of indicators like the utilization i.e. the ex-
ploitability of a power plant. For special applications like for example co-generation
plant or environmental points of view, some other indicators were developed in order
to bring lot of important information about the operational processes. Those have
been defined below.
1.1 Availability: Perception and Definition

The different perceptions of indicators for the unit operator and the load dispatcher
are shown by the Figure 1. The assignments of the colours to the definitions made
are effective for the whole volume. All the following terms and definitions refer both to
the previous technical perception (Market: Base) and to the now liberalised electricity
market perception (Peak, Market assessed).
18
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
Figure 1: Analysis level unavailability, availability, dispatchability (reference level net).
19
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
1.1.1 Availability and utilization

The availability characterizes the ability of a unit or of a unit part to convert energy
independent of the actual operation. Events besides the sphere of influence of the
plant management, which result in a capacity delimitation by external influences or
due to a lack of load, do not reduce the availability.
The most obvious performance indicator is the energy availability. It is a measure for
the energy which can be generated by a plant due to its technical and operational
state. In connection with the energy utilization it is the extensive performance indica-
tor for the overall evaluation of a plant. Additionally it facilitates making comparative
statements on the quality of different plants.
Unlike the energy availability is the time availability a measure for the time dispatch-
ability of a plant and that is independent of the size of the particularly available ca-
pacity. If a plant can only be operated at reduced capacity because of unavailability,
it is with regard to time fully available. Therefore the numerical value of the time
availability is normally larger than the energy availability.
20
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
The time availability is easy to determine and is suitable to evaluate plants or plant
parts comparatively, e.g. waste incineration plants, for which it is not possible to de-
termine energy-related indicators.
With the example of an idealized operational diagram, the calculation of energy
availability, energy utilization and time availability is shown in Figure 2. At the same
time it represents the basic differences in the performance indicators.
Figure 2: Operating diagram and performance indicators.
21
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
The actual dispatchable capacity, i.e. the exploitability of the plant (see
VGB-S-002-01 and Chapter 1.3.7) is important for the load dispatcher.
The difference between availability and exploitability is that part of capacity which
cannot be utilised because of external influences.
Moreover we can distinguish:
 The utilization is a measure for the real utilization of a plant or a plant part.
 The failure rate is of special use for the planning of operation.
 The start-up reliability is important to evaluate units with frequent start-ups, e.g.
gas turbines.
1.1.2 Classification of the Unavailability (UA)

The unavailability of a unit is its’ incapacity to produce electricity or heat. The various
causes can include: a unit internal problem, which can be solved by maintenance -
(repair, replacement, etc.). Unavailability cannot be influenced by the operational
management but stays under the control of plant management.
External influences are by definition out of the control of the plant management and
are not considered as unavailability but as a part of undispatchability.
22
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
Unavailabilities are distinguished in relation to the temporal urgency for a shutdown

and the derating respectively (Figure 3).
Figure 3: Classification of unavailability.
The beginning and duration of the unavailability have to be de-

planned unavailability
termined more than 4 weeks before commencement.
unplanned unavailability The beginning of unavailability cannot be postponed or only up to

4 weeks.
postponable The beginning of unavailability can be postponed more than 12

hours up to 4 weeks.
not postponable The beginning of unavailability cannot be postponed or only up to

12 hours.
23
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
1.2 Availability indicators
Designation Symbol/Formula Definition Application
1.2.1 t v t N  t nv Time availability is the quotient of It is independent of the capacity

Time availablility kt   available time and nominal time available in a particular case.
tN tN
(base) (calendar time). Where required, further differentia-
tion can be achieved using
Available time is the difference
planned and unplanned unavaila-
between nominal time and una-
ble times.
vailable time.
1.2.2 t v Pe tN Pe  t nv Pe Time availability at peak times is Time availability at peak times is the
Time availiability k t Pe   quotient of available time during
tN Pe tN Pe the quotient of available time dur-
during peak times peak times and the number of peak
ing peak times and the number of
hours in nominal time.
peak hours in nominal time.
Available time during peak times is
Available time during peak times is
the difference between the number

the difference between the number
of peak hours in nominal time and
of peak hours in nominal time and
the unavailable time during peak
the unavailable time during peak
times. Time availability at peak
times.
times is a measure of a plant's de-
ployability at peak times. It is par-
ticularly suited as a measure for
plants that are to be deployable
mainly in the mid-merit and peak
load.
24
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
1.2.3 Wv W  Wnv Energy availability is the quotient Energy availability is a measure of

kw   N
Energy availability WN PN t N of available energy and nominal the energy that a plant can pro-
energy. duce in view of its technical and
Available energy is the difference operational condition. Unlike time
availability, it also takes account of
between nominal energy and una-
vailable energy. Nominal energy is partial unavailabilities.
the product of nominal capacity
and nominal time (calendar time).
1.2.4
  W  W   DB 
N,i nv ,i i
Market-assessed availability is the Market-assessed availability indi-
Market-assessed k Wm  i1..N quotient of cates the ability of a plant or part of
availability  W  DB 
i1...N
N,i i
available energy weighted with a a plant to convert energy prof-
itably, irrespective of actual de-
positive profit margin
ployment. Events outside the

nominal energy weighted with a plant's sphere of influence that
positive profit margin result in capacity restrictions due to
 each relative to the time span external influences or lack of de-
considered mand do not reduce the market-
assessed availability.
The parameter corresponds to en-
ergy availability weighted with posi-
tive profit margins.
25
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
1.2.5 k tn  1  k t Time unavailability (time UA) is Time UA is a measure of a plant's

Time UA Base/peak the complement of time availability total temporal deployability in view
k tn Pe  1  k t Pe  at 100 %. of internal problems which cannot
be influenced by the management.
1.2.6
Energy unavailability (energy UA) Energy UA is a measure of lost
Energy UA k Wn  1  k W
 
is the complement of energy avail- energy due to internal problems
Base/peak Peak k Wn Pe  1  k W Pe ability at 100 %. which cannot be influenced by the
management.
26
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
1.3 Reliability and dispatchability indicators
1.3.1 tB Time reliability is the quotient of Reliability is a synonym for the

Time reliability wt  operating time and the sum of op- dependability of a plant as regards
t B  t nv un
erating time and unplanned not unplanned (not postponable)
postponable UA time. events.
1.3.2 WB Energy reliability – unplanned (to- Reliability – unplanned (total) is a

Energy reliability wv  tal) is the quotient of generated synonym for the dependability of
WB  Wnv u
– unplanned (total) energy and the sum of generated plants as regards unplanned
energy and unplanned (total) UA events.
energy.
– unplanned, not Energy reliability – unplanned not Reliability – unplanned not post-
WB
postponable wv  postponable is the quotient of gen- ponable is a synonym for the de-
WB  Wnv un erated energy and the sum of gen- pendability of plants as regards
erated energy and unplanned not unplanned events.
postponable UA energy.
27
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
1.3.3 se Start-up reliability is the quotient of Start-up reliability is used to assess

Start-up reliability z the number of successful start-ups plants and units whose lifetime also
s e  sn
(se) and the sum of successful (se) depends largely on the number of
and unsuccessful start-ups (sn) start-ups, e.g. gas turbines or emer-
(see Chapter 12). gency generating sets.
Market-assessed supply reliability Supply reliability is a measure of a

1.3.4 ( WB i - WFpi  DBi )
rm  1  is the quotient of the amount, plant's eco-nomic deployability on
Market-assessed ( WFpi  DBi ) weighted with the profit margin, of the wholesale market. Going be-
supply reliability
the difference between generated yond the technical deployability, it
energy and the schedule energy as-sesses the economic benefit of
schedule energy weighted with the any deployment.
profit margin, each relative to the
period observed. The initial param-
eters are established by analogy
with price developments, viz. by the

hour.
28
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
1.3.5 WB Dispatch reliability – unplanned Dispatch reliability – unplanned

pv 
Dispatch reliability WB  W nv u  W ns (total) is the quotient of generated (total) is a measure of a plant's reli-
energy and the sum of generated ability outside planned unavailabili-
– unplanned (total)
energy, unplanned UA energy and ties.
external-influence energy. The parameter can also be used for
peak-load plants.
– unplanned, not Dispatch reliability – unplanned not Dispatch reliability – unplanned not
WB
postponable pv  postponable is the quotient of gen- postponable is a measure of a
WB  W nv un  W ns
erated energy and the sum of gen- plant's reliability outside planned
erated energy, unplanned not post- unavailabilities.
ponable UA energy and external- The parameter can also be used for
influence energy. peak-load plants.
29
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
1.3.6 WB Schedule compliance is the quo- Schedule compliance is used for

Schedule compli- f FP  tient of generated energy and collecting and reviewing the com-
WFP
ance scheduled energy requirement to pliance of schedules in energy con-
be met by a production plant within version facilities. This indicator can
a given time period. be used to assess balancing group
1.3.7 deviations.
Dispatchability Wb W  Wnv  Wns
kb   N Dispatchability is the quotient of
WN WN
dispatchable energy and nominal
energy.
(Energy) dispatchability is a meas-
ure of the energy that a plant is able
to generate in view of its technical
and operational condition and in
view of the condition impacted by
external influences.
30
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
1.3.8  W
i 1..N
N,i  Wnv,i  Wns,i   DB  i Market-assessed dispatchability is Market-assessed dispatchability is
Market-assessed k bm  the quotient of the ability of a plant or a part of a
dispatchability W N,i  DB  i
plant to profitably convert energy in
i 1...N
dispatchable energy weighted
view of its technical and operational
with a positive profit margin and
condition and of the condition im-
nominal energy weighted with a
pacted by external influences, viz.
positive profit margin
irrespective of actual deployment.
each relative to the time span con-
The parameter corresponds to the
sidered.
energy dispatchability, weighted
with positive profit mar-gins.
Note: For a trader, the market-
assessed dispatchability is im-
portant; for a producer, it is the
market-assessed availability for
which he is responsible.
31
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
1.3.9 Count  7000 The indicator “Unplanned Au- The factor “Unplanned Automatic
UAGS 7 
Unplanned Auto- tb tomatic Grid Separation” is defined Grid Separation” reflects the im-
matic Grid Separa- as the count of un-planned auto- provement in plant safety from re-
tion UAGS7 matic grid separations (triggering of ducing the count of undesired and
the protection system), standard- un-planned thermohydraulic transi-
ized to a given operating time (e.g. ents that lead to grid separation. It
7,000 h). also indicates how well the plant is
operated and serviced.
A consideration of the count of
hours in which the plant was avail-
able to the load dispatcher is an
indicator of the efficacy of the ef-
forts to reduce UAGSs. It provides
a basis for comparing plant values
with each other and with the aver-

age values for the entire sector if
the grid separation of the various
units is standardized (e.g. 7,000 h).
32
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
1.4 Definition and utilization
1.4.1 tB Time utilization is the quotient of Time utilization is a measure of a

Time utilization nt  operating time and nominal time plant's actual temporal deployment.
tN
(calendar time). It is independent of the level of the
operating capacity concerned.
33
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
1.4.2 WB WB Energy utilizationis the quotient of Energy utilization is a measure of

Energy utilization nW   generated energy and nominal the energy that a plant actually
WN PN  t N
energy. produces (plus negative balancing
energy).
Energy utilization WB  WnR WB  WnR Energy utilization with negative
nW   balancing energyis the quotient of The equivalent terms “utilization
with negative balan- WN PN  t N generated energy plus balancing duration” and ”full-load utilization
cing energy
energy and nominal energy. hours” are also frequently used:
Nominal energy is the product of WB
nominal capacity and nominal time t aN 
PN
(calendar time).
The link between energy utilization
Operating energy is the product of
and utilization period is:
operating capacity and operating
time (meter value) plus operating t aN  n W  t N
capacity and operating time for the

negative balancing energy (meter Negative balancing energy is ener-
value). gy that reduces the generated en-
ergy of the power plant when it is
used for assuring the supply of grid
services (e.g. primary, secondary,
or tertiary control, etc.)
34
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
1.4.3 W B ,i  DB i
Market-assessed utilizationis the Market-assessed utilization is a
Market-assessed n Wm  i 1 ..N
quotient of measure of the profitable energy
utilization W N,i  DB  i that a plant actually produces.
i 1 ...N  generated energy weighted with
the positive or negative profit The parameter corresponds to en-
margin and ergy utilization, weighted with profit
margins.
 nominal energy weighted with
the positive profit margin,
each relative to the time span con-
sidered.
35
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
1.5 Failure rate
1.5.1 t nv The time failure rate is the quotient The time failure rate indicates a
u
Time failure rate pt  of unplanned unavailability time plant's non-deployability outside
t B  t nv u and the sum of operating time and planned downtimes and outside
unplanned unavailability time. available non-deployment times.
1.5.2 W nv u
The energy failure rate – unplanned The energy failure rate – unplanned
Energy failure rate pw  (total) is the quotient of unplanned (total) is a measure of unproducible
W B  W nv u
(total) unavailable energy and the energy outside planned unavailabili-
sum of generated energy and un- ties and outside available, unpro-
planned (total) unavailable energy duced energy due to stand-bys and
36
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
1.5.3 W nv u The dispatching (energy) failure The dispatching (energy) failure rate
Dispatching (ener- pl  rate – unplanned (total) is the quo- – unplanned (total) is a measure of
WB  W nv u  W ns
gy) failure rate tient of unplanned (total) unavaila- the unproducible energy outside
ble energy and the sum of unplanned unavailabilities and outside
planned (total) unavailable energy, available energy. Therefor it is an
external-influence energy and gen- early-warning indicator in a risk-
erated energy. management system.
37
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
1.6 Other indicators
1.6.1 Wne KWK The CHP indicatoris the quotient of Assessment of a plant as to its CHP
CHP indicator nKWK  net produced CHP energy and net share relative to its net nominal en-
WN ne
nominal energy. ergy.
(combined heat and
power)
1.6.2 MB  Hu  ef  eox A plant's greenhouse-gas indicator This indicator gives the CO2 emis-
Greenhouse-gas eCO2  is the quotient of CO2 produced and sions in t/MWh for the generation of
WB ne
indicator net generated energy. electric energy and heat.
38
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
1.7 Overview about terms and basic parameters

It is defined: (The list is sorted in alphabetical order).
Number peak-hours within tN Pe Operating time tB

reference period
Number of successful start- se Fuel provided MB
ups
Number of unsuccessful sn Greenhouse-gas indicator eco2
start-ups
Energy failure rate pW Profit margin (= markt price – DB
production cost)
Energy utilization nW Profit margin, only positive oth- DB+
erwise null
Energy unavailability kWn = ef
Emission factor
1 - kW
Energy availability kW Produced CHP energy Wne
KWK
Energy availability during kW Pe Schedule energy WFP

peak times
Energy reliability wv Schedule capacity PFP
External influence energy Wns Schedule fFP
External influence capacity Pns Planned UA-energy Wnv p
Utilization period taN Planned UA-capacity Pnv p
Dispatchable energy Wb Planned UA-time tnv p
Dispatchability kb CHP indicator nKWK
Stand-by energy WR Dispatching failure rate pl

Stand-by capacity PR Dispatching reliability pv
Stand-by time tR Market-assessed utilization nWm
Generated energy WB Market-assessed dispatchabil- Kbm
ity
39
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
Capacity generated (gross or PB Market-assessed availability kWm

net) (br o.ne)
Nominal energy WN Unplanned (not postponable) Pnv u(n)

UA-capacity
Nominal energy during peak WN Pe Unplanned automatic grid sep- UAGS
times aration
Non dispatchable energy Wnb Lower heating value Hu
Unavailable energy (UA- Wnv Available energy Wv
energy)
Unavailable energy during Wnv Pe Available energy during peak Wv Pe
peak times times
Unavailable capacity (UA- Pnv Available energy not generated Wng
capacity)
Unavailable time tnv Available unproducible capacity Png
(UA-time)
Unavailable time during peak tnv Pe Available time not in operation tng (Pe)
times (during peak times)
Oxidation factor eox Market-assessed utilization rm
Peak times reference period tN Pe Time failure rate pt
Start-up reliability Z Time utilization nt
Unplanned postponable UA- Wnv ud Time unavailability ktn =
energy 1 - kt
Unplanned postponable UA- Pnv ud Time availability (during peak kt (Pe)
capacity times)
Unplanned postponable UA- tnv ud Time reliability wt
time
Unplanned (not postponable) Wnv u(n)
UA-energy
In order to avoid some misunderstandings, terms like availability, utilization and fail-
ure rate can be always used respectively with the added terms of time or energy.
40
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
2 Definitions
2.1 Hierarchy and relation of definitions
nominal (reference) values view

time | capacity | energy power plant operator
available unavailable
in not in unplanned planned

operation operation < 4 weeks > 4 weeks
inopera- post- not

operable ble ponable post-
(stand-by) (external < 12 h ponable
influence) > 12 h
dispatchable not dispatchable
view
dispatcher
Figure 4: Hierarchy of definitions (survey).
41
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
2.2 Hierarchy and relation of definitions
Time Indicators Capacity Indicators Energy Indicators

Nominal period Nominal capacity Nominal energy
tN PN WN
WN = PN · tN
available time available capacity available energy
tv Pv Wv
tv = tN - tnv Pv = PN - Pnv Wv = WN - Wnv
operating time operating capacity operating energy
tB PB WB
available time available capacity availalbe energy
not in operation not in operation not generated
tng Png Wng

tng = tv - tB Png = Pv - PB Wng = Wv - WB
= tR + tns = PR + Pns = WR + Wns
stand-by time stand-by capacity stand-by energy
tR PR WR
tR = tng - tns PR = Png - Pns WR = WN - Wnv - WB - Wns
available not dis-
patachable time (ex- available not dispatachable ca-
unavailable unproducible energy
ternal influence time) pacity (external influence capac-
(external influence energy (ex-
(external influence ity)
ternal influence energy)
time) (external influence capacity)
Wns = Pns · tns
Pns
tns
unavailable time unavailable capacity uavailable energy

tnv Pnv Wnv
tnv = tnv p + tnv u Pnv = Pnv p + Pnv u Wnv = Wnv p + Wnv u
planned
planned unavailable capacity planned unavailable energy
unavailable time
Pnv p Wnv p
tnv p
unplanned unplanned unplanned
unavailable time unavailable capacity unavailable energy

tnv u Pnv u Wnv u
tnv u = tnv ud + tnv un Pnv u = Pnv ud + Pnv un Wnv u = Wnv ud + Wnv un
unplanned unplanned
unplanned
postponable unavaili- postponable unavailibility capac-
postponable unavailibility energy
bility time ity
Wnv ud
tnv ud Pnv ud
not postponable un-
not postponable unplanned un- not postponable unplanned una-
planned unavailable
available capacity vailable energy
time
Pnv un Wnv un
tnv un
42
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
2.3 Time-related terms
Following time-related definitions (Figure 5) refer exclusively to the states “plant in

opera-tion” or “plant out of operation”. During the state “plant in operation” it is unim-
portant which capacity is in operation.
The reference period can be, as technical point of view, the calendar time (Base) or
can be, with a market point of view, the electricity stock exchange time reference (i. e
Peak-time reference).
tN
available unavailable
time time
tv tnv
planned
available time unplanned
unavailable
not in operation unavailable time
time
tB tng tnv p tnv u
available not
not dispatchable postpon- postpon-
stand-by
time (external able able
time
influence time)
tR tns tnv ud tuv un
Figure 5: Diagram of time-related terms.

43
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
Designation Symbol Term definition and description
2.3.1 The data recording for availability determinations

Begin of data recording
start-ups with the commissioning of the plant to
the responsibility of the operator after the end of
trial operation.
2.3.2 The data recording for availability determinations

End of data recording
ends with the decommissioning (termination) of
the plant.
2.3.3 tN The reference period is the total recording period

Reference period
without any interruption (calendar time).
2.3.4 tN Pe The peak-time reference period within the nominal

Peak times reference
time comprises all exchange-typical peak times
period
(e. g., in Germany: Monday to Friday all hours
from 08:00 a.m. 08:00 p.m.; holidays falling on
these days are normal work-days).
2.3.5 The available time is the period in which a plant

Available time/Available tv
converts energy or can convert it independent of
time during peak-times
the level of the achievable capacity.
tv = tN - tnv
tvPe The available time during peak times reduces the

time span being considered to the peak hours.
44
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
2.3.6 tB The operating time is the period in which a

Operating time plant converts energy. Connecting in parallel
is seen as the beginning of the operating
time and the separation of the generator from
the grid as the end.
tng The available time not in operation is the pe-

2.3.7
riod in which a plant is available but not in
Available time not in opera-
operation and/or cannot be operated due to
tion
tng = tv - tB
= tR + tns
2.3.7.1 tR The stand-by time is the period in which the

Stand-by time plant can be operated but will not be operat-
ed.
tR = tng - tns
2.3.7.2 tns The available dispatchable time is the period

Available not dispatchable in which the plant cannot be operated due to
time (external influence time) external influences.
45
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
2.3.8 tnv The unavailable time is the period in which the

Unavailable time plant can-not be operated for reasons, which are
(UA-time) inside the plant or which cannot be influenced by
the management.
The unvailable time is composed of a planned
and an unplanned part.
tnv = tnv p + tnv u
2.3.8.1 The planned unavailable time is the period in

Planned UA-time tnv p which a plant cannot be operated due to a shut-
down planned on a long-term basis. The begin-
ning and duration of the shutdown have to be de-
termined more than 4 weeks in advance.
2.3.8.2 The unplanned unavailable time is the period in

Unplanned UA-time tnv u which a plant cannot be operated due to an un-
planned shutdown, where as the shutdown may
not be postponed or only up to 4 weeks.
The unplanned unavailable time is divided into a
postponable and a not postponable part.
tnv u = tnv ud + tnv un
2.3.8.3 The postponable unplanned unavailable time is

Postponable unplanned tnv ud that part of unplanned unavailable time which may
UA-time be postponed from 12 hours up to 4 weeks.
2.3.8.4
tnv un The not postponable unplanned unavailable time
Not postponable un-
is that part of unplanned unavailable time which
planned UA-time
may not be postponed or only up to 12 hours.
46
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
2.4 Capacity-related terms
The fundamental reference indicator for availability determinations is the nominal ca-
pacity. The nominal capacity of a plant is based on a value which is normally set up
compulsively for the whole service life and admits load changes very restrictedly.
47
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN

The nominal capacity of a plant is the highest con-
2.4.1 PN tinuous capacity on nominal conditions, which is
Nominal capacity
reached by a new plant at commissioning time. This
value is binding for the whole service life.
Capacity changes are only permitted with essential
changes of nominal conditions and with constructive
measures in the plant.
Until the exact determination of this highest continu-
ous capacity on nominal conditions the ordered val-
ue has to be indicated as nominal capacity in ac-
cordance with the supply agreements.
If the ordered value does not clearly conform to the
real approval and operating conditions to be ex-
pected, one has to ascertain, until confirmed meas-
uring results are on hand, an average capacity value
as nominal capacity in advance. It is to be deter-
mined in such a way that additional and reduced
generations within an average year are compen-
sated (e. g. due to the cooling water temperature
curve, as is shown in Figure 6).
The final setting of the nominal capacity of a power
plant unit will be made after the commissioning of
the plant, normally after the presentation of results
from the acceptance measurements. Here it is of
special importance that the nominal conditions refer
to a year’s average value, i.e. that the seasonal in-
fluences (e.g. the inlet temperature of cooling water
and air), the electric and steam-side auxiliary con-
sumption as well as the capacity factor of the grid
are compensated during one regular year and that
ideal-typical conditions at the acceptance measure-

ment such as e.g. special steam cycles are convert-
ed into normal operating conditions.
48
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
In contrast to the maximum capacity, the nominal

capacity must not be adjusted to a temporary capac-
ity change. It is also not allowed to make a change
of the nominal capacity in the case of capacity de-
creases as a consequence of or for the avoidance of
damages. In the same way a decrease of the nomi-
nal capacity is not admissible due to ageing, wear or
soiling.
A change of the nominal capacity may be only made
− if additional investments, e. g. retrofitting
measures improving efficiency, are made with
the aim to increase the capacity of the plant,
− plant parts are definitely shut down or removed
with an intentional acceptance of capacity loss-
es,
− due to external influences (Chapter 10) the plant
is continuously, i. e. for the rest of its service life,
operated outside the design area determined in
the supply agreements,
− or the plant is only allowed to be operated with a
reduced capacity till the end of the service life
due to an authoritative direction, even if no tech-
nical defect exists.
49
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
2.4.2 Pv The available capacity is the achievable capacity

Available capacity due to the technical and operational condition of the
plant.
Pv = PN - Pnv
2.4.3 Pb The dispatchable capacity is the difference of avail-

Dispatchable capacity able capacity and external influence.
Pb = Pv - Pns
The non dispatchable capacity results in analogy to
the UA capacity.
2.4.4 The operating capacity gross or net is the capacity

PB operated at the relevant time.
Capacity generated
The operating capacity can be greater than the nom-
inal capacity, e.g. excess capacity due to good cool-
ing-water conditions (see Figure 6).
2.4.4.1
PB br The gross operating capacity of a plant is the deliv-
Gross-(generated-) ca- ered capacity at the terminals of the generator.
pacity
50
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN

2.4.4.2 The net operating capacity of a plant is the capacity
Net-(generated-) capaci- PB ne which is delivered to the supply system (transmis-
ty
sion and distribution system, consumer) less a pos-
sible obtainment of capacity in the operating time. It
results alternatively from the gross capacity reduced
by the electric auxiliary capacity during the opera-
tion.
PB ne = PB br - PEig B
2.4.4.3 The operating auxiliary capacity is that electric ca-

Auxiliary power capacity PEig B pacity which is necessary for secondary and auxilia-
ry plant units during the operation of a plant (genera-
tor connected to the grid).
2.4.5 PFP The gross or net schedule capacity of an energy

Schedule capacity conversion facility is the operating capacity that is
agreed and preset with the power plant/unit. It is
usually measured as average hourly capacity .
The available unproducible capacity is that part of

2.4.6 Png available capacity which is ready for operation but
Available unproducible
will not be used and/or cannot be used due to exter-
capacity
nal influences.
Png = Pv – PB
= PR + Pns
2.4.6.1 The stand-by capacity is the capacity beyond the

Stand-by capacity PR operating capacity which may be operated but is not
operated by the load dispatcher.
PR = Png - Pns
51
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN

2.4.6.2 The available unproducible capacity is the capacity
Available unproducible Pns which could be generated by the plant but cannot be
capacity (external influ- used by the load dispatcher because of external in-
ences) fluences, i.e. for reasons which are outside the plant.
Due to the determination of the nominal capacity as
aver-age nominal capacity of a year, one has to take
into ac-count that the available indispatchable ca-
pacity as remaining link, calculated by
Pns = PN – Pnv – PB – PR
may cause deviations from the exact value for
shorter evaluation periods than one regular year. If
in special cases the available indispatchable capaci-
ty has also to be determined exactly for shorter
evaluation periods than one calendar year, the in-
stantaneous values have to be inserted into above
correlation.
2.4.7 Pnv The unavailable capacity is the not moveable capac-

Unavailable capacity ity of a plant, which is related to the nominal capacity
(UA-capacity) for reasons which are within the plant or can not be
influenced by the plant management.
Pnv = PN – Pv
The classification of the UA-capacity into a planned
and an unplanned part is carried out according to
Figure 4.
52
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
Figure 6: Example for the determination of the nominal capacity due to the correlation between operating ca-
pacity and cooling water inlet temperature.
53
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
Operating consumption at side

- direct supplied consumers
- consumption buildings, operating equipment, et al.
Figure 7: Capacity Terms’ of energy conversion plants.
54
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
Figure 8: Terms for energy- and heat opearted plants.
55
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
Figure 9: Capacity terms of hydro pumped storage power plant.
56
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
Figure 10: Interconnection point in the data exchange between Operator, Grid Operator.
57
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
2.5 Energy-related terms
Wnv un
energy Wnv
unavailable
undispatchable
W nv ud Wnv
energy Wnb
Wnv p
unproducible energy
available Wns - external influence Wns
energy not
generated
Wng energy -
producible but not gen-
nominal energyWN
stand-by
WR erated energy - stand-by
energy -
WR energy
available energy Wv
dispatchable
energy Wb
energy energy
generated WB WB generated
unit load dispatcher
Figure 11: Diagram of energy-related definitions.

58
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
Designation Symbol Terms of definition and designation
2.5.1 WN The nominal energy is the product of nominal capacity and

Nominal energy reference period.
WN = PN · tN
WN Pe Nominal energy during peak times is the product of nomi-

2.5.2
nal capacity and nominal time limited to the peak times.
Nominal energy
during peak times WN Pe = PN · tN Pe
Wv The available energy is the energy which can be generated

2.5.3
in the reference period due to the technical and operational
Available energy
condition of the plant.
Wv = WN - Wnv
Wv Pe The available energy is the producible energy in peak times

2.5.4
in view of the plant's technical and operational condition.
Available energy
during peak times Wv Pe = WN Pe - Wnv Pe
Wb The dispatchable energy of a production unit is the sum of

2.5.5
generated energy and stand-by energy.
Dispatchable en-
ergy Wb = Wv - Wns
The non dispatchable energy resulted in analogy to UA-
energy.
WB The dispatchable energy of a production unit is the sum of

2.5.6
generated energy and stand-by energy.
Generated energy
WFP The schedule energy is the energy that must be produced

2.5.7
on the basis of the schedule set by the dispatcher.
Schedule energy
59
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
2.5.8 Wng The available energy not generated is that part of available
Available energy energy which is not generated and/or cannot be generated
not generated due to external influences.
Wng = Wv - WB
= WR + Wns
2.5.8.1 WR The stand-by energy is the energy which may be generat-

Stand-by energy ed in addition to the energy generated but is not generated.
2.5.8.2 Wns The available unproducible energy is the energy which

Available unpro- cannot be generated due to external influences, i.e. for
ducible energy reasons which are outside the plant. Pay also attention to
(external influ- the note in Chapter 2.4.6.
ence energy)
2.5.9 Wnv The unavailable energy is the energy which cannot be

generated for reasons which are inside the plant or cannot
Unavailable ener-
be influenced by the management.
gy (UA-energy)
The unavailable energy is calculated from the sum of una-
vailable capacities multiplied by the respective periods:
Wnv = ∑ (Pnv · t)
The respective period t is not always identical to the una-
vailable period tnv according to Chapter 2.5.8.
The unavailable energy is composed of a planned and an
unplanned part.
Wnv = Wnv p + Wnv u
60
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
2.5.9.1 Wnv p The planned unavailable energy is that unavailable energy

Planned UA- the respective beginning and duration of which have to be
energy determined more than 4 weeks in advance.
2.5.9.2 Wnv u The unplanned unavailable energy is that unavailable ener-

Unplanned UA- gy the beginning of which cannot be postponed or only up
energy to 4 weeks.
The unplanned unavailable energy is subdivided into a
postponable and a not postponable part.
Wnv u = Wnv ud + Wnv un
2.5.9.3 Wnv ud The unplanned postponable unavailable energy is that part

Unplanned post- of unplanned unavailable energy the beginning of which
ponable UA- can be postponed more than 12 hours up to 4 weeks.
energy
2.5.9.4 Wnv un The unplanned not postponable unavailable energy is that

Unplanned not part of unplanned unavailable energy the beginning of
postponable UA- which cannot be postponed or only up to 12 hours.
energy
61
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
Analysis of the unavailability

of Power Plants
- Execution Instructions -
62
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
B DETERMINATION OF PERFORMANCE INDISCATORS

- Rules and regulations -
3 Plant (Unit) determination

For the comparability of availability results attention is to be paid to the factual delimi-
tations of power plant systems.
In most cases the availability determination is carried out for units. The delimitation of
a plant (unit) is made, as far as the grid is concerned, at the high-voltage terminals of
the machine transformer and, as far as the fuel is concerned, at the commissioning
point to the power plant.
If several units have a joint equipment, e.g. a joint fuel supply, a joint chimney, a joint
flue gas cleaning one has to consider that the unavailabilities of this joint equipment
are added to each respective unit.
For plants with combined generation of Heat and Power (CHP) the delimitation for
the heat generation is normally the commissioning point.
63
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
Power plant unit Power plant units with a

joint equipment
unit unit A unit B
steam generator steam generator steam generator
steam turboset steam turboset steam turboset
steam turbine steam turbine steam turbine
generator generator generator
maschine maschine
transformer transformer
Equipment belonging to
the unit, e.g.:
(common) systems
- machine transformer asigned to several
units, e.g.:
- fuel supply
- fuel supply
- internal supply
- internal supply
- feedwater supply
- feedwater supply
- cooling water supply
- cooling water supply
- fuel gas purification
- fuel gas purification
- chimney
- chimney
Figure 12: Factual delimitation of power plant systems.
64
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
4 Principles and hierarchy of events

It is important to notice that the unavailability has basically to be referred to the
nominal capacity.
The allocation made for an unavailability into
- planned
- unplanned postponable
- unplanned not postponable
continues for the whole duration of the unavailability, (exception see Chapter 13.5).
Hierarchy of events
If there are, at the same time, several reasons for a shutdown or a capacity decrease
of a plant (Figure 13 to Figure 16) following order of priority applies to the evaluation:
1. unavailability planned
2. unavailability unplanned
3. external influence
4. stand-by
If there are at the same time an unavailability and an external influence or a stand-by,
it is necessary to determine the available energy, as if external influence and stand-
by respectively did not exist (Figure 15 and Figure 16).
65
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
PN
WB Wnv un Wnv p Wnv un

P
beginning beginning end end t

repeated repeated leckage
leckage
testing testing
Figure 13: Example for the determination of the unavailability with the simultaneous presence of a planned (e. g.
repeated testing) and an unplanned partial unavailability (e. g. leakage).
PN
P Wnv p WB
WB
beginning damage t
end of planned
of trial emergency trip unavailability
(scheduled date)
Figure 14: Example for the determination of the unavailability with the simultaneous presence of a planned una-
vailability (e.g. revision) and an unplanned event (e. g. turbine emergency trip).
66
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
PN
stretch-out
stretch-out
Wns Wnv un
P Wns
WB WB
emergency trip t
Figure 15: Example for the determination of the unavailability with the simultaneous presence of an unplanned
unavailability (e. g. turbine emergency trip) and an external influence (e.g. stretch-out-operation with
nuclear power plants)
PN
Wns Wns
WR
P
Wnv un
WB
t
beginning end
partial unavailability partial unavailability
Figure 16: Example for the determination of the unavailability with the simultaneous presence of an unplanned
partial unavailability (e. g. feed water pump failure), an external influence (e. g. cooling water temper-
ature beyond design) and a stand-by (e. g. lack of load).
67
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
5 Capacity fluctuations by different temperatures of cooling water

and air
The capacity fluctuations which result from seasonally caused different cooling water
inlet temperatures at the condenser and/or air inlet temperatures with gas turbines
form the basis of the nominal capacity definition, see Figure 6.
Reduced capacities within the fluctuation range, e.g. during the summer months, are
thus, according to the definition, no unavailable capacities and even no external in-
fluence capacities.
6 Excess energy
According to the definition excess energies (energies above the nominal capacity)
are not considered when determining the energy availability.
So values of > 1 and/or > 100 % are not possible.
In contrast to the energy availability are excess energies included into the considera-
tion for the energy utilization, so that values of > 1 and/or > 100 % are possible.
Unavailable energy above the nominal capacity is basically not taken into considera-
tion.
7 Market assessed supply reliability

The market assessed supply reliability is a financial approach to benchmark the eco-
nomical operation of a power unit in the market. Considering both the deviation be-
tween operational and scheduled work in a time slice, and the assessment of the de-
viation with the profit margin (market price, e.g. EEX in Germany, reduced by the
specific variable costs) concerning to this time slice it is possible to decide, whether a
power unit has been dis-patched economically or not.
Looking at the specific variable costs at least the fuel costs should be considered
(including the greenhouse gas costs for conventional power plants).
The schedule (power plant schedule) is obligatory for the supply of electrical capaci-
ty and electrical work in a time slice (e.g. 15 minutes).
68
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
8 Exceeding and falling below planned unavailabilities
8.1 General
According to Chapter 2, a planned unavailability ends at that time (scheduled date)
which was fixed at least 4 weeks before the beginning of the unavailability. This date
may be fallen below or exceeded (extension, see Chapter 1).
In case of falling below the planned unavailability ends in time with the grid synchro-
nization, with regard to the capacity it ends when the required capacity has been
reached (see Figure 14).
If a trial/test operation is carried out before the end of the planned unavailability
(scheduled date), which will be interrupted due to a malfunction or a damage, the
assignment of the unavailability continues corresponding to the hierarchy of event
(see Chapter 1).
8.2 Extension
Any exceeding of the target date of a planned unavailability is an extension and must
be recorded separately. Reasons for an extension may be both planned and un-
planned.
An extension is planned, when it is determined at least 4 weeks before the target
date. As with the planned unavailability, the duration, i. e. the new target date, has
also to be determined with the planned extension. All other extensions are not post-
ponable unplanned unavailabilities (see Figure 17).
69
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
PN
WB Wnv p Wnv un WB
not postponable
unplanned
extension
≤ 4 weeks
t
Determination of End of
the target date planned UA
exceeded (target date)
Figure 17: Extension of a planned unavailability due to a damage.
9 Retrofitting measures (Retrofit)

Shutdowns due to retrofitting or improvement do not interrupt the data recording for
the availability determination.
10 External influences
External influences are defined as external events, which occur to a power plant or
unit, affecting the capacity or dispatchability but not the availability. These events
(i. e. climate, regulatory rules) cannot be affected by the power plant management.
10.1 Capacity restrictions by external influences

Capacity restrictions of a plant due to external influences which cannot be affected by

the management or when just a little, do not decrease the availability. These capaci-
ty restrictions by external influences are defined as available indispatchable
capacity, as far as the reason for the capacity losses are substantiated by fol-
lowing listed or comparative events and these do not lead to a technical dam-
age or a malfunction in the plant.
70
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
10.1.1 Fuel
- fuel shortage (e. g. supply difficulties, icing)
- fuel quality (outside the design band)
- stretch-out-/stretch-in-phases in nuclear power plants
- reduced capacity by fuel limitation.
Fuel related reductions in capacity may be caused by management decisions accord-

ing to commercial reasons. Therefore those are not external influences.
10.1.2 Mothballing of the plant

Shutdowns in connection with preservation measures, e.g. preparing the plant as a
cold stand-by capacity, are also considered as external influences, as far as the plant
otherwise is fully technically available.
Availability statistics can be falsified by the cold stand-by of a power plant (100 %
available according to external influences), especially when the power plant stays on
cold preservation for a long time. For statistical evaluations the situation of cold
stand-by must be taken into account by diminishing of the reference period. The ref-
erence period begins with the first new start-up announcement of the power plant
after a mothballing period and ends if the plant must be preserved once more again.
In Germany this concerns, for example, capacity and climate reserve (as of 2015).
The non dispatchable energy of a correspondingly conserved plant is to be carried
out as external influence.
This means that these undisturbed plants have a technical availability of 100 %, alt-
hough they are not available for the commercial market. Independent of this, all inci-
dents are to be reported to VGB until the final decommissioning.
These plants are managed separately by the VGB and do not enter into the standard
evaluation from the year after the conservation, but are still part of the years of tech-
nical-scientific reports.
71
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
10.1.3 Climate
- water shortage due to e.g. icing, ice floes, screenings, high/low water, infiltration
of fish etc.
- temperature of cooling water and air (outside the design band, and approved
values of the plant respectively), see Chapter 5.
- smog, emissions into the surroundings of the plant
- Power limitation due to extraordinary external infuences
10.1.4 Grid related restrictions

The delimitation of the plant on the grid side is at the high-voltage terminals of the
machine transformer.
All results which lead to an impairment of the energy leakage into lines, coupling
parts etc., are to be assessed as outside influence.
All events causing a disturbance of the energy transmission concerning the grid lines
or electric coupler system, etc., are considered as external influence:
- The measures which do not permit the transfer and the release of the energy
when they are out of the responsibility of the plant operator. (e.g. maintenance
work/disturbances in the transformer stations or in high voltage lines which do
not permit the transmission capacity).
- The measures to the security or to the reliability of the electricity supply system,
which are ordered by the grid operator.
Note:
A start-up based on a redispatch command from the grid operator is neither an una-
vailability nor a technical performance restriction and therefore also not part of the
UA-/AV-statistics.
10.1.5 Shortage of personnel

Missing stand-by ability due to a reduction of the shift personnel in certain low load
periods for economic reasons, e.g. shutdowns during the weekend.
72
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
10.1.6 Other matters

- Strike, siege, occupation, terror assault, shipping and flying accident, earthquake,
force majeure
- Open day
- No safety authorities permission for restart of an available Nuclear Power Plant
- Missing environmental certificates
- Forced restrictions of the authorities for operation
Plants that temporarily or permanently provide steam or heat must be handled as
described in the following chapter for cogeneration plants. The change in the type of
energy conversion from energy to steam or heat or vice versa does not have any ex-
ternal influence.
Note:
If the concerned plant is considered as a pure electricity generation plant, a conver-
sion of the steam/heat quantity into the equivalent electrical energy is to be carried
out.
11 Combined heat and power generating plants (CHP)

Availability determinations of plants with co-generation are only useful when they fa-
cilitate an evaluation of the total plant, i.e. when they are performed including the
heat generation.
This requires the definition of the total capacity, i.e. of the nominal capacity of the co-
generation plant. Three cases are possible:
73
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
Case (a): The electrical capacity corresponds to the total capacity
Energy Wnv KWK electrical unavailable Wnv
undispatchable
unavailable
energy
energy Wnb
equipment electrical Wnb
Wnv äqu
unavailable energy by
thermal generation
energy not Wng stand-by

generated WR
energy
PN = PN KWK
Nominal energy WN
Ddspatchable
available energy Wv KWK
energy generated WB KW
energyt Wb
electrical electrical
energy WB WB energy
Wb
generated generated
equivalent electrical
PB äqu
energy generated by WB äqu

thermal generation
Figure 18: Co-Generation plant (CHP) with an extraction condensing turbine, case a.
74
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
Case (b): The electrical capacity and the thermal capacity add up to the total capaci-
ty
energy Wnv KWK electrical
undispatchable
Wnv
unavailable
energy Wnb
unavailable energy
Wnb
unavailable energy by Wnv äqu
thermal generation
energy not
PN
Wng stand-by
generated WR energy
nominal energy WN KWK
KWK
dispatchable
energy Wb
PN
energy generatedt WB
electrical WB electrical
energy WB energy
generated generated
PB äqu
energy generated by WB äqu

thermal generation
Figure 19: Co-generation plant (CHP) with an extraction condensing turbine, case b.
75
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
Case (c): The electrical and the thermal capacity intersect in one partial area, i. e.
the sum of both is higher than the total capacity
electrical
Wnv
energy Wnv KWK
unavailable
undispatchable
unavailable
energy Wnb
energy
Wnb
unavailable energy by Wnv äqu
thermal generation
energy not generated

Wng stand-by
WR
PN
energy
KWK
nominal energy WN KWK
dispatchable
energy Wb
PN
Wb max
energy generated WB KWK
electrical
energy electrical
generated WB WB energy
generated
Päqu max
energy generated by
WB äqu
PN äqu
thermal generation
view dispatcher
Figure 20: Co-generation plant (CHP) with an extraction condensing turbine, case c.
76
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
11.1 Nominal capacity and nominal energy from co-generation plants

When defining the total capacity of the co-generation plant PN CHP one always has to
proceed from the highest electrical permanent capacity (nominal capacity PN accord-
ing to Chapter 2.4.1). In case b) and c) this must be complemented by the thermal
capacity which goes beyond PN, expressed in an equivalent electrical capacity PN equ.
PN KWK  PN  PN equ
PN KWK: nominal capacity of the co-generation plant

PN: highest electrical permanent capacity
PN equ: equivalent electrical capacity of the thermal generation, which goes
beyond PN
The nominal capacity PN CHP has to be defined at commissioning. Changes of capaci-
ty are permitted only with essential changes of the nominal conditions (e. g. remain-
ing changes of the heat acceptance conditions) and with constructive measures at
the plant.
According to that the nominal energy of a co-generation plant is.
WN KWK  WN  WN equ
WN KWK: nominal energy of the co-generation plant

W N: electrical nominal energy (see Chapter 2.5.1)
WN äqu: equivalent electrical nominal energy through thermal generation,
which goes beyond WN
11.2 Equivalent electrical energy through thermal generation

The equivalent electrical energy is the product of the steam quantity and the specific
energy of the steam dependent on the steam condition. This corresponds to the en-
ergy which could be generated in the turbine unit by an extraction steam quantity.
Wequ   Di  a i 
i
77
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
Wequ: equivalent electrical energy through thermal generation

D: extraction steam quantity in t
i: extraction point
a: specific energy in kWh/t
11.3 Energy availability
WN KWK  Wnv KWK

kW  mit Wnv KWK  Wnv  Wnv equ
WN KWK
Wnv: unavailable electrical energy (see Chapter 2.5.9)

Wnv equ: equivalent unavailable electrical energy through thermal generation
11.4 Energy utilization
WB KWK WB  WB equ
nW  
WN KWK WN KWK
WB KWK: generated energy of the co-generation plant

WB : electrical energy generated (see Chapter 2.5.6)
WB equ: equivalent electrical energy generated through thermal generation
78
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
12 Successful start-up rate

The successful start-up rate is the ratio of the number of successful start-ups to the
number of total requested start-ups over a given period of time. (see Chapter 1.3.3).
A start-up is technically considered as a successful start-up, when the connection of
the unit to the grid (closing the line circuit breaker) succeeds and stays in a stable
state:
For the determination of the successful start-up rate, it is important to take into ac-
count just the start-ups arising when the unit is considered available. All start-ups
during maintenance phases or test-start are not taken into account in the determina-
tion of this indicator.
A successful start-up is one which, with the respect to the start-up requested, corre-
sponds to the exact level of power and the exact timing specified in the scheduled
drafted by the grid administrator. A tolerance of ± ¼ hour is granted and the connec-
tion must be maintained at least ½ hour at a stable level.
For gas turbines and all emergency units those conditions are stronger: The unit
must be connected at least 10 minutes after the start-up order has been received by
the load dispatcher.
79
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
13 Special regulations
13.1 Measures in available plants

Measures in an available but not operated plant, which take no more than
30 minutes, do not reduce the availability.
Measures which take more than 30 minutes are unavailabilities, even when the oper-
ations can be interrupted at any time and the plant can be started in its usual start-up
period.
A disregarding of this rule would result in inadmissible distortions of the availabilities.
13.2 Failure of flue gas cleaning

Basically any capacity restriction of the unit caused by the flue gas cleaning plant is
unavailability.
According to each country specifications for pollution control (e.g. 13. BlmSchV in
Germany) it may be allowed to continue the operation of a boiler and thus the power
plant unit even in case of the flue gas desulphurization plant failure when the failure
period does not exceed a fixed period of hours per year.
The same special regulations may be applied to DeNOx plants.
13.3 Nuclear power plants

The regulations are apply in conformity with the operation manual at start-ups due to
fuel saving program.
In adaptation to the availability determination of WANO [5] capacity restrictions by
Stretch-in/stretch-out have been defined for nuclear power plants since January 1,
1991 as an available undispatchable capacity (external influence capacity), as far as
there does not exist an unavailability at the same time (Chapter 4 and Figure 15).
According to the instruction manual those regulations set up in Chapter 4 and Figure
15 are valid with start-ups after a fuel-saving program.
80
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
13.4 Missing operating permit

Shutdowns and operating mode with reduced capacity respectively are, due to a
missing/cancelled operating permit, unavailabilities only when there are technical de-
fects within the plant.
If assumed technical and/or organizational defects are not confirmed and if inspec-
tions or tests have not been executed to prove this, these events are to be evaluated
retroactively as available undispatchable capacity/unproducible energy due to exter-
nal influences.
If inspections and tests were required to prove the technically perfect condition of the
plant, it is allowed only to consider the period after the end of inspections/tests until
the re-granting of the operating permit to determine the available undispatchable ca-
pacity/unproducible energy due to external influences.
81
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
PN
Wnv p Wnv p
P
WB Wnv Wnv WB WB WB
damage advanced planned t originally planned

unavailability unavailability
Figure 21: Advancing of a planned unavailability on the occasion of a damage.
13.5 Advancing of planned unavailabilities

On the occasion of an unplanned unavailability one advances an unavailability which
is planned for a later time.
In contrast to the original assignment (see Chapter 4) the unavailability has to be as-
sessed as planned from the beginning of the advanced unavailability for the original
duration (scheduled value) (Figure 21). This is also true when the planned unavaila-
bility is advanced for economic reasons, as far as it is possible to prove that there are
no operational and/or safety-related reasons for advancing.
82
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
14 Data recording
14.1 Use of gross or net values

For the determination of availability one can calculate with gross or net values. By
restricting the energy generated to the operating time of the unit (connected to the
grid) one avoids a negative capacity/energy when using the net capacity for the de-
termination of the energy generated (e.g. with reference to the shutdown auxiliary
consumption from the grid).
Small differences result from e.g. the conversion from non-electrical drives to electri-
cal drives and other changes in the electrical auxiliary consumption (see Chap-
ter 11.2).
15 Calculation of average values
Beside uniform definitions and determination methods, also definite and uniform reg-
ulations are necessary to compare availability considerations. The following sections
show how the average values are to be formed for one or several calendar or operat-
ing years.
15.1 Fundamentals
It is valid for the following formulas and figures:
i = 1, 2, …, I plant numbering
j = 2002, 2003, …, J calendar years, e.g. 2002, 2003
m = 0, 1, 2, …, M operating years of the plants
- The calendar year in which commercial operation began is
the operating year zero (m = 0).
- One operating year corresponds to one calendar year
(January 1 to December 31).
Exceptions usually are the years of the beginning of the

commercial operation and of the decommissioning.
tN reference period (see Chapter 2.3.3), corresponds to the
number of hours of the considered calendar year:
normal year tN = 8,760 h
leap year tN = 8,784 h
83
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
15.2 Average value for several plants for one calendar year or one operating
year
The different average value calculations can be seen in the following matrix, e. g. for
the available energy Wv:
Year of com- Year of com- Year of com-

mercial op- mercial opera- mercial opera-
eration of tion of unit 2 tion of unit
unit 1 3+4
(m=0)
(m=0) (m=0)
j=2003
j=2006 … j=J
j=2002 j=2004 j=2005
unit 1 Wv,1 Wv,1 Wv,1 Wv,1 Wv,1 Wv,1
(i=1) (m=0) (m=1) (m=2) (m=3) (m=4) (m=M)
unit 2 Wv,2 Wv,2 Wv,2 Wv,2
(i=2) (m=0) (m=1) (m=2) (m=M)
unit 3 Wv,3 Wv,3 Wv,3
(i=3) (m=0) (m=1) (m=M)
(i=4) (m=0) (m=1) (m=M)
unit I Wv,I Wv,I
(i=I) (m=0) (m=M)

Wv,i,j for a certain calendar year (e. g.: j = 2005)
Wv,i,m for a certain operating year (e. g.: m = 1)
84
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
15.2.1 Average energy availability kWmittel for I Plants
in the calendar year j: in the operating year m:
I I
mittel
 Wv,i,J mittel
W v ,i,m
k
i 1
k W ,j
 i 1
I W ,m
 I
 WN,i,j W
i 1
N,i,m
i 1
Wv,1, j  Wv,2, j  ...  Wv,I, j Wv,1,m  Wv,2,m  ...  Wv,I,m

 
WN,1, j  WN,2, j  ...  WN,I, j WN,1,m  WN,2,m  ...  WN,I,m
The calculation of the other parameters is made analogously, replacing the:

time availability kt: Wv by tv, WN by tN
time utilization nt: Wv by tB, WN by tN
energy utilization nW: Wv by WB
15.2.2 Average operating time tBmittel for I Plant
t Bmittel
,j  nmittel
t, j  tN ,m  n t ,m
t Bmittel mittel
 tN
The calculation of the average operating time for several plants with the help of the
average time utilization nt of these plants makes it possible also to include and cor-
rectly evaluate plants, whose takeover or decommissioning has taken place within a
calendar or operating year.
15.2.3 Average utilization duration taNmittel for I plant
aN, j  n W
t mittel  tN aN,m  n W  tN
mittel
t mittel mittel
85
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
The calculation of the average utilization period for several plants with the help of the
average energy utilization nw of these plants makes it possible also to include and
correctly evaluate plants, whose takeover or decommissioning has taken place within
a calendar or operating year.
15.3 Average value for several plants for several calendar years or several
operating years
The different average value calculations can be seen in the following matrix, e.g. for
the available energy Wv:
Year of
Year of com- Year of com-
commercial
mercial op- mercial oper-
operation
eration unit 1 ation unit 2
unit 3+4
(m=0) (m=0) …
j=2003 (m=0) j=2006 j=J
j=2002 j=2004
j=2005
unit 1 Wv,1 Wv,1 Wv,1 Wv,1 Wv,1 Wv,1

(i=1) (m=0) (m=1) (m=2) (m=3) (m=4) (m=M)
unit 2 Wv,2 Wv,2 Wv,2 Wv,2

(i=2) (m=0) (m=1) (m=2) (m=M)

(i=3) (m=0) (m=1) (m=M)

(i=4) (m=0) (m=1) (m=M)
…
unit I Wv,I Wv,I

(i=I) (m=0) (m=M)
Wv,i,j for a certain calendar year (e. g.: j = 2005)
Wv,i,m for a certain operating year (e. g.: M = 2)
86
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
15.3.1 Average energy availability kWmittel for I plants and J calendar years or M oper-
ating years:
for J calendar years:

I J
mittel
 W
i 1 j 20..
v ,i,J
k W,j  20.. bis J

 I J
 W
i 1 j 20..
N,i, j
( Wv,1,20 ..  ...  Wv,1,J )  ( Wv,2,20 ..  ...  Wv,2,J )  ...  ( Wv,I,20..  ...  Wv,I,J )

( WN,1,20..  ...  WN,1,J )  ( WN,2,20..  ...  WN,2,J )  ...  ( WN,I,20..  ...  WN,I,J )
for M operating years:

I M
mittel
W v ,i,m
k  i1 m 0
W ,m  0 bis M I M
W
i 1 m  0
N,i,m
( Wv,1,0  ...  Wv,1,M )  ( Wv,2,0  ...  Wv,2,M )  ...  ( Wv,I,0  ...  Wv,I,M )

( WN,1,0  ...  WN,1,M )  ( WN,2,0  ...  WN,2,M )  ...  ( WN,I,0  ...  WN,I,M )
The calculation of the other parameters is made analogously, replacing the:

- time availability kt: Wv by tv, WN by tN

- time utilization nt: Wv by tB, WN by tN
- energy utilization nW: Wv by tB
It is only allowed to include such plants into the average value calculation, which
have already reached or exceeded the operating year M.
87
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
15.4 Classification and comparison of units

The following diagrams may be used in order to benchmark two or more units:
- Percentile diagram
- Pareto diagram
The Percentile-Diagram is used to compare the relative position of one data among a
homogeneous group of same statistical data. Here this type of diagram is used to
compare the performance indicator of one unit or plant with the same indicator of
other units or plants.
Unit Capability Factor

AT/BE/CH/CZ/DE/DK/ES/FR/HU/IE/IL/IT/NL/PT/SI/ZA
Steam Turbine - All Fuels - P =100/199 MW - (1990 to 2004)
Distribution
„Best
Quartile“
Median
93,4
88,22
400 383
350
309
number of units
300 271
250
200
1557 Unit. Years
200 Arith. Average=84,2
150 129
100 64 68
38
50 24 21
5 2 0 5 0 0 10 8 10 10
0
5 10 15 20 25 30 35 40 45 50 55 60 65 70 75 80 85 90 95 100
percent
Figure 22: Example of frequency distribution [Eurelectric].
The distribution is shared in four quartiles. The under quartile (percentile 25) is called
„Worst Quartile” and the upper quartile (percentile 75) „Best Quartile“(see Figure 22).
The difference between the two quartiles represents exactly 50 % of the distribution
and can be used as statistical spread.
Another important value used in this distribution is the median (percentile 50, middle
quartile), which shares the group in two equal parts.
The Pareto principle is often described as ‘80 to 20 rule’. This rule means that in
most situations approximately 80 % of the problem is justified by 20% of the possible
causes.
The Pareto-Diagram is built with the accumulation of one performance indicator or
failure list. The values of the performance indicator or the type of failure are down-
88
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
ward classified and accumulated from left to right of the X-coordinate. The results
often are graphically interpreted.
Figure 23: Example of a Pareto chart.

89
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
16 Analysis of the unavailability of thermal power plants
16.1 History of VGB guideline 140

The external availability determination of thermal power plants through the VGB was
extended to the analysis of unavailabilities in the year 1988. The previous VGB
Guideline “VGB Guideline 140” includes principles and special features, which have
to be observed for a systematic and externally uniform determination of unavailable
events and the reporting to the VGB. Simultaneously, it is the basis for plant-internal
determinations which are normally more detailed.
The update of this guideline is now integrated at into the VGB Standard and will not
be used as a separate document.
16.2 Unavailability analysis from thermal power plants

The unavailability analysis (UA-analysis) is a supplementary and continuing analysis
with the purpose to find out and evaluate reasons and producers of unavailabilities. It
gives information on operational and constructive weaknesses and enables to take
measures which especially reduce the unplanned unavailability and thereby increase
the availability above all in case of a request.
These principles as well as the existing guideline dictate the rules for the data deter-
mination and the data flow and show possibilities of evaluation in the unavailability
analysis. The correlation between principles, determination and evaluation of data as
well as between the unavailability analysis and the availability determination is shown
in Figure 24.
With regard to the expenditure and the benefit, the UA-analysis is a significant step
between the unavailability determination of an unit and a complete and large-scale
statistics of damages.
The systematic of the unavailability analysis is shown in Figure 25 with the example
of fossil-fueled unit plant. Starting from the availability determination [3], the unavail-
ability is divided according to the criteria
- effect on the plant, time frame (Chapter 18.5)

- Type of incident (Chapter 18.2) and
- Causer (KKS-function) [4].
90
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
16.3 Power plant classification system (KKS) and reference designation sys-
tem for power plants (RDS-PP®)
New and withdrawn standards as well as revised EU directives with regard to plant
identification and documentation had their considerable influence on the power plant
classification system KKS [4] of the VGB PowerTech. In the course of time, the KKS
also had to cope with the development of power plant technology. In order to main-
tain acceptance on international markets and to ensure compliance with valid stand-
ards, manufacturers and operators alike have had to adapt the KKS to the current
standards. Experiences and recognized improvement potentials in the application of
the KKS complete the adaptation and creation of the KKS successor system. The
new labeling system, which conforms to the standards, has received the name „Ref-
erence Designation System for Power Plants“ (RDS-PP® [10]) and is also maintained
by VGB PowerTech.
91
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
principles data recording evaluation

VGB power plant/operator VGB
guidelines key design operation revision results
availability
„available of reporting report

thermal power availability „availability of
plants“ definitions/ unit-related thermal power
determination rules - planned UA plants“
- unplanned UA
master plan • postponable
- name • not postpona-
- nominal capacity ble data special determina-
- fuel - operating hours - collection tions e. g. for
- type of construction - generation - control
- operator
- commissioning - revision
event- - archiving - VGB committes
characteristic-
analysis of unavailability
key systems
(EMS) time limits,
type of event, capacity restriction/
shut down
power plant reporting una-
classification vailability analy-
system (KKS) sis event-related report
- priod „analysis of
„analysis of - unavailable unavailablil-
unavailability energy ity of ther-
of thermal - KKS mal power
power plants“ - EMS plants“
Figure 24: Information flow for determination and revision of data.
92
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
Ar beits-Nichtver fügbar keit (NV)

energy unavailability
Zeitrahmen
time Ereignisar
type of t Ver ursacher
producer
limits event Hauptgruppe
main Gruppe
group sub-
Untergruppe
group group
unplanned
unavailability
ungeplante NV other
übrige
disponibel
postponable H steam
H Dampf- other
übrigeMAMA
damage generator MK
MAGenerator-
generator
nicht Schaden erzeugung anlage
not plant
disponibel
postponable sonstige MA Dampf-
other MA steam
turbinen- MAB
MAB
anlage
turbine plant
MAA
MAA
Arbeitsausnutzung
Energy utilization
Arbeits-
Energy
Nichtverfüg-
unavaila-
bility
barkeit übrige
other HA
übrige HA
other LL
Arbeits- HACHAC
Energy availability
verfügbarkeit Revision
revision M turbo
Turbosatz
HA Druck-
HA pressure
system HAJ
M set HAJ
system HAH
nicht HAHHAD
HAD
HHDampf-
steam
Energy not erzeugung
erzeugte generator
generated
Arbeit Inspektion Other MA
inspection übrige MA
MAB: MP turbine
MAB : MD-Turbine
MAA: HP turbine
MAA : HD-Turbine
Vorbeugende
preventive repair
Instandsetzung
Other HA übrige HA
geplante NV HAC : ECO ECO
planned UA reconstruction,
Umbau, expansion
Erweiterung HAC:
HAJ :
HAJ: Zwischenüberhitzer
reheater
sonstige HAH : HD-Überhitzer
other HAH: HP reheater
HAD : Verdampfer
Ver fügbarkeits-
Availability HAD: evaporator
determination
er mittlung
Nichtver fügbaranalysis
Availability keits-Analyse
Bild2: Beispiel zur möglichen Untersuchungstiefe der Nichtver fügbar keits-Analyse
Figure 25: Example for a possible examination depth of the unavailability analysis.
16.4 Range of determination

Within the unavailability analysis, only those events have to be recorded, which lead
to full and partial unavailabilities of a unit.
For carrying out it is necessary to collect the unavailabilities so as it corresponds to
the rules which are valid in this connection, in accordance with the definitions of this
guide. Only this way it is possible to receive excessive and comparable values within
the requirements.
Over and above that, it is important that the relevant definitions of power plants are
observed (Chapter 3). For unit plants they take place, from the side of the grid, with
the high-voltage terminals of the machine transformer, from the side of the fuel, with
the transfer point to the power plant.
Unavailabilities are such events which limit the ability of the plant or of the plant part
to convert energy or meet their corresponding function because of plant-technical
damages, defects or measures. Also capacity restrictions due to outside influences
according to Chapter 10 have to be recorded additionally for questions of operational
planning.
93
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
The data, which are required for the external unavailability analysis, are already
available in parts both to the operator and to the VGB. To enable a clear classifica-
tion of power plant units to the different evaluation modes, following design and op-
erating data must be indicated in connection with the unavailable events (see
VGB-S-002-33 Annex to VGB-S-002 series, ‘Input and Output Forms’):
- company
- name of power plant
- unit designation
- nominal capacity (gross, net)
- reported year.
Following information is necessary to describe the event:
- period of unavailability (beginning and end)
- unavailable energy or unavailable capacity (gross or net),
- plant designation of the unavailable producer according to the KKS [4];
- depth of classification is the three-digit function key,
- designation of characteristics of the events according to the key types 1 and 4 of
the EMS (Chapter 18.2 and 18.5),
- brief description.
With the key resp. designation systems (EMS/KKS resp. RDS-PP1) the correspond-
ingly valid version must be applied.
If there is a recording of the unit availability in parallel to the recording of the unavail-
ability via single events, it must be guaranteed that the results of availability and una-
vailability are the same according to both ways of procedure.
Attention must also be paid to that the evaluation and classification of unavailabilities
into
- a planned UA,
- a postponable unplanned UA,
- a not postponable unplanned UA.
do not diverge against other recordings.

The data transfer for the unavailability analysis to the VGB is to be made once a
year. The electronic data transmission should be preferred and coordinated with the
VGB.
1
RDS-PP® is the internationally standardized successor system for KKS
94
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
16.5 Recording of event data
Within the scope of external availability determination with the VGB, the essential
design and operating data of the participated power plant units are already at hand.
Therefore only the unavailable events of the power plant units are to be recorded
for the unavailability analysis.
Valid in general is:
- The evaluation of an event as an unavailable event depends on the principles
and rules according to this guide.
- Only events, which result in a full and partial unavailability of an unit, are to be
recorded. Events with the consequence of an island operation and without a ca-
pacity restriction are not to be recorded for external purposes.
- For every unit unavailability only one report each must normally be produced.
This is also valid for planned unvailabilities (e. g. revision).
- To describe an event, one has to make the requested entry in all fields of the da-
ta sheet.
- For the recording of advanced planned measures (e. g. revision) see Chap-
ter 13.5.
Further information regarding recording as well as recording examples:
- Rules for the recording of event data (Table 1)
- Encoding of event data (Table 2) with an example (Figure 26)
- Recording examples “Single Event”
- Examples “Temporarily Overlapping Events” (Figure 26 – Figure 28)
- Recording examples “Temporarily Overlapping Events” (see VGB-S-002-33 An-
nex to VGB-S-002 series, ‘Unavailability incidents and temporarily overlapping
incidents’).
95
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
Table 1: Rules for the recording of event data.
serial Rule
no.
1 Beginning and end of an unavailability
An unavailability during the operation starts when the capacity of the unit had to
be reduced or was reduced automatically. The unavailability ends when the
required capacity has been reached, see Figure 16.
When an unavailability is detected during an inoperational time the moment of
the unavailability starts with the determination of the partial or full failure of the
available capacity. The unavailability ends with the moment when the unit can
be operated again.
2 Unavailability over several capacity levels

When the unavailability extends over several capacity levels, this event has to
be established with a report, as far as the encoding of KKS and EMS is the
same in all capacity levels and all capacity levels connect with each other un-
brokenly.
When, however, a partial unavailability goes over into a full failure with the
same cause (KKS), two events have to be recorded (Figure 27).
The unavailable energy/average unavailable capacity must be entered.
3 Temporarily overlapping unavailabilities

When in addition to a partial unavailability (e. g. failure of a draft fan) there is
another event with a different producer (e. g. generator damage), it has to be
observed that the unavailable energy for the unit is not recorded twice during
the temporarily overlapping of events (Figure 28); see Chapter 4.
4 Producer of an unavailability
It has to be indicated the KKS function of the producer, who is responsible for
the period of the full or partial failure, and if possible in a three-digit way. The
KKS indication can be dropped, when the activities respectively measures refer
to the complete unit (e. g. revision).
5 Effect on the plant – time limits

Selection EMS 4/1
e. g. code H = can be postponed more than 12 hours
6 Type of event of the unavailability

Selection EMS 1
e.g. code A2 =damage
96
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
serial Rule
no.
7 Effect on the plant – main effect
Selection EMS 4/2
e.g. code 4 = unit shutdown necessary.
With events in combined/gas-and-steam plants only „4” is used, when gas and
steam turbine area, with KWK plants power and heat delivery are isochronous
and completely unavailable.
97
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
Table 2: Encoding of event data.
(see ‘Single Events’ or see VGB-S-002-33 Annex to VGB-S-002 series, ‘Unavailabil-

ity incidents and temporarily overlapping incidents’)
Question regarding Rule to be

Information Entry
the encoding checked
When did the una- Shift book: (1) 25.02., 18:31 1

vailability start? Capacity reduction after the 3
evening peak at 18:31.
Unit shutdown from the mains
19:02. (2) 25.02., 19:02
When was the un- Shift book: Generator was

availability fin- synchronized again after the
ished? end of repair at 12:00. Load (3) 26.02., 12:00
dispatcher requirement
achieved at 12:25.
(4) 26.02., 12:25
Which energy was unavailable energy [2] Chap- 4.358,33 MWh 2

not available be- ter 6 3
cause of this una-
vailability?
Which plant sys- evaporator HAD 4

tem resp. which
KKS function was
the main produc-
er?
How urgent was Leakiness was discovered at C 5

the elimination of 11:30 by the shift worker, but
the damage? the unit could continue run-

(effect on the plant ning until the evening peak.
– time limits, EMS
4/1)
What was the rea- Incipient crack at the evapo- A2 6

son for the una- rator pipe by extension ob-
vailability? struction, repair necessary.
(type of event,
EMS 1)
98
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
Has the event Unit had to be shut down 4 7

caused a full or completely for repair.
partial failure of the
unit?
(effect on the
plant/main effect,
EMS 4/2)
single event
1 4
P 4
1
incipient crack at the
evaporator pipe by ex-
WB tension obstruction WB
W nv un
2 3
25.02. 26.02. date

18:31 12:25 time
25.02. 26.02
19:02 12:00 t
Figure 26: Unavailable event “incipient crack at evaporator pipe”.

99
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
Temporarily overlapping events
capacity
available capacity
MW
250
event 1
event 2
KKS = HLD
KKS = HLD
EMS 4/1 = C
EMS 4/1 = C
125
06.05. 06.05. 07.05. date

13:12 23:48 07:51 time
Figure 27: Unavailability over several capacity levels
capacity
available capacity
MW
250
event 1
KKS = HLB
EMS 4/1 = C
EMS 1 = A2
125
event 2
KKS = MKY
EMS 4/1 = A
16.05. 17.05. 18.05. date

19:30 13:12 17:51 time
Figure 28: Failure of a draft fan and of the generator during capacity operation.
100
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
16.6 Evaluation
The evaluations of unavailabilities are made once a year. The results are compiled
and published in the VGB Report “Analysis of Unavailability of Thermal Power
Plants” [9].
The “unavailability analysis” is a supplementary and continuing examination of unit
unavailabilities which are described in the VGB Reports “Availability of Thermal Pow-
er Plants” [3]. In addition to the analysis of e.g. the reasons for the planned parts of
the unit unavailability above all for the postponable and not postponable unplanned
unavailability it supplies information on the producers.
The analysis is made in different detail levels:
- the summary of producers under the first digit of the KKS function,
- the differentiating of producers, each after the first three digits of the KKS func-
tion, separated for the fuel-related and the fuel-independent areas of power
plants.
In this connection, the plants included in the analysis are combined according to pri-
mary energies, capacity sizes, process characteristics (e.g. combined plants). Fur-
thermore, the analysis of the unplanned unavailability happens according to the EMS
keys:
- effect on the plant – time limits and main effect
- type of event.
Figure 29 shows how the unavailable data can be evaluated according to the criteria
of data groups „design data”, „time aspect” and „event data”.
For the VGB unavailability analysis, some of these possibilities have been selected
for the regular report [9]. They are to enable an entering into the unavailability analy-
sis to the user. In addition to that, further possibilities of evaluation can be used
through the VGB on request.
101
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
eEvr
eing
Ertndis
eigadta
niste
dan
t en
oedr
D
p euareuir yngg
- a n n)n) )
NA
U V-D ieissrttguu itoionn aalhihm mmietes
NV A -Le
L n
ee k
c
n t
kt
t)nt
) )
ngg)
NNVV- S-F-fFuuunn ((ZZ
U t eitiertr
iem i
f
a reatv)re
s rrk kuun
K S ons cwt i
)i
KKK 44//11 tyerpieg
enigi fufuess
En
EEM MSS 1( E (rE i
uunp ptetaa ng g
bnibuun
tw S
1 m
H a a e i
e
d
E M H r
icken
lvutw EM
ES /2/2 (
( cihcphtiro
enlio
gcpk M M SS44 iissbbseecssr
e
n d
time aspect
EE
lmuen eiinggtn
Ve ngt eEvre
E
Zeitaspekt
ränV
Inbetriebnahme
commissioning
cdhe
of construction
Zeitpunkt
earräun
nngde
g er
un
HerstellerHersteller
producer
Ku g
Inbetriebnahme
mu
BrennstoffBrennstoff
laK
Type Bauart
actui
comun
umlau
Leistung Leistung
capacity
Type of plant
M tliaot
it t nion
Anlagenart
fuel
elw
em
Mrite
taten
Bauart
lwv
aerlu
te
Anlagenart
tteenn
tas
gdsdaa
g
nuan
ngleudg
u
eAsiulges
dA
Figure 29: Possibilities of evaluation.

102
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
III. EMS Event characteristic key system

- Application and key part -
103
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
C ELECTRONIC AQUISITION AND PROCESSING OF DATA BY

THE VGB DATA BANK AND STATISTICS OF PER-
FORMANCE INDICATORS
17 Power plant information system KISSY

Operating figures are very important for operators. Therefore the electrical gathering
of operating data and the determination of performance indicators are strategic tools
for all VGB members, in order to optimize the productivity of a power plant in compe-
tition as well as the complete benchmarking of one power plant fleet with the same
technology. With its modern online Power Plant Information System (KISSY) VGB is
able to collect, to gather and to process a big amount of operating data.
KISSY is based on a relational data base installed on an Oracle-platform. This data
base has currently contained the availability figures, performance indicators as well
as events causing unavailability (UA-incidents) from international power plants since
1970.
Online with the internet interface, each ordinary member is able to feed in data for its
own plant or fleet into the data bank, to interrogate the performances for its group as
well as to establish some graphics.
17.1 KISSY access and data input

All members from VGB who decide to feed in performance data and events have an
access to the KISSY data bank. For that the supplier receives a secure identification
login and password, which permit the access to the internet KISSY website (through
a SSL connection). All data coming from its own power plant fleet could be accessi-
ble for reading, writing, and revising.
VGB furnishes the access authorization to the KISSY data bank on inquiry.
The availability data are fed in KISSY depending on type of power plant (Figure 30
and Figure 31):
- at least annually for fossil fired plants,
- monthly for nuclear power plants.
104
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
Figure 30: Screen ‘Select type of plant/unit’
Figure 31: Example of yearly operating and availability data of a power plant.
105
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
The user can feed in every event characteristics into the data bank with the help of a
data mask (Figure 32).
Figure 32: Example of unavailability incidents.
The user can feed in every event characteristics into the data bank with the help of a
data mask.
17.2 Evaluations and reports

VGB makes all data input into KISSY anonymous and classifies and categorizes
them for benchmarking reasons. In these classifications and categories, you can find
all the data concerning the same technology or the same characteristics. So it is pos-
sible to compare anonymous the performance of one power plant with other.
106
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
The essential groups of standard evaluations are:

- Fossil fired units,
- Nuclear power plants,
- CCGT plants,
- Gas turbines.
Ordered by:
- unit power,
- fuel,
- furnace type,
- mono-/duo-unit,
- under-/supercritical installations.
The evaluation can be done for:

- time availability,
- time utilization,
- energy availability,
- energy unavailability,
- capability factor.
All companies which feed in data into KISSY receive every year standardized reports
presenting the availability by groups and analyzing the unavailability of power plant
components in a cycle of ten years, for free.
Updates can be downloaded on the VGB website for all members inside a closer us-
er’s group, for free too. Non-members may buy all reports from VGB.
Special studies or reports may also be ordered from VGB for individual fees. More-
over the standardized evaluations can be realized online by the tools of the website.
107
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
D EMS EVENT-CHARACTERISTIC-KEY-SYSTEM
– Application and Coding List –
History and purpose of the EMS

In the past different indication- and coding-systems for registering operational events
were used in Germany by operators, producers and institutions with the aim of char-
acterization of events:
- VGB-SMS (VGB damage-characterization-system) for registering of non-
availability-events in power plants,
- GRS-coding for reports of significant events in nuclear power plants,
- GRS-coding for calculation of reliability indicators in nuclear power plants,
- IAEA-keys for registering of total and partial outages in nuclear power plants,
- VDEW-indicator-register for registering grid failures and damages, producer
codes, key systems for probabilistic security analysis,
- key systems for implementation processes of integrated management systems
and others.
The present EMS was introduced in 2003 and has the claim to replace all former
event describing key systems in Germany. With EMS double and multiple registering
of an event and therefore different assessments are avoided and a definite coding for
analysis is guaranteed. In addition EMS can be used as a basis for an international
key system.
108
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
18 Structure of event characteristic key system EMS and overview

The EMS describes different aspects of an event with 12 key. Each key contains one
or more groups. In some cases the groups are hierarchical structured. Event attrib-
utes are related to each group.
A long description and a code are existing for each key, each group, or each attrib-
ute. The code consists of one or more letters, or numbers, or a combination of both.
It is necessary for a definite and complete description of an event to specify each key
and all groups with defined attributes.
Presented below is the structure of coding an attribute:
Key No. Group No. Attribute of event Code
The following Table 3 shows the 12 keys and their groups.

109
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
Table 3: Key overview.
No. of key Name Group Name Code
01 Type of event 1 Type of event ANN
02 Operational status be- 1 Operational status before AN

fore beginning of event beginning of event
03 Operational status after 1 Operational status after AN

beginning of event beginning of event
04 Impact on unit 1 time frame A

2 Main effect N
3 Effect to NPP A
05 Outage impact on sys- 1 Outage impact on sys- AN

tem/component tem/component
06 Cause 1 Origin AN
2 Influence/activity AA
3 Failure/Impact on unit NN
07 Failure mechanism 1 Type of failure AN

2 stress ANN
08 Failure 1 Failure AN
09 Recognition of outage 1 occasion of recognition AN
2 expression of outage ANN/
AAN/AA
10 Maintenance method 1 Maintenance method A

11 Measures against re- 1 Measures against recur- ANN
currence rence
12 1 Urgency of beginning of A
Urgency of measures repair N
2 Personal-engagement
Alphanumeric: A
Numeric: N
One digit code: A or N
Two digit code: AA, AN or NN
Three digit code: AAN or ANN
110
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
18.1 Application recommendations

- EMS should be combined with the reference design system of power plants
(KKS) to relate the event to a function, aggregate or equipment.
- The EMS is an extensive key system from which keys, groups or single attributes
can be chosen according to the requirements.
- Example: VGB uses only the relevant codes for registering the non-availability
events of all units. Group 1, and 2 are omitted within the codes A0, B0, D0, and
D1, and in key 4.
- The hierarchy within a group is presented by indentation of text.
- Also a coarser classification is possible with the hierarchical structured groups
within the keys. In those cases where a deeper structure is omitted (shown by
simple or double shift) the last respectively the both last digits can be omitted.
- Example: For internal reasons it can be committed to use the key 11 only with 2
digits (middle deeps of classification) or even 1 digit. In the first case all twice
shifted, in the second case also the simple shifted attributes would be omitted.
- If you use in a hierarchical structured group the second or third depth of the
structure, only the attributes of this level are to be used. The additionally use of
attributes of a higher level is not allowed because the front digits of the code con-
tain this information automatically.
Example: Key 1, group 1, attribute B4 “inspection”: in this case the information of
B0 ”maintenance“ is omitted (compare Chapter 18.2).
In some groups of EMS it is possible to register simultaneously several attributes
in one group (multiple nominations) for each event. If multiple nominations are al-
lowed it is necessary to define rules for registering and analyzing and for inter-
pretation to consider the widened statement.
Remark: There are more fields for registering necessary.
- The number of hits will be enlarged while searching for events with identical at-
tributes.
- In these cases it is necessary to give a remark if the results are referred to

somebody else.
- The structure for registration in forms or templates is in principle identically for all
keys of EMS.
- The code is to be filled in always left hand to avoid mistakes and allow analyses.
In some keys the codes of group 3 do not exist. Therefore the fields on the right
and/or the middle remain free.
- If it is allowed to choose multiple attributes in one group or a complete key, then
there are n-times code fields to be filled in.
111
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
18.2 Event characteristic key 1 „Type of event“
Key Group Code Text

01 1 Type of event
A0 Outage
A1 Failure without damage
A2 damage
B0 Maintenance
B1 inspection/check of status
B2 lubrication
B3 servicing
B4 inspection
preventive maintenance
B5
cleaning
B6
planned maintenance
B7 change of fuel element
B8
C0 modification/extension
D0 non operating
D1 stand-by
D2 external influence (without damage)
D21 fuel
D22 preservation of unit
D23 climate
D24 grid restrictions
D241 Redispatch
D25 lack of personnel
D26 others
E0 tests/ functioning tests/ functioning check
F0 official testing/measure
G0 leak of reactivity
K0 commercial fueling
Z0 other keys of events
Advice: An apportion of “external influence” (D2) can be achieved by combina-

tion with key 6, group 3.
112
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
18.3 Event characteristic key 2 “Operating status before event”
Key Group Code Text

02 1 operating status
A0 change of operating status
A1 start up
A2 shut-down
A3 change of power
A4 change of operational mode
B0 stationary operation
B1 zero power
B2 minimum load
B3 partial load
B4 full load
B5 over load
B6 by-pass operation
B7 isolated operation
B8 phase shifting
B9 pumping in pump storage power stations
S0 Shut down
S1 maintenance/change of fuel elements
S2 cold shut down
S3 hot-stand-by
S4 reserve
Advice: The attributes in keys 2 and 3 are identically. Key 2 describes in differ-
ence to key 3 the operational status before beginning of the event.
113
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
18.4 Event characteristic key 3 “Operating status after event”
Key Group Code Text

03 1 operating status
A0 change of operating status
A1 start up
A2 shut-down
A3 change of power
A4 change of operational mode
B0 stationary operation
B1 zero power
B2 minimum load
B3 partial load
B4 full load
B5 over load
B6 by-pass operation
B7 isolated operation
B8 phase shifting
114
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
B9 pumping in pump storage power stations
S0 Shut down
S1 maintenance/change of fuel elements
S2 cold shut down
S3 hot-stand-by
S4 reserve
Advice: The attributes in keys 2 and 3 are identically. Key 3 describes in differ-
ence to key 2 the operational status after beginning of the event.
115
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
18.5 Event characteristic key 4 “Impact on unit”
Key Group Code Text

04 1 time-frame
A automatic load shedding/emergency tripping
B manual load shedding/emergency tripping
C controlled shut down within 12 hours
D restart up or putting in operation not possible (unless

point E, K, L). The start-up cannot be started
because of technical failures.
E exceeding of planned time according point J or K by

unplanned measures (failures, damages, …)
F start-up-delay. Once started it cannot be finished

within ordered time with connecting to grid.
G prolongation of start-up. the increase of power after

connecting to the grid is not possible according start-
up-curve/instruction manual.
H more than 12 hours postponable
J more than 4 weeks ante planned
K annual revision
L exceeding of planned time according point J or K by

prolongation of planned durance
M without effect (allowed only in combination with com

ponents)
2 main effect
1 without reduction in power (P2 = P1)
2 Power limitation (0 < P2 < P1)

3 isolated operation
4 shutdown (P2 = 0)
116
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
Key Group Code Text

04 3 impact on nuclear power plants
A emergency power supply
B partial load reduction (automatic)
C actuation of main steam and relief valves
D actuation of main steam safety valves
E Actuation of primary safety relief valves (in relief
tank)
F SCRAM automatic
G SCRAM manual
H main containment isolation
J reactor building isolation
K Ventilation isolation
L reactor core emergency cooling
M emergency feed water
N impact on other units
Advice: In group 2 means P1 the power before and P2 the power after begin-
ning of the event.
117
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
18.6 Event characteristic key 5 “Outage impact on the system/components”
Key Group Code Text

05 1 Effect of failure
A0 No effect to component
B0 Long-term failure of component
C0 Failure of component
D0 Failure of components or measuring or control
E0 Failure of functional units

F1 Failure of part of line (operational)
F2 Failure of part of line also on request of core protect
tion
G1 Failure of whole line
G2 Failure of whole line also on request of core protect
tion
H0 Failure of function of system
J0 Failure of several functions of system
X0 Effect of failure not clear
Y0 Effect not analyzed
Z0 Other effects of failure
Advice: The use of this key requires a clear separation between system and
component from the user. The reference design system of power plants
(KKS) should be used.
118
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
18.7 Event characteristic key 6 “Cause”
Key Group Code Text

06 1 origin
A0 project/planning
A1 conceive
A2 plan
A3 design
A4 construct
A5 license
B0 specification
B1 specification from orderer
B2 specification from contractor
C0 manufacture/fabrication
C1 manufacture/fabricate
C2 assemble/disassemble/realization
C3 inspect/check
C4 storage
D0 construction/ installation
D1 assemble/disassemble/realization
D2 inspect/check
E0 putting into operation
F0 operate
F1 operation
F2 standstill without works at considered
equipment
F3 standstill with works at considered equip-
ment
F4 temporarily out of work
G0 change
G1 alteration
G2 retrofit
G3 replace
H0 disassembly/ scrapping/ demolition
119
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
Key Group Code Text

06 1 J0 transportation
J1 shipping
J2 transport
J3 store
Z0 cause not from considered equipment
2 effect/activity
TA Drawing blue print
TB Selection of material
TC Dimensioning/calculation
TD (also define strategy of maintenance)
TE designing
TF operate
TG adjust/tune/calibrate
TH treat (mechanical, …)
TJ assemble
TK test/check
TL welding
TM solder
TN lubricate
TO cleaning
TP communication
TQ process observation
TR assessment of status
TS training
TT organization and administration
TX programming
TY activity not clear
TZ activity not analyzed
other activities or no separation in addition to
„origin“
EA dimension exceeding external impact

EJ dimension exceeding internal impact
EX impact not clear
EY impact not analyzed
EZ other impacts
120
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
Key Group Code Text

06 2 UA Interruption/restrictions by official order (license, or-
der, …)
UE Technical interruption/restriction of waste disposal
(waste, rubbish, waste water, …)
UP Technical interruption of product transmission (elec-
tricity, heat, gypsum, …)
UV Technical interruption/restriction of supply (electrici-
ty, fuel, water, …)
UW Other impact of civilization
UX interruption not clear
UY interruption not analyzed
UZ other interruption
3 error/impact to unit
10 error in performance/application
11 failed measure
12 wrong measure
13 use of wrong/unsuitable material
14 wrong/incorrect order
15 use of unsuitable tools
16 tester or measuring instruments mix up
20 error in use of directions or instructions

21 non-compliance with non unit specific direc-
tions
22 non-compliance with internal directions
23 directions and instructions incorrect
24 not existing directions or instructions
25 insufficient attention to rules/guidelines
30 error in use of documents
31 use of wrong documents
32 use of incorrect documents
33 error in used documents
34 creation of incorrect documents
121
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
Key Group Code Text

06 3 50 impact
51 heat
52 fire
53 explosion
54 frost/coldness
55 freezing
56 mechanical force
57 foreign substances (also dirt, deposits)
58 pollutant/chemical impact
59 ice-drift
60 radioactive radiation
61 electromagnetic fields
62 overvoltage/overcurrent
63 precipitation (e.g. snow, rain, hail)
64 high water
65 low water
66 flood
67 mist/hoar-frost
68 soak
69 stroke of lightning
70 storm
71 earthquake/shock
72 landslip
73 animals
97 not to be clarified
98 not analyzed
99 other impact
Advice: The best profit from this key will be achieved, if attributes of all 3 groups
are used, but the number of attributes is reduced in each group to the
reasonable necessary.
122
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
18.8 Event characteristic key 7 “Damage mechanism”
Key Group Code Text

07 1 type of failure
A0 wear out
A1 wear out by gliding
A2 wear out by rolling
A3 wear out by bouncing
A4 wear out by vibrations
A5 erosion (wear out by flushing/blasting)
A6 cavitation
A7 strokes of drops
E0 tiredness/exhaustion
K0 corrosion
K1 erosive corrosion
K2 corrosion by tension
K3 corrosion induced by stretching
K4 corrosion induced by vibrations
K5 localized/pitting corrosion
K6 pitting corrosion
K7 surface corrosion
K8 crevice corrosion
K9 contact corrosion
L0 ageing
L1 ageing of material
L2 ageing of equipment
L3 creep
L4 other changes of material characteristics
G0 violent usage
G1 mechanical violent usage
G2 thermal violent usage
G3 electrical violent usage
G4 chemical violent usage
123
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
Key Group Code Text

07 1 S0 soiling
V0 damaged before
V1 shrinkhole/pore/inclusion
V2 doubling
W0 no damage
X0 damage not clear
Y0 damage not analyzed
Z0 other kind of damage
2 stress
mechanical
M00
push/impact
M01
cavitation
M02
M03 roll
M04 glide
M05 adhesion
M06 abrasion
M07 current transfer (spark erosion, elektro
lytical decay)
M08 abrasion by foreign particles
M09 effect of foreign particles
M10 deposits
M11 blast
M12 sticking together
M13 lack of lubricant
M14
adverse matching of materials
M15
vibrations/weakness (low cycle)
M16
vibrations/weakness (high cycle)
M17
tension/bracing (statical)
T00 thermal
T01 superheat/warm up
T02 undercool/cool down
T03 alternating thermal stress
T04 welded together
T05 fusion/soldered off
124
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
Key Group Code Text

07 2 E00 electrical
E01 overvoltage/overcurrent
E02 undervoltage/voltage collapse
E03 increase of isolation resistance/contact re-
sistance/interruption
E04 worsening of isolation/short circuit/arc
E05 deviation of frequency
E06 faulty electrical or electronical part
E07 drift
E08 influence of magnetic fields
E09 influence of electromagnetic fields
E10 shut down by protection (only if primary trig-

ger)
C00 chemical
C01 corrosive
C02 chemical contamination
C03 chemical reaction (direct proceeding)
C04 resinous
C05 dissolve/disintegration
C06 unsuitable condition for chemical reactions
C07 influence of smoke/steam/dust
C08 explosion/detonation
H00 hydraulic/pneumatic
H01 loss of pressure
H02 inclusion of gas
H03 hit by water
H04 inclusion of liquids
H05 turbulence
H06 hit by condensation
H07 vibrations induced by flow
H08 pressure impulse
H09 pulsation
125
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
Key Group Code Text

07 2 N00 normal operating loading
X00 leading not clear
Y00 other loadings not analyzed
Z00 other loadings respectively not applicable
Advice: The best profit from this key will be achieved, if attributes of all 3 groups
are used, but the number of attributes are reduced in each group to the
reasonable necessary.
126
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
18.9 Event characteristic key 8 “Damage”
Key Group Code Text

08 1 scene of failure
A0 soil
A1 loose deposit
A2 moisten/soak/flood
A3 mud-caked/slag/oversalt/agglomeration
A4 freeze
A5 clog
A6 impurity
A7 radioactive contamination
B0 weakness of material
B1 Surface milling
B2 channel/notch
B3 punctual removal of material
B4 incipient crack/hairline crack
B5 inclusion/shrinkhole/pore
B6 lamination
B7 porosity
C0 deformation of material
C1 extension/stretching
C2 compression/pinch
C3 twist/buckle
C4 torsion
C5 Enlargement
C6 bump out/in
C7 being oval
D0 change of position
D1 lossening
D2 dissolve
D3 squeeze/fit tightly
D4 displace/disarrange
D5 impermissible tolerance
127
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
Key Group Code Text

08 1 E0 change of material characteristics
E1 textural changes
E2 change of concentration
E3 change of viscosity
E4 anneal/burn/scorch
E5 rot
E6 dry up
E7 embrittlement by neutrons
F0 separation of material
F1 break/pull off
F2 shear off
F3 fissure/hole
F4 smelt/anneal/cease glowing
F5 electrical interruption
F6 destruction
G0 electrical change of material
G1 short circuit
G2 electrical interruption
G3 contact resistance
G4 electronic malfunction
H0 fit tightly
H1 fusion
H2 sticking together
J0 other deviation from setpoint
J1 missing part
J2 wrong part
J3 faulty software
K0 other change of material characteristics
K1 dissociation
K2 become muddy
S0 no expression of failure
X0 failure not clear
Y0 failure not analyzed
Z0 other expression of failure
128
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
18.10 Event characteristic key 9 “recognition of failure”
Key Group Code Text

09 1 occasion of recognition
A0 request of system/component
B0 request to an functional check
C0 supervision in a control room
C1 observation of a parameter
C2 fault indignation
C3 response of protective device
D0 inspection/observation on the scene of action
E0 inspection
F0 recurrent check of status
check caused by technical reflection/operational
G0
experiences
maintenance/restauration/functional test after
H0
work
J0 phase before operation
129
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
Key Group Code Text

09 2 expression of failure
A00 failure symptoms
A01 noise
A02 smell
A03 fire/smoke
A04 heat
A05 discoloring
A06 burn/scorch/char/burn out
A07 pollution/clog/making muddy/contamination
A08 freeze
A09 leakage
A10 moistening/soak/flood
A11 vibration
A12 loosen/dissolve of connection
A13 repressive/blocking
A14 displacement/dislocation/deformation
A15 removal of material/weakness of material
A16 breaking/snap/burst
A17 electrical disconnection/interruption
A18 arc
A19 missing/wrong assembled part
A20 wrong position of switches/armatures
A99 other symptoms of failure
130
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
Key Group Code Text

09 2 BB0 Functional defect
BB1 Functional failure on request
BB2 Functional change during actuation
BB3 Characterization of function parameters
BB9 Other functional deficiencies
CC deviation of measured variables and variables of

CD status
CE density
electrical variable
CF
flow/flow rate (volume/mass flow)
CG
distance/length/direction of rotation
CK time
CL level
CM humidity
CP pressure/difference of pressures
CQ quality variables (analysis, material character
CR istics)
CS radiation variable
speed/revolutions/frequency (mechanical)/
acceleration
CT
temperature
CU combined variable
CV viscosity
CW force of weight/mass
CX neutron flux
CY vibrations/stretching
CZ other measured and status variables (also
control, regulation, protection)
Z00 other expressions of failure
Advice: consider the different types of coding (ANN/AAN/AA). the “expression of

failure” (group 2) is the first recognition of deviation from the normal sta-
tus of operation; perceptible/noticeable by human sense organs or by
measuring instruments.
131
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
18.11 Event characteristic key 10 “Maintenance form”
Key Group Code Text

10 1 maintenance method
A only switching (operation, control executed, no
other measures)
B only inspection
C cleaning, flushing, draining, ventilation, decon
tamination
D supplement, fill up
E change
F adjust, readjust, calibrate, recalibrate
G restaurating repair
H exchanging repair
J changing, modification
K software works
Z other maintenance method
132
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
18.12 Event characteristic key 11 “Measures against recurrence”
Key Group Code Text

11 1 measures against recurrence
A00 no measures (only repair of failure/damage)
A10 measures were started during a former
similar event
A20 measurements in preparation
B00 change in production/construction
B10 development
B20 planning/construction
B30 production
B40 check/quality assurance department
(change of check list)
B50 transport/storage
B60 assembling
B70 commencement of operation
C00 preventive maintenance
C10 change of frequency and contents of
checks and inspections
C20 change of maintenance
C30 change of supervision
C40 change of transport and storage
D00 check of similar equipment
133
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
Key Group Code Text

11 1 E00 change/modification of plant
E10 change/modification – other types
E11 component
E12 equipment
E13 aggregate
E14 unit/system/plant
E20 change/modification – other materials
E30 change/modification – other construction
E40 change/modification – other dimensioning
E50 change of operation (not E10 to E40)
E51 supervision
E52 control
E53 regulation
(also gradients/parameters)
E54 protection
E55 operation
E56 auxiliary substances/ lubri-
cants/fuels
F00 change of organization
F10 training of employees
F20 continuation organization
F21 personnel
F22 responsibility
F23 structure
F30 documentation
F40 implement quality management measures
F41 inspection plans
F42 quality management system
Z00 other measures
134
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
18.13 Event characteristic key 12 “Urgency of measures”
Key Group Code Text

12 1 urgency of starting activities
A start of activities at once
B start of activities within 3 days
C works with fixed date
D works with free planable date
E works must be done during next outage
F works must be done during next revision
2 personal engagement
optimized personal engagement concerning
1
minimal duration of measures
personnel activities during normal working
2
hours
Advice: For using this key it is necessary to adjust the data’s with the input of
registration systems of maintenance.
135
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
19 Use of the technical assessment of energy conversion plants for

the electricity market and grid safety
The grid operator needs data from the power plant operators for its processes to en-
sure system security.
The ‘undispatchability’ is for him important in addition to the data related to the use of
the unavailability. Figure 33 shows the grid operators/electricity market point of view.
For this purpose, the power plant operator can use the analytics described in this is-
sue for availability and unavailability.
Providing data to the grid operator to determine the system's security, according to its
dispatchability definition (from the power plant operator's point of view is this tech-
nical availability) enables the grid operator to meet its requirements for system man-
agement of the energy system.
Figure 33: Analysis levels unavailability, availability dispatchability (reference net) / BDEW.
136
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
In the data delivery of the power plant operator to the grid operator, it should be not-
ed that a planned undispatchability/unavailability means all incidents at a power plant
(revision, repair) in the future. Unplanned undispatchability/unavailability is an inci-
dent for the network operator that has already entered the power plant.
Furthermore, as described above, the performance terms are defined differently by
the grid operator from his perspective. This fact is illustrated in Figure 34, Figure 35
and Figure 36.
137
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
20 Examples of use
20.1 Example 1: “Unplanned not available load reduction”
No. of event: 00000000142

Unit: KW A, Block P
KKS designation: P OCAA 20
Start of event: 30.07.2007 10:49

End of event: 30.07.2007 20:32
EMS:
Key Group Characteristic

No. Text No. Text Code Text
01 Type of event 1 Type of event A2 damage
Operational status before Operating status Full load
02 beginning of event 1 B4
Impact on unit 1 Time frame C Ordered of shut down

04
2 Main effect 2 Load limitations
06 Cause 1 Origin F1 In function
07 Failure mechanism 1 Type of damage E0 Fatigue

Detection of outage 1 Mode of detection C2 Malfunction information
09 Expression of outage Anomaly of perfor-
2 CF
mance.
Not available electrical capacity: 180 MW

Description:
Failure of condensate pump, because declutch of spindle in condensate regulation
valve (protective interlocking).
138
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
20.2 Example 2: “Blackout”
No. of event: 00000000086

Unit: KW B, Block A
KKS designation: A 0BAT 01
Start of event: 02.06.2007 03:17

End of event: 02.06.2007 18:09
EMS:

No. Text No. No. Text No.
01 Type of event 1 Type of event A2 Damage
Operational status be- Full load
02 fore beginning of event 1 Operating status B4
Impact on unit 1 Time frame A Automatic scram

04
2 Main effect 4 Shutdown
06 Cause 1 Origin D1 Montage

Failure mechanism Prematured deteriora-
07 1 Type of damage V0
tion
Detection of outage 1 Mode of detection C3 Protection activated
09
2 Expression of outage CE Electrical anomaly

Description:
Failure in insulation bushing of generator transformer.
139
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
20.3 Example 3: “Unplanned not available block unavailability”
No. of event: 00000000820

Unit: KW C, Block C, Dampfkessel 2
KKS designation: C 2HAH
Start of event: 07.09.2007 06:14

End of event: 08.09.2007 15:00
EMS:

No. Text No. Text No. Text
01 Type of event 1 Type of event A2 Damage
Operational status be-

02 1 Operating status B4 Full load
fore beginning of event
1 Time frame C Manual shutdown

04 Impact on unit
06 Cause 1 Origin D1 Assembling
Prematured deteriora-
07 Failure mechanism 1 Type of damage V0
tion
1 Mode of detection D0 Inspection
09 Detection of outage
2 Expression of outage A01 Noise
Description:
Damage of boiler, high pressure overheater 2-outlet, welded seam-pore.
140
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
20.4 Example 4: “Blackout after faulty operation”
No. of event: 00000000321

Unit: KW C, Block A, Dampfkessel 2
KKS designation: A 2H
Start of event: 06.04.2007 10:52

End of event: 06.04.2007 11:18
EMS:

No. Text No. Text No. Text
Type of event Malfunction without
01 1 Type of event A1
damage
Operational status be-
02 fore beginning of event 1 Operating status B4 Full load
Impact on unit 1 Time frame A Autom. Scram

04
06 Cause 1 Origin F0 Operation
07 Failure mechanism 1 Type of damage W0 No damage
Detection of outage 1 Mode of detection D0 Observation
09
2 Expression of outage CE Electrical anomaly

Description:
Failure in operating because of mixing miniature circuit breakers while switching off
of a control voltage.
141
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
20.5 Example 5: “BDEW”

Figure 34: BDEW.
142
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
20.6 Example 6: “Capacity terms of technical resource / BDEW”

Figure 35: Overview on the relation of capacity values of a technical resource (generator/pump) obtained on the grid connection point.
143
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
20.7 Example 7: “Capacity terms Power Plant Object / PPO of hydro pumped storage power plant / BDEW”
Figure 36: Capacity terms Power Plant Object / PPO of hydro pumped storage power plant / BDEW.
144
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
List of abbreviations
CHP Combined heat and power generation
CO2 Carbon dioxide
UA Unavailability
EEX European Energy Exchange
BImSchV Federal Immission Control Ordinance
WANO World Association of Nuclear Operators
EMS Event-Characteristics-System
KKS Power Plant Classification System
RDS-PP Reference Designation System for Power Plants
KISSY Power Plant Information System
GuD Gas and Steam
SMS Damage-Characterisation-System
GRS Society for plant and reactor safety (Gesellschaft für Anlagen- und
Reaktorsicherheit)
VDEW Association of the Electricity Industry

145
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
List of Figures and Tables
Figure 1: Analysis level unavailability, availability, dispatchability (reference

level net) ................................................................................................19
Figure 2: Operating diagram and performance indicators .....................................21
Figure 3: Classification of unavailability ................................................................23
Figure 4: Hierarchy of definitions (survey) .............................................................41
Figure 5: Diagram of time-related terms ................................................................43
Figure 6: Example for the determination of the nominal capacity due to the
correlation between operating capacity and cooling water inlet
temperature ............................................................................................53
Figure 7: Capacity Terms’ of energy conversion plants ........................................54
Figure 8: Terms for energy- and heat opearted plants ..........................................55
Figure 9: Capacity terms of hydro pumped storage power plant ...........................56
Figure 10: Interconnection point in the data exchange between Operator, Grid
Operator .................................................................................................57
Figure 11: Diagram of energy-related definitions ....................................................58
Figure 12: Factual delimitation of power plant systems ...........................................64
Figure 13: Example for the determination of the unavailability with the
simultaneous presence of a planned (e. g. repeated testing) and an
unplanned partial unavailability (e. g. leakage) ......................................66
simultaneous presence of a planned unavailability (e.g. revision)
and an unplanned event (e. g. turbine emergency trip) ..........................66
simultaneous presence of an unplanned unavailability (e. g. turbine
emergency trip) and an external influence (e.g. stretch-out-
operation with nuclear power plants)......................................................67
simultaneous presence of an unplanned partial unavailability (e. g.
feed water pump failure), an external influence (e. g. cooling water

temperature beyond design) and a stand-by (e. g. lack of load) ............67
Figure 17: Extension of a planned unavailability due to a damage .........................70
Figure 18: Co-Generation plant (CHP) with an extraction condensing turbine,
case a ....................................................................................................74
Figure 19: Co-generation plant (CHP) with an extraction condensing turbine,
case b ....................................................................................................75
Figure 20: Co-generation plant (CHP) with an extraction condensing turbine,
case c.....................................................................................................76
Figure 21: Advancing of a planned unavailability on the occasion of a damage .....82
Figure 22: Example of frequency distribution [Eurelectric] ......................................88
146
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
Figure 23: Example of a pareto chart ......................................................................89

Figure 24: Information flow for determination and revision of data ..........................92
Figure 25: Example for a possible examination depth of the unavailability
analysis ..................................................................................................93
Figure 26: Unavailable event „incipient crack at evaporator pipe” ...........................99
Figure 27: Unavailability over several capacity levels ...........................................100
Figure 28: Failure of a draft fan and of the generator during capacity operation ...100
Figure 29: Possibilities of evaluation .....................................................................102
Figure 30: Screen ‘Select type of plant/uni’ ...........................................................105
Figure 31: Example of yearly operating and availability data of a power plant ......105
Figure 32: Example of unavailability incidents.......................................................106
Figure 33: Analysis levels unavailability, availability ,dispatchability (reference
net) / BDEW .........................................................................................136
Figure 34: BdEW ...................................................................................................142
Figure 35: Overview on the relation of capacity values of a technical ressource
(generator/pump) obtained on the grid connection point .....................143
Figure 36: Capacity terms Power Plant Object / PPO of hydro pumped storage
power plant / BdEW .............................................................................144
Table 1: Rules for the recording of event data .....................................................96

Table 2: Encoding of event data ..........................................................................98
Table 3: Key overview ........................................................................................110
147
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
Literature
[1] VGB: Availability of Thermal Power Plants – Definitions and Determination Methods.
Translation of the 4th German edition 1987 (VGB-R 808 e). June 1991, VGB PowerTech
Service GmbH, Essen.
[2] VDEW: Begriffe der Versorgungswirtschaft. Teil B, Heft 1: Elektrizitätswirtschaftliche
Grundbegriffe. 7. Ausgabe 1999, VWEW, Frankfurt am Main.
[3] VGB-Bericht: Verfügbarkeit von Wärmekraftwerken. VGB Technisch-wissenschaftliche
Berichte „Wärmekraftwerke“, (VGB-TW 103), Jahresberichte seit 1970.
and
VGB Report: Availability of Thermal Power Plants. VGB Technical Scientific Reports
“Thermal Power Plants”, (VGB-TW 103 e), annual reports since 1970, English issues
since 1991, VGB PowerTech Service GmbH, Essen.
[4] KKS: Kraftwerk-Kennzeichensystem – Richtlinie zur Anwendung und Schlüsselteil (VGB-
B 105). 7. Ausgabe 2010,
and
KKS: Power Plant Classification System – Guidelines for Application and Key Part (VGB-
B 105 e). 7th Edition 2010, VGB PowerTech Service GmbH, Essen.
[5] World Association of Nuclear Operators (WANO): Detailed Descriptions of International
Nuclear Power Plant Performance Indicators. August 1989, London.
[6] Union Internationale des Producteurs et Distributeurs d´Energie Electrique (UNIPEDE):
Detailed Descriptions of International Performance Indicators for Fossil-Fired Power
Plants. December 1991, Paris.
[7] Union Internationale des Producteurs et Distributeurs d’Energie Electrique (UNIPEDE):
Statistical Terminology Employed in the Electricity Supply Industry. 4th Edition, June
1991, Paris.
[8] VGB-Bericht: Analyse der Nichtverfügbarkeit von Wärmekraftwerken. VGB Technisch-
wissenschaftliche Berichte „Wärmekraftwerke“, (VGB-TW 103 A), Jahresberichte seit
1988.
and
VGB Report: Analysis of Unavailability of Thermal Power Plants. VGB Technical Scientific
Reports „Thermal Power Plants“, (VGB-TW 103 Ae), annual report since 1988, English
issues since 1991, VGB PowerTech Service GmbH, Essen.
[9] VGB-Bericht: Verfügbarkeit von Wärmekraftwerken. VGB Technisch-wissenschaftliche
Berichte „Wärmekraftwerke“, (VGB-TW 103V), Jahresberichte seit 1970.
and
VGB Report: Availability of Thermal Power Plants. VGB Technical Scientific Reports
„Thermal Power Plants“, (VGB-TW 103 Ve), annual reports since 1970, English issues
since 1991, VGB PowerTech Service GmbH, Essen.
[10] RDS-PP Kennbuchstaben für Kraftwerkssysteme (Systemschlüssel) Revision a (VGB B
101). 3. überarb. Aufl. 2011,
and
RDS-PP Letter Code for Power Plant Systems (System key). 3rd Edition 2011, VGB
PowerTech Service GmbH, Essen.
148
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
List of keywords
Availability CHP unit ............................................. 63, 73

definition............................................. 18, 20 Combined Heat and Power Generation . see
CHP
energy ...................................................... 20
Comparison of units ................................. 88
market-assessed...................................... 25
Data recording .......................................... 83
overview ................................................... 41
begin......................................................... 44
time .......................................................... 20
Definitions
Balancing energy ..................................... 34
availability ........................................... 20, 24
Basic parameters ..................................... 39
capacity-related ........................................ 47
Calculation of average values.................. 83
dispatchability ........................................... 29
Capacity
energy-related .......................................... 58
auxiliary power ......................................... 51
failure rate ................................................ 36
available ............................................. 42, 50
hierarchy................................................... 41
available not dispatachable ..................... 42
overview ................................................... 39
available not in operation ......................... 42
reliability ................................................... 27
available unproducible ............................. 51
time-related .............................................. 43
CHP unit................................................... 77
unavailability ............................................. 22
definitions ................................................. 47
utilization .................................................. 33
diagram conversion plants ....................... 54
Dispatchability .............................. 27, 30, 31
diagram energy/heat ................................ 55
overview ................................................... 41
diagram hydro .......................................... 56
Energy
dispatchable ............................................. 50
availability ............................... 25, 78, 85, 87
equivalent electrical ................................. 77
available ............................................. 42, 59
external influence ..... see capacity, available
not dispatachable available not generated ...................... 42, 60
external influences ................................... 70 available unproducible ....................... 42, 60
fluctuations ............................................... 68 balancing .................................................. 34
generated ................................................. 50 dispatchable ............................................. 59

gross ........................................................ 50 excess ...................................................... 68
net ............................................................ 51 failure rate ................................................ 36
nominal .............................................. 42, 77 generated ................................................. 59
nominal capacity ........ see Nominal capacity nominal ..................................................... 42
restrictions................................................ 70 nominal energy ............. see Nominal energy
schedule................................................... 51 not postponable .................................. 42, 61
stand-by ................................................... 51 peak-times ................................................ 59
unavailable ......................................... 42, 52 planned............................................... 42, 61
149
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
postponable ....................................... 42, 61 KISSY see Power Plant Information System

reliability ................................................... 27 Mothballing ............................................... 71
schedule................................................... 59 Nominal
stand-by ................................................... 60 capacity .................................................... 48
unavailable ............................................... 42 energy ...................................................... 59
unplanned .......................................... 42, 61 Operating
unvailable ................................................. 60 capacity .................................................... 42
utilization ................................ 34, 78, 85, 87 energy ...................................................... 42
Event characteristic key ................. 109, 138 operation .................................................. 41
External influence stretch-out/ stretch-in ................... 67, 71, 80
climate ...................................................... 72 time..................................................... 42, 85
definition................................................... 70 Pareto-Diagram ........................................ 88
dispatcher ................................................ 22 Perzentile-Diagram .................................. 88
fuel ........................................................... 71 Point of transfer ........................................ 57
grid related restrictions ............................ 72 Power Plant Information System
hierarchy .................................................. 65 data collection ........................................ 104
other matters ............................................ 73 evaluation ............................................... 106
shortage of personnel .............................. 72 Profit margin ............................................. 68
External influence energy ......... see Energy, Reference period...................................... 44
available unproducible
Regulations .............................................. 63
External influence time .......... see Time, not
Reliability
dispatachable
unplanned .......................................... 27, 29
Failure rate ......................................... 22, 36
Retrofitting measures ............................... 70
Grid connection point ............................... 57
Rules ........................................................ 63
Hierarchy.................................................. 65
Schedule
Indicators
capacity .................................................... 51
availability .......................................... 18, 24
compliance ............................................... 30
CHP ......................................................... 38
power plant ............................................... 68

CO2 .......................................................... 38
Special Regulations
diagram .................................................... 21
flue gas cleaning ...................................... 80
failure rate .......................................... 36, 37
missing operating permit .......................... 81
other ......................................................... 38
nuclear power plants ................................ 80
overview ............................................. 19, 39
Stand-by ............................................. 41, 65
reliability ................................................... 27
Start-up reliability ............................... 22, 28
start-up rate.............................................. 79
Successful start-up rate ........................... 79
UAGS ....................................................... 32
Supply reliability
utilization .................................................. 33
market-assessed ................................ 28, 68
150
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-08-EN
Terms Unavailability
energy ...................................................... 58 advancing of planned ............................... 82
hierarchy ............................................ 41, 42 analysis .................................................... 90
Time classification ....................................... 22, 23
availability .................................... 24, 85, 87 energy ...................................................... 26
available ............................................. 42, 44 evaluation ............................................... 101
available not dispatchable ....................... 45 extension .................................................. 69
available time not in operation ................. 45 external influence................................... 70
begin date ................................................ 44 falling below ............................................. 69
definitions ................................................. 43 hierarchy................................................... 65
during peak-times .................................... 44 not postponable ........................................ 23
end date ................................................... 44 overview ................................................... 41
failure rate ................................................ 36 planned............................................... 23, 65
nominal .................................................... 42 postponable .............................................. 23
not dispatachable ..................................... 42 recording ............................................ 93, 95
not postponable ................................. 42, 46 time........................................................... 26
operating ............................................ 42, 45 unplanned .......................................... 23, 65
peak-times ............................................... 44 Undispatchability .............. see Unavailability
planned .................................................... 46 Utilization
postponable ....................................... 42, 46 calculation ................................................ 22
reference period ......... see Reference period definition ................................................... 33
reliability ................................................... 27 duration .................................................... 85
stand-by ................................................... 45 energy ...................................................... 20
unavailable ......................................... 42, 46 market-assessed ...................................... 35
unplanned ................................................ 46 Variable costs ........................................... 68
utilization ...................................... 33, 85, 87 VGB Guideline 140 .................................. 90
151
>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB-S-002-03-2016-12-EN (Public License)

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

VGB-S-002-03-2016-12-EN (Public License)

Uploaded by

Document Information

Copyright

Available Formats

Share this document

Share or Embed Document

Sharing Options

Did you find this document useful?

Is this content inappropriate?

Copyright:

Available Formats

VGB-S-002-03-2016-12-EN (Public License)

Uploaded by

Copyright:

Available Formats

VGB-Standard

Technical and Commercial

Phone: +49 201 8128-200

All rights reserved. VGB PowerTech.

>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

Public License Document

Network access allowed

Copying and distribution allowed

All other rights reserved.

>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

Treatment of proposing amendments

>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

VGB Standard Date of change Chapter Description

VGB-RV 808 March 2008 Original

Chapter 1.1. Figure 1 updated

Chapter 2.4 Figure 7 to 10 included

Chapter 15.1 Gross-Net values

Chapter 17 EMS 1: extended by D21-D26

Chapter 17.2 ff KKS/RDS-PP

Tables removed (data sheet

Chapter 19 Chapter included

Chapter 20 Chapter included

>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

 Provision of parameters and indicators for public relations etc.

Essen, in August 2016

VGB PowerTech e.V.

>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

Cord Bredthauer, Uniper Kraftwerke GmbH

Uwe Dorn, LEAG Lausitz Energie Kraftwerke AG

Henrik Moller Jorgensen, Fjernvarme Fyn A/S

Ralf Kirsch, Vattenfall Europe Generation AG

Franz-Peter Laube, PreussenElektra GmbH

Jean-Francois Lehougre, EDF-DPIT

Stefan Prost, VGB PowerTech e.V.

Dr. Jörn Rassow, EnBW Energie Baden-Württemberg AG

Dr. Ralf Uttich, RWE Generation SE

1st Edition 1970

2nd Edition 1973

3rd Edition 1980

4th Edition 1987

4th Edition 1991 (English)

5th Edition 1992

6th Edition 1999

7th Edition 2008

8th Edition 2016

>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

1 Indicators ................................................................................................ 18

1.5 Failure rate ............................................................................................... 36

>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

2 Definitions ............................................................................................... 41

2.4.5 Schedule capacity..................................................................................... 51

>>> VGB DIGITAL <<<

2.5.3 Available energy ....................................................................................... 59

3 Plant (Unit) determination ...................................................................... 63

4 Principles and hierarchy of events ....................................................... 65

5 Capacity fluctuations by different temperatures of cooling water and

6 Excess energy......................................................................................... 68

7 Market assessed supply reliability ........................................................ 68

8 Exceeding and falling below planned unavailabilities ........................ 69

9 Retrofitting measures (Retrofit)............................................................. 70