Field Visit to Kelanitissa Power Station and Kelanitissa Combined Cycle Power Plant
August 2, 2026 · 2:30 AM - 12:00 PM @ Gampaha
Description
The IEEE Power and Energy Society (PES) Student Branch Chapter of the University of Moratuwa successfully organized a field visit to the Kelanitissa Power Station and Kelanitissa Combined Cycle Power Plant on 2nd August 2026 , providing students with valuable exposure to the operation, maintenance, and practical aspects of large-scale thermal power generation. The program commenced with an introductory session on Gas Turbine Power Plant Operation and Maintenance , conducted by the Operational Engineer of Kelanitissa Power Station . The session provided a comprehensive overview of gas turbine power plants, their operating principles, major components, and the role of gas turbine generation in the Sri Lankan power system. During the session, participants were introduced to the Brayton cycle and the operating sequence of a gas turbine, covering air intake and compression, fuel combustion, turbine expansion, and exhaust. The discussion also highlighted the importance of fuel systems, starting equipment, lubrication and cooling systems, control and protection systems, generators, transformers, switchgear, and fire-fighting systems in ensuring reliable plant operation. Particular attention was given to the Kelanitissa Power Station , one of the key thermal power generation facilities located close to Colombo's load centre. The station consists of four operational Frame-V gas turbine generator units of 20 MW each and a 115 MW Frame-IX gas turbine generator (GT-7) . The session also introduced the Kelanitissa Combined Cycle Power Station , which has a capacity of 165 MW and can operate using diesel and naphtha fuels. The field visit provided participants with an opportunity to gain practical exposure to important areas and systems associated with thermal power generation, including: Gas turbine generator sets Turbine air intake and exhaust systems Fuel storage, treatment, and forwarding systems Lubrication and cooling systems Generators and exciters Transformers and switchgear Control and protection systems Fire-fighting systems Turbine auxiliaries and starting systems Gas turbine maintenance practices The visit also provided valuable insight into the operation and maintenance challenges of gas turbine power plants , including issues associated with air filters, inlet guide vanes, fuel systems, combustion systems, lubrication systems, cooling systems, and turbine components. Participants were introduced to routine maintenance practices such as Combustion Inspection (CI), Hot Gas Path Inspection (HGPI), and Major Inspection (MI) , which are carried out based on the equivalent operating hours of the gas turbine. The field visit was a highly valuable learning experience , enabling students to connect theoretical knowledge gained in electrical and mechanical engineering with the practical operation of large-scale power generation facilities. It provided a deeper understanding of gas turbine technology, combined cycle generation, plant auxiliaries, maintenance practices, and the important role of thermal power plants in maintaining a reliable electricity supply. Overall, the visit to Kelanitissa Power Station and Kelanitissa Combined Cycle Power Plant was an enriching and informative experience, equipping participants with practical knowledge and a broader understanding of the engineering practices involved in the operation and maintenance of modern power generation facilities.
Agenda
AGENDA 08:15 AM – Departure from University of Moratuwa 09:30 AM – Arrival at Kelanitissa Power Station Registration and Welcome 09:45 AM – Introductory Session Opening remarks by Kelanitissa Engineers Brief description of the power plant & operations Explanation of steam generator annual maintenance 10:30 AM – Refreshments 10:45 AM – Guided Plant Tour 01:00 PM – Lunch 02:00 PM – Arrival at Kelanitissa Combined Cycle Power Station 02:15 AM – Introductory Session 02:30 AM – Guided Plant Tour 04:00 PM – Closing Session Presentation of appreciation plaque to Kelanitissa team 04:15 PM – Departure from Kelanitissa Combined Cycle Power Station 05:30 PM – Arrival at University of Moratuwa