Resume

S. R. KANNAN
Retired Engineer | Expert in Boiler Design & R&D

A seasoned engineering professional with extensive experience in product design, commissioning support, and research & development in the power sector. Over 40 years of expertise in combustion technology, NOx reduction, clean coal initiatives, and boiler system innovations. Recognized for leading multiple R&D projects and receiving national and organizational awards for contributions to the field. Known for solving complex engineering problems and pioneering technological advancements that have contributed to improved power plant efficiency and environmental compliance.

Senior Engineer (1972 - Retirement)
Throughout my tenure at BHEL, I played a crucial role in the design, development, and commissioning of large utility boilers, focusing on improving their efficiency, reliability, and compliance with environmental standards. My responsibilities included:

• Leading the design and enhancement of boiler pressure parts and combustion equipment, ensuring higher performance and durability.
• Spearheading research initiatives focused on reducing NOx emissions and developing cleaner combustion techniques.
• Addressing and resolving major boiler pressure part failures, significantly reducing plant downtime and improving overall operational efficiency.
• Overseeing the installation and successful implementation of Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) and Bypass Over Fire Air (BOFA) systems to minimize environmental impact.
• Providing technical expertise and troubleshooting support for power plants across various locations, including an overseas assignment in Egypt, where I contributed to the resolution of critical boiler performance issues.

My career at BHEL allowed me to lead and contribute to various high-impact projects, including:

• NOx Reduction & Clean Coal Technology: Developed and tested advanced burner designs, optimizing combustion processes to achieve significant reductions in NOx emissions while maintaining fuel efficiency.
• Fly Ash Management: Designed and implemented a dense phase conveying system to streamline the transportation and disposal of fly ash, improving efficiency and reducing environmental hazards.
• Direct Ignition of Pulverized Coal (DIPC): Played a key role in reducing the dependence on fuel oil for ignition in thermal power plants by developing a direct coal ignition system, leading to substantial cost savings.
• Heritage Locomotive Burner Design: Designed innovative small-capacity burners specifically for heritage steam locomotives, ensuring efficiency while preserving traditional engine operations.

Innovation has been a key aspect of my work, resulting in several patented technologies:

• Bypass Over Fire Air (BOFA) System: An advanced NOx reduction technology that enhances combustion control and minimizes emissions.
• Gravity-fed Oil Burner: A simple yet effective burner designed for use in heritage locomotives, reducing complexity and maintenance.
• Cup & Pool Oil Burner: An innovative design that eliminates the need for oil pumps and forced air fans, simplifying operations and improving reliability.

My contributions to engineering and research have been recognized with multiple awards, including:

• Republic Day Award for an outstanding technical paper on NOx reduction strategies.
• BHEL Productivity Improvement Awards for multiple groundbreaking innovations that enhanced plant efficiency and environmental compliance.
• BHEL EXCEL Award for professional excellence, received consecutively from 2002 to 2006.

I have actively contributed to the scientific and engineering community through:

• Presentation of research papers at both national and international conferences, sharing insights on boiler technology, emission control, and power plant efficiency.
• Publications in leading industry journals, covering combustion research, clean coal technologies, and innovative boiler designs.

To stay engaged with the latest advancements in engineering, I have maintained active memberships and certifications, including:

• Fellow, Institution of Engineers (India).
• Life Member, Indian Welding Society.
• Certified Boiler Operation Engineer, Govt. of Tamil Nadu.