SmartConvection utilizes Thermodynamic Model to determine optimum soot blowing. Thermodynamic Model uses coal combustion chemical reaction equation and Continuous Emission Monitor System (CEMS) data (O2 and CO values). Combustion model is solved for coal flow rate and boiler efficiency (loss method). Coal flow rate, excess air and boiler dimensions determine FEGT. Eventually, Thermodynamic balance around individual steam generation section of the boiler results in cleanliness factors is solved using combustion equation and heat transfer equations. Cleanliness factors are then used with gages (or without) to initiate soot blowing. Soot blowing will be initiated when cleanliness factor falls below a set point.

Input data required by the model includes boiler geometry, coalcomposition, and limited continuous emissions monitoring systems (CEMS) information. The performance calculations are used to determine the local working fluid temperatures, component heat transfer, or surface cleanliness, and are iterative in nature. Initial temperatures are selected for each individual component of the boiler. These temperatures are used to establish the thermophysical properties, calculate the mean temperature differences, and solve for the heat transfer and outlet temperature of each component. Calculations are continued until the sum of gas-side component heat transfer rates equals the known steam heat transfer.