2 - Finite Rate Optimization of Steady Thermal Units

Abstract

This chapter offers an advanced synthesizing approach to power yield and power limits in various thermal power generators, such as thermal and solar engines. Thermodynamic principles determine the converter's efficiency and the generated power. Static and dynamical power systems are investigated. Dynamical models take into account the gradual downgrading of a resource, caused by power delivery. Analytical modeling includes conversion efficiencies expressed in terms of driving fluxes. Products of efficiencies and driving fluxes determine the power yield and power maxima. While the static optimization of industrial and practical systems requires the use of the differential calculus and Lagrange multipliers, dynamic optimization involves variational calculus and dynamic programming. The results of power maxima provide limiting indicators for thermal and solar power generators. They are more exact than classical reversible limits of thermal energy transformation. Following the present procedure, in later chapters (Chapters 6 and 9Chapter 6Chapter 9), which deal with reacting mixtures, balances of mass and energy will serve to derive power yield in terms of the active part of chemical affinity. A generalized approach will then be applied to flow engines driven by fluxes of heat and chemical reagents.