Abstract
<p indent=0mm>Based on finite-time thermodynamics theory, this paper proposes a two-stage thermal Brownian heat pump cycle model combined with an intermediate reservoir. The model is formed by two Brownian heat pump cycles operating in series. Two heat pump cycles operate between three heat reservoirs with constant temperature. In this regard, finite-rate heat transfer processes exist among heat pump cycles and reservoirs. In consideration of the heat transfer losses among reservoirs and heat pump cycles, the expressions of heating load and coefficient of performance (COP) are derived. The influence of design parameters on system performance is analyzed by numerical calculations. Results show that heating load decreases monotonically with the increase in the barrier height of the potential and increases monotonically with the increase in the external load and the asymmetry of the potential. The COP reaches the maximum values with the barrier height of the potential, the asymmetry of the potential, and the external load. When the heat reservoir temperatures are constant, the closer the intermediate heat reservoir temperature is to the topping cycle heat reservoir temperature, the higher the heating load and the COP. Compared with one-stage thermal Brownian heat pump cycle, which works between the heat source and sink with the same temperatures, the combined Brownian heat pump cycle has a larger heating load but a reduced COP.
Published Version (
Free)
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call