Multi-objective optimization and flexibility analysis of a cogeneration system using thermorisk and thermoeconomic analyses

Abstract

In the present study, an optimal power and freshwater cogeneration system is proposed to meet the global requirements sustainably. A Rankine cycle (RC), an organic Rankine cycle (ORC) and a reverse osmosis (RO) module are integrated to form the proposed system. The performance of the system is investigated using thermo-mathematical models allocating seven organic fluids in the bottoming ORC. A novel evolutionary algorithm-based multi-objective optimization approach is applied using thermorisk and thermoeconomic analyses. Thus, an optimal configuration is determined at both global and local scales. Finally, a flexibility analysis is performed to the optimal configuration considering probable uncertainties in the market. The optimization results showed that the total accidental risk impact and the total product cost rate improved by 2.49–48.73% and 5.67–62.41%, respectively, depending on the employed organic fluid. The highest exergetic efficiency and the minimum specific power consumption were obtained as 52.74% and 4.111 kWh/m3, allocating R245fa in the optimal system. The system enjoying R123 had the widest flexibility range without any increases in the optimum total product costs.