Optimization of heat engines using different heat transfer laws by means of the method of saving functions

Abstract

In 2000 Velasco et al [1] introduced a new optimization criterion for the CA-engine model in terms of a profitable type process in the operation of a power plant model. This approach is based on using the so-called saving function as a measure of possible reduction of undesired side effects in heat engine operation. Velasco et al [1] defined two saving functions; one associated with fuel consumption and another associated with thermal pollution, where each saving function takes into account three weight coefficients that measure the participation degree of the corresponding process in the optimization criterion. We made use of this criterion to analyse the Novikov’s power engine model [2] but by using different heat transfer laws: Newtonian and Dulong-Petit (DP) heat transfer laws [3]. We compare our results with those reported by Velasco et al [1]. Our results show a saving in fuel consumption of approximately 44% and a reduction in thermal pollution of 42% with respect to the operating regime of maximum power, a value that is in agreement with some reported in the literature.