Thermodynamic optimization for an open cycle of an externally fired micro gas turbine (EFmGT). Part 1: Thermodynamic modelling

Abstract

The principle of optimally tuning the air flow rate and subsequent distribution of pressure drops is applied to optimize the performance of a thermodynamic model for an open regenerative cycle of an externally fired micro gas turbine power plant with pressure drop irreversibilities by using finite-time thermodynamics and considering the size constraints of the real plant. There are eight flow resistances encountered by the working fluid stream for the cycle model. Two of these, the friction through the blades and vanes of the compressor and the turbine, are related to the isentropic efficiencies. The remaining flow resistances are always present because of the changes in flow cross-section at the compressor inlet and outlet, the turbine inlet and outlet and the regenerator hot/cold-side inlet and outlet. These resistances associated with the flow through various cross-sectional areas are derived as functions of the compressor inlet relative pressure drop, and control the air flow rate and the net power output and thermal efficiency. The analytical formulae for the power output, efficiency and other coefficients are derived, which indicate that the thermodynamic performance for an open regenerative cycle of an externally fired micro gas turbine power plant can be optimized by adjusting the mass flow rate (or the distribution of pressure losses along the flow path). It is shown that there are optimal air mass flow rates (or the distribution of pressure losses along the flow path) which maximize the net power output.