Numerical and experimental investigation of low pressure turbine cycle using low temperature heat source

Abstract

© Research India Publications. This numerical and experimental investigation of Low Pressure Turbine cycle (LPT) using low temperature heat source for electrical generation. In this study the HCFC-141b (1, 1-Dichloro-1-fluoroethane) as a working fluid is used in the system, because of the better thermo physical properties, non-flammable liquid, non-destructive to the atmosphere, high molecular mass, low boiling point and a environmentally friendly. The operation principle of the system is given briefly below. Heat source produce by a vapor generator evaporates the working fluid. The super-heated vapor is driven to the impulse turbine where the generated mechanical work. The vapor at the turbine outlet is direct to the condenser and condensates. The saturate liquid at the condenser outlet is then pressurized using a piston pump and thermodynamic cycle is repeated. The experiment of the system has condition of operating temperatures between 70oC to 100oC and working fluid mass flow rate of 112 to 327 kg/h, as well as at the starting heat of 30oC. This research is being recorded in order to determine the performance and thermal efficiency of the LPT in the turbine driven. The results in this study are to potential development of the using the HCFC-141b with a LPT system for the drive of a vapor turbine in a small electricity unit.