scholarly journals Radioisotope Thermophotovoltaic Generator Design and Performance Estimates for Terrestrial Applications

2017 ◽  
Author(s):  
Xiawa Wang ◽  
Walker Chan ◽  
Veronika Stelmakh ◽  
Peter Fisher
Keyword(s):  
Heat Source ◽  
Energy Conversion ◽  
Heat Sink ◽  
Electrical Power ◽  
Equivalent Circuit Model ◽  
Operating Conditions ◽  
And Performance ◽  
Heat Sink Design ◽  
Performance Estimates ◽  
Source Number

This work provides the design methods and performance estimates of the radioisotope thermophotovoltaic system (RTPV) for terrestrial applications. The modeling is based on an experimentally tested prototype using two-dimensional high temperature photonic crystal to realize spectral control. The design efforts focus on the optimization of the system efficiency and contain the heat source number, the size of the energy conversion elements, the insulation configuration, and the heat sink design. An equivalent circuit model was developed for the thermal and electrical performances. Based on a specific output requirement, an optimized heat source number and energy conversion area can be computed for a certain cell type and insulation design. The selection and characterization of the low bandgap thermophotovoltaic (TPV) cells applicable to the generator are compared and discussed. The generator’s heat sink design uses extended fins and the performance is estimated based on the external operating conditions. Finally, the work provides a design example of a terrestrial RTPV generator with an output level of ∼40 W electrical power (We) using InGaAsSb cell, reaching an efficiency of 8.26%.

scholarly journals A Steady-State Equivalent Circuit of TSCAOI Configured Induction Generator for Renewable Energy Conversion Systems

2021 ◽  
Vol 6 (1) ◽  
pp. 20-30
Author(s):  
Zhijia Wang ◽  
Keyword(s):  
Renewable Energy ◽  
Steady State ◽  
Energy Conversion ◽  
Equivalent Circuit ◽  
Equivalent Circuit Model ◽  
Operating Conditions ◽  
Voltage Unbalance ◽  
Energy Conversion Systems ◽  
State Behaviour ◽  
And Performance

3-phase cage induction machines, operated in two series-connected and one-isolated (TSCAOI) winding configuration, have been proposed to generate standalone single-phase electricity at variable speeds for renewable energy conversion systems. However, the steady-state behaviour and performance of this particular generator are not yet to be theoretically investigated. This paper therefore presents the first theoretical investigation based on the steady-state equivalent circuit model for standalone TSCAOI configured generators. Moreover, this paper is the first to adopt the winding function approach to derive a dynamic mathematical model for TSCAOI configured generators. This approach not only eliminates the cumbersome mathematical manipulation required in all previous papers related to TSCAOI configured generators but also provides a visual insight into the resulting winding distribution of the machine. In order to investigate the load and excitation characteristics pertinently, the dynamic model is transformed into two different equivalent circuit models by appropriate selected transformation matrix. Using these two models, this paper identified the impacts of system parameters on the load and excitation characteristics, as well as on the level of voltage unbalance. Experimental results of a prototype generator under various operating conditions are presented, together with simulated results, to demonstrate the accuracy of the proposed investigations.

Elastocaloric Cooling With Ni-Ti Based Alloys: Material Characterization and Process Variation

2015 ◽  
Author(s):  
Marvin Schmidt ◽  
Johannes Ullrich ◽  
André Wieczorek ◽  
Jan Frenzel ◽  
Andreas Schütze ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Solid State ◽  
Heat Source ◽  
Boundary Conditions ◽  
Shape Memory ◽  
Heat Sink ◽  
Operating Conditions ◽  
Process Conditions ◽  
Cooling Process ◽  
Elastocaloric Cooling ◽  
Latent Heats

Solid state refrigeration processes, such as magnetocaloric and electrocaloric refrigeration, have recently shown to be a promising alternative to conventional compression refrigeration. A new solid state elastocaloric refrigeration process using the latent heats within Shape Memory Alloys (SMA) could also hold potential in this field. This work investigates the elastocaloric effects in Ni-Ti-based superelastic Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) systems for use in an elastocaloric cooling processes. Ni-Ti alloys exhibits large latent heats and a small mechanical hysteresis, which may potentially lead to the development of an efficient environmentally friendly solid-state cooling system, without the need for ozone-depleting refrigerants. A systematic investigation of the SMA is conducted using a novel custom-built scientific testing platform specifically designed to measure cooling process related phenomena. This testing system is capable of performing tensile tests at high rates as well as measuring and controlling the solid-state heat transfer between SMA and heat source/heat sink. Tests are conducted following a cooling process related training cycle where the material has achieved stabilized behavior. First, a characterization of the elastocaloric material properties is performed followed by an investigation of the material under cooling process conditions. A comprehensive monitoring of the mechanical and thermal parameters enables the observation of temperature changes during mechanical cycling of the SMA at high strain rates. These observations can be used to study the rate dependent efficiency of the elastocaloric material. The measurement of the temperature of both the heat source/heat sink and the SMA itself, as well as the required mechanical work during a running cooling process, reveals the influence of the operating conditions on the elastocaloric effect of the material. Furthermore investigations of the process efficiency at different thermal boundary conditions (temperature of heat source/heat sink), indicates that the process is dependent on the boundary conditions which have to be controlled in order to optimize the efficiency.

Performance Characteristics of 20kW Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion Pilot Plant

2015 ◽  
Author(s):  
Ho-Saeng Lee ◽  
Seung-Won Lee ◽  
Hyeon-Ju Kim ◽  
Young-Kwon Jung
Keyword(s):  
Heat Exchanger ◽  
Heat Source ◽  
Energy Conversion ◽  
Thermal Energy ◽  
Temperature Difference ◽  
Heat Sink ◽  
Pilot Plant ◽  
Working Fluid ◽  
Thermal Energy Conversion ◽  
Ocean Thermal Energy

To experiment 20kW OTEC, the closed-cycle type of OTEC (Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion) was designed and manufactured. R32 (Difluoromethane, CH2F2) was used as the working fluid and a temperature of heat source and heat sink is 26°C, 5°C, respectively. The semi-welded type heat exchanger is applied for the evaporator and condenser and the cycle was designed for the gross power of 20kW. In the plate arrangement of the semi-welded type heat exchanger, one channel for working fluid is welded, and another channel for seawater is sealed by gasket. In this paper, various performance evaluations and experiments were carried out as constructing subminiature pilot plant of the OTEC and compared with the results of cycle analysis. In results, gross power of the turbine shows 20.1kW and cycle efficiency is 1.91% when heat source and heat sink is 26°C, 5°C. For the variation of temperature difference between the heat source and heat sink, when the temperature difference was 21°C, the gross power increased by about 33.3% from that when the temperature difference was 19 °C.

scholarly journals Thermoacoustic Energy Conversion Devices: Novel Insights

2020 ◽  
Vol 77 (2) ◽  
pp. 130-144
Author(s):  
Mahmoud A. Alamir
Keyword(s):  
Energy Conversion ◽  
Operating Conditions ◽  
Geometric Parameters ◽  
Power Sources ◽  
Thermoacoustic Engines ◽  
Design Characteristics ◽  
And Performance ◽  
Optimisation Methods ◽  
Energy Conversion Devices ◽  
Thermoacoustic Refrigeration

Thermoacoustic engines and refrigerators have many advantages. They use environment-friendly working gases, their design is simple, and they can operate quietly. However, they have many design characteristics from geometric parameters and operating conditions. Besides this, they still have low efficiencies and performance. This paper summarises important considerations of the design and presents the state-of-the-art developments in thermoacoustic energy conversion devices. This includes recent studies and designs of the thermoacoustic refrigeration devices towards more efficient thermoacoustic engines and refrigerators. New insights into the design of resonators, the different sources of the power sources, the different stack geometries and working mediums were considered. The challenges that face the development of thermoacoustic devices were also discussed. Far too little attention has been paid to looking at these devices comprehensively. In further research, the use of neural networks and metadata as optimisation methods could be a means of significantly increasing the performance of these devices. There is also abundant room for further progress in enhancing oscillatory heat transfer. Moreover, further recommendations and studies were proposed for a better understanding of the interrelationship between the geometric parameters and operating conditions.

Handicapping Rules and Performance of Sailing Yachts

1974 ◽  
Author(s):  
John S. Letcher
Keyword(s):  
Probability Distribution ◽  
General Problem ◽  
Performance Model ◽  
Operating Conditions ◽  
Optimum Performance ◽  
Average Potential ◽  
Different Types ◽  
New Form ◽  
And Performance ◽  
Performance Estimates

The structure of some past and present rules is discussed and the general problem of optimum performance under the rule is considered. This requires a rational performance model, which would itself form the most equitable rating rule possible under the existing level of technical understanding of mechanics of sailing. The theory of sailboat performance estimates is outlined and surveyed. New theories are presented on the performances of geometrically similar vessels and on the implications of optimum sail trim. Two rational ways are proposed for averaging performance over a probability distribution of operating conditions appropriate to different types of races. The theory suggests a new form for a rule, in which multiple ratings are assigned characterizing average potential speeds in various ranges of operating conditions.

MODERN EQUIPMENT FOR DETERMINING TRACTOR-SPEED PROPERTIES OF THE VEHICLE: CHARACTERISTICS’ ANALYSIS IN LABORATORY CONDITIONS

2019 ◽  
Vol 16 (3) ◽  
pp. 276-289
Author(s):  
N. V. Savenkov ◽  
V. V. Ponyakin ◽  
S. A. Chekulaev ◽  
V. V. Butenko
Keyword(s):  
Environmental Performance ◽  
Operating Conditions ◽  
Special Role ◽  
Development Stages ◽  
Advantages And Disadvantages ◽  
Force Transfer ◽  
Characteristics Analysis ◽  
And Performance ◽  
Loading Devices ◽  
Structural Solutions

Introduction. At present, stands with running drums are widely used for various types of tests. Power stands play a special role. Such stands take the mechanical power from the driving wheels of the car. This simulates the process of movement of the vehicle under operating conditions. Such equipment has various designs, principles of operation and performance. It is also used in tests that are different by purpose, development stages and types: research, control, certification, etc. Therefore, it is necessary in order to determine the traction-speed, fuel-efficient and environmental performance characteristics.Materials and methods. The paper provides the overview of the power stands with running drums, which are widespread on the domestic market. The authors carried out the analysis of the main structural solutions: schemes of force transfer between the wheel and the drum; types of loading devices; transmission layout schemes and features of the control and measuring complex. The authors also considered corresponding advantages and disadvantages, recommended spheres of application, demonstrated parameters and characteristics of the units’ workflow, presented components and equipment.Discussion and conclusions. The authors critically evaluate existing models of stands with running drums. Such information is useful for choosing serial models of stands and for developing technical tasks for designing or upgrading the equipment.

Application of vacuum belt press filters for cane mud filtration and performance comparison with rotary filters

2014 ◽  
pp. 298-301 ◽  
Author(s):  
Arnaud Petit
Keyword(s):  
Electricity Consumption ◽  
Performance Comparison ◽  
Operating Conditions ◽  
Vacuum Filter ◽  
Sugar Mill ◽  
Belt Press ◽  
Vacuum Belt ◽  
And Performance ◽  
Mud Filtration ◽  
The Impact

Bois-Rouge factory, an 8000 t/d cane Reunionese sugarcane mill, has fully equipped its filtration station with vacuum belt press filters since 2010, the first one being installed in 2009. The present study deals with this 3-year experience and discusses operating conditions, electricity consumption, performance and optimisation. The comparison with the more classical rotary drum vacuum filter station of Le Gol sugar mill highlights advantages of vacuum belt press filters: high filtration efficiency, low filter cake mass and sucrose content, low total solids content in filtrate and low power consumption. However, this technology needs a mud conditioning step and requires a large amount of water to improve mud quality, mixing of flocculant and washing of filter belts. The impact on the energy balance of the sugar mill is significant. At Bois-Rouge mill, studies are underway to reduce the water consumption by recycling low d.s. filtrate and by dry cleaning the filter belts.

Current progress and performance improvement of Pt/C catalysts for fuel cells

2020 ◽  
Vol 8 (46) ◽  
pp. 24284-24306
Author(s):  
Xuefeng Ren ◽  
Yiran Wang ◽  
Anmin Liu ◽  
Zhihong Zhang ◽  
Qianyuan Lv ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Fuel Cells ◽  
Fuel Cell ◽  
Energy Conversion ◽  
Performance Improvement ◽  
Electric Energy ◽  
Energy Conversion Efficiency ◽  
High Energy ◽  
Carnot Cycle ◽  
High Energy Conversion Efficiency ◽  
And Performance

Fuel cell is an electrochemical device, which can directly convert the chemical energy of fuel into electric energy, without heat process, not limited by Carnot cycle, high energy conversion efficiency, no noise and pollution.

Flow Coefficient Evaluation of Poppet Valves Used in Reciprocating Compressors for LDPE

2008 ◽  
Author(s):  
Enzo Giacomelli ◽  
Massimo Schiavone ◽  
Fabio Manfrone ◽  
Andrea Raggi
Keyword(s):  
Pressure Drop ◽  
Time Pressure ◽  
Experimental Tests ◽  
Operating Conditions ◽  
Flow Coefficient ◽  
Operating Life ◽  
High Fatigue ◽  
Strongly Connected ◽  
And Performance ◽  
Poppet Valves

Poppet valves have been used for a long time for very high pressure reciprocating compressors, as for example in the case of Low Density Polyethylene. These applications are very critical because the final pressure can reach 350 MPa and the evaluation of the performance of the machines is strongly connected to the proper operation and performance of the valve itself. The arrangement of cylinders requires generally a certain compactness of valve to withstand high fatigue stresses, but at the same time pressure drop and operating life are very important. In recent years the reliability of the machines has been improving over and over and the customers’ needs are very stringent. Therefore the use of poppet valves has been extended to other cases. In general the mentioned applications are heavy duty services and the simulation of the valves require some coefficients to be used in the differential equations, able to describe the movement of plate/disk or poppet and the flow and related pressure drop through the valves. Such coefficients are often determined in an experimental way in order to have a simulation closer to the real operating conditions. For the flow coefficients it is also possible today to use theoretical programs capable of determining the needed values in a quick and economical way. Some investigations have been carried out to determine the values for certain geometries of poppet valves. The results of the theory have been compared with some experimental tests. The good agreement between the various methods indicates the most suitable procedure to be applied in order to have reliable data. The advantage is evident as the time necessary for the theoretical procedure is faster and less expensive. This is of significant importance at the time of the design and also in case of a need to provide timely technical support for the operating behavior of the valves. Particularly for LDPE, the optimization of all the parameters is strongly necessary. The fatigue stresses of cylinder heads and valve bodies have to match in fact with gas passage turbulence and pressure drop, added to the mechanical behavior of the poppet valve components.

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