This thesis presents numerical modelling and analysis of a solar Organic Rankine Cycle
(ORC) for electricity generation. A regression based approach is used for the working fluid
property calculations. Models of the unit&rsquo / s sub-components (pump, evaporator, expander
and condenser) are also established. Steady and transient models are developed and
analyzed because the unit is considered to work with stable (i.e. solar + boiler) or variable
(i.e. solar only) heat input. The unit&rsquo / s heat exchangers (evaporator and condenser) have
been identified as critical for the applicable method of analysis (steady or transient). The
considered heat resource into the ORC is in the form of solar heated water, which varies
between 80-95 0C at a range of mass flow rates between 2-12 kg/s. Simulation results of
steady state operation using the developed model shows a maximum power output of
around 40 kW. In the defined operation range / refrigerant mass flow rate, hot water mass
flow rate and hot water temperature in the system are identified as critical parameters to
optimize the power production and the cycle efficiency. The potential benefit of controlling
these critical parameters is demonstrated for reliable ORC operation and optimum power
production. It is also seen that simulation of the unit&rsquo / s dynamics using the transient model is
imperative when variable heat input is involved, due to the fact that maximum energy
recovery is the aim with any given level of heat input.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:METU/oai:etd.lib.metu.edu.tr:http://etd.lib.metu.edu.tr/upload/12614367/index.pdf |
| Date | 01 July 2012 |
| Creators | Bamgbopa, Musbaudeen Oladiran |
| Contributors | Uzgoren, Eray |
| Publisher | METU |
| Source Sets | Middle East Technical Univ. |
| Language | English |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | M.S. Thesis |
| Format | text/pdf |
| Rights | To liberate the content for public access |
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