Optimal Performance Characteristics of Subcritical Simple Irreversible Organic Rankine Cycle

Based on the theory of finite time thermodynamics, a subcritical simple irreversible organic Rankine cycle(SSIORC) model considering heat transfer loss and internal irreversible losses is established in this paper. The total heat transfer surface area is taken as a constraint, and R245fa is adopted as working fluid of the cycle in the performance optimization. The evaporator heat transfer surface area and mass flow rate of the working fluid are optimized to obtain the maximum power output and thermal efficiency of the SSIORC, respectively. In addition, the influences of the internal irreversibilities on the optimal performances are also investigated. The results show that when the evaporator heat transfer surface area is varied, the relationship between power output and thermal efficiency is a loop-shaped curve, and there exist maximum power output and thermal efficiency points, respectively. However, the two maximum points are very close to each other. When the mass flow rate of the working fluid is varied, the relationship between power output and thermal efficiency is a parabolic-like curve. With the decreases of expander and pump irreversible losses, the performances of the irreversible SSORC are close to those of the endoreversible SSORC with the only loss of heat transfer loss.