This paper presents the experimental testing of relatively cost-effective expanders in an organic Rankine cycle (ORC) to produce power from low-grade energy. Gerotor and scroll expanders were the two types of expanders tested to determine their applicability in producing power from low-grade energy. The results of the experimental testing showed that both types of expanders were good candidates to be used in an ORC. The gerotor and scroll expanders tested produced 2.07 kW and 2.96 kW, and had isentropic efficiencies of 0.85 and 0.83, respectively. Also the paper presents results of an analytical model produced that predicted improved cycle efficiency with certain changes. One change was the flow rate of the working fluid in the cycle was properly matched with the inlet pocket volume and rotational speed of the expander. Also, the volumetric expansion ratio of the expander was matched to the specific volume ratio of the working fluid (R-123) across the expander. The model incorporated the efficiencies of the expanders and pump obtained during experimental testing, and combined two expanders in series to match the specific volume ratio of the working fluid. The model determined the power produced by the expanders, and subtracted the power required by the working fluid pump and the condenser fan. From that, the model calculated the net power produced to be 6271 W and the overall energy efficiency of the cycle to be 7.7%. When the ORC was simulated to be integrated with the exhaust of a stationary engine, the exergetic efficiency, exergy destroyed, and reduction in diesel fuel while still producing the same amount of power during 2500 h of operation were 22. 1%, 22,169 W, and 4,012 L (1060 U.S. gal), respectively. Consequently, the model presents a very realistic design based on results from experimental testing to cost-effectively use low-grade energy.
Heat transfer measurements are presented for free convection in a vertical annulus wherein the inner cylinder is at constant surface heat flux and the outer cylinder is at constant temperature. Overall heat transfer data are corrected for thermal radiation in the annulus. Rayleigh numbers span the conduction, transition and boundary layer regimes of flow, and average heat transfer coefficients are obtained with air and helium as the working fluids. The range of Rayleigh number is 103 < Ra < 2.3 × 106; the radius ratio is 4.33; and the aspect ratio (cylinder length divided by annular gap) is 27.6. Energy transferred by thermal radiation varies with Rayleigh number and working fluid. With air, thermal radiation can account for up to 50 percent of the heat transfer. With helium, radiation can account for up to 30 percent of the heat transfer rate. The results of the study provide data relevant to the design and performance assessment of spent fuel packages as part of the National Waste Terminal Storage Program for nuclear waste isolation.
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