Title: Analysis and optimisation of an irreversible Brayton refrigeration cycle using exergy concept

Authors: Yih-Feng Su, Cha'o-Kuang Chen

Addresses: Department of Automation and Control Engineering, Far East University, Tainan County, 744, Taiwan, Republic of China. ' Department of Mechanical Engineering, National Cheng-Kung University, Tainan City, 701, Taiwan, Republic of China

Abstract: An irreversible Brayton refrigeration cycle has been analysed by exergy method. The rate of total destroyed exergy is considered as an objective index. The purpose is to minimise the destroyed exergy. By the assumption of defining the recovery factor, the objective index is obtained. Due to the existence of irreversibilities, the compressor and expansion efficiencies are introduced. It is found that the minimum value of the rate of total destroyed exergy takes place when the isentropic temperature ratio is chosen as a reasonable minimum. The results can help in minimising of exergy destruction while one is operating the system.

Keywords: exergy destruction; irreversibilities; Brayton refrigeration cycle.

DOI: 10.1504/IJEX.2008.019116

International Journal of Exergy, 2008 Vol.5 No.4, pp.470 - 486

Published online: 29 Jun 2008 *

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