Abstract and subjects
The thermodynamic optimization of differing Reverse Brayton Refrigeration (RBR) cycle configurations is presented in this study. These cycle configurations include: Conventional 1-stage compression cycle; Conventional 2-stage compression cycle; 1-stage compression Modified cycle with intermediate cooling of the recuperator using an auxiliary cooler; and an Integrated 2-stage expansion RBR cycle. For high pressure ratio applications, multi-stage compressors with intercooling are considered. Analytical solutions for the conventional cycles are developed including thermal and fluid flow irreversibilities of the recuperators and all heat exchangers in addition to the compression and expansion processes. Exergy analysis is performed and the exergy destruction of different components of the RBR cycles for different configurations is presented and the effects of important system parameters on performance are investigated. Thermodynamic optimization of the cycles with intermediate cooling of the recuperator is included. Effects of the 2nd law/exergy efficiency of the auxiliary cooler on the total system efficiencies are presented.
•Optimization techniques are provided for three RBR cycle configurations.•Analytical solutions and results are provided for three RBR cycle configurations.•The limitations of low-temperature conventional RBR cycles are discussed.•The advantages of split-recuperator modified and integrated RBR cycles are described.•The use of exergy cycle diagrams and destruction charts is presented.