Theoretical modeling of a steam power cycle using an interactive computational tool

Abstract

This paper presentsan energetic and exergetic analysis for ageneration of turbine work according to the variation of the pressure in the condenser regenerative Rankine cycle, implementing an educational graphical user interface known as Power Cycle version 2.0; that is used as a pedagogical strategy in thefield ofengineering education. The mains objectives were, analyzethe efficiency of first and second thermodynamic law, and the generation of turbine work according to the variation of thecondenser pressure, at three different temperatures in the boiler, as well as analyzing the components of the system to identify and quantify where the exergy destruction was maximum. According to the results in the cases studied, the percentage ratio of the exergydestruction to the total exergy destruction was found to be maximum in the boiler 62.18%, then the turbine 22.79%, and finally 15.03% in the pumps, the heater and the condenser. On the other hand, the maximum calculated thermal efficiency was 38.34%, while the maximum exergetic efficiency was 62.81%. A significant increase in efficiency of the cycle is obtained by decreasing the pressure in the condenser.