Exergetic Efficiency Optimization for an Irreversible Carnot Heat Engine

Abstract

AbstractIn this paper, an exergetic efficiency optimization method that combines the concept of exergy and finite-time thermodynamic theory is developed to analyze an irreversible heat engine. With the total thermal conductance constraint, the analytical solutions of optimal allocation of thermal conductance and the corresponding maximum exergetic efficiency, thermal efficiency, as well as operating temperatures of hot and cold sides are obtained under a fixed overall heat supply rate. The results show that the exergetic efficiency optimization method can effectively analyze an irreversible heat engine.