25-5 Kwe Microturbine Design Aspects

Abstract

In concert with the growing emphasis placed on distributed power generation there will be a need, in the first decade of the 21st century, for a compact thermal energy system capable of providing the total energy needs of individual homes. A natural gas fueled cogeneration microturbine with ultra low emissions will meet this need. The results of a study to assess the thermal and economic aspects of microturbines in the 25 to 5 Kwe range are presented. It was determined that with current state of art component peak performance levels, and metallic materials, thermal efficiency goals of 27 and 22.5% respectively at sea level standard day conditions are attainable. Higher overall thermal efficiencies of 60% are attainable with a microturbine combined with a fuel cell, and approaching 80% combined with exhaust fired boilers. Development of a low cost natural gas combustor injection method, combined with a low cost high effectiveness recuperator were considered mandatory for market acceptance.