Turbomachinery for Supercritical CO2 Power Cycles

Abstract

Supercritical CO2 (S-CO2) power cycles offer high plant efficiencies and beneficial economics for variety of heat sources. Nuclear, solar, waste heat, energy storage, and clean coal combustion are some of the applications under consideration for S-CO2 power production. Different types of cycles, topping and bottoming, have been conceptualized based on the heat source. These cycles have the possibility of being economically beneficial and competitive against incumbent steam cycles, primarily due to reduced material costs. Often the turbo-machinery capabilities are overlooked during the cycle design process, or are not well understood. A method and guideline for turbo machinery selection is offered. Several examples are offered to give the S-CO2 cycle designer to judge the compatibility of the turbo-machinery with the overall system including type, size, and efficiency. The guideline includes turbo machinery design limitations. Understanding the turbo machinery implications relative to cycle design will allow the system designer to optimize the plant for efficiency and positive economic outcome.