Energy Systems 2012/2013

Introduction: Overview of energy sources, energy conversion systems, national and world energy needs.Analysis of energy conversion systems based on 1st and 2nd Law of Thermodynamics. Thermodynamic cycles: external and internal irreversibilities, definition of Hirn and Joule cycles.

Steam power plants. Analysis of “ideal” and real thermodynamic cycles. Choice of operating parameters and techniques to improve plant’s efficiency: steam reheating, regenerative feed heating. Plant layouts.

Gas turbine power plants. Analysis of ideal and real thermodynamic cycles. Choice of operating parameters and techniques to improve plant’s efficiency: regenerative heat exchanger, reheaters, intercoolers. Plant layout of gas turbines.

Combined cycle power plants. Analysis of “topping” (gas turbine) and “bottoming” sections, efficiency, power ratio between gas and steam turbine, plant layout. Thermodynamic optimization of bottoming sections with variable temperature heat input.

Internal combustion reciprocating engines. Classification; ideal and real thermodynamic cycles; power output, mechanical efficiency, volumetric efficiency and engine operating parameters; air intake system; supercharging and turbocharging; fuel metering in SI engines; fuel injection in CI engines; operating characteristics and performance maps; load matching: power generation and ground propulsion; pollutant formation and control.

Hydroelectric power generation. Hydraulic turbines: classification, operating parameters, performance characteristics, cavitation. Hydroelectric plant layouts. Pumped storage hydroelectricity.