Thermodynamic cycles applied to gas turbines

In summary, the gas turbine cycle has inefficiencies which cause the temperatures at the outlet to be higher than they would be under isentropic conditions. However, if the same changes are shown on a P-V chart, there would still be positive net work output.
  • #1
LaxeyT
7
0
This is about the basic thermodynamic cycle of the gas turbine (i.e. Brayton or Joule cycle), consisting of adiabatic compression, heat addition at constant pressure, adiabatic expansion, and heat rejection at constant pressure, and the standard ways of analysing this through Pressure-Volume (P-V) and Temperature-Entropy (T-s) charts.

Real gas turbine cycles have inefficiencies in the compression and turbine expansion processes, which increase the temperatures at outlet from these components, compared with the same pressure rise (or fall) under isentropic conditions. I am trying to understand a contradiction - engineering consideration of a gas turbine would show that when the efficiencies of one or both components drops sufficiently that the turbine work output is equal to the compressor input, there is no net work output (the device would only just run).

However, if the same changes are shown on a P-V chart, there would still be positive net work output (based on the net work done around the cycle is ʃp.dv (the area under the P-V chart) around the cycle). Is it valid to use a P-V chart to show this?

Equivalently, and more straighforwardly, a Carnot cycle (a sequence of isothermal and adiabatic processes) produces positive net work output, but when analysed like a gas turbine on a T-s chart produces zero net work output..?
 
Engineering news on Phys.org
  • #2
Air standard Carnot cycle.

I would like to simplify my question:-

For the Carnot cycle:- Net work output =(ΔT)(ΔS), where ΔT = temp difference between source and sink temperatures and ΔS = entropy difference between adiabatic stages. This can be re-phrased in terms of Ps and Ts. Graphically, it is the area enclosed by the cycle on a T-S chart and also the area enclosed on a P-V chart.

In a 'real' implementation of a Carnot heat engine operating with air in a closed cycle, using turbomachinery (compressors and turbines), the net work would be extracted from the turbine, like in a Joule cycle gas turbine. However, if the net work is estimated like in a gas turbine, i.e. it is directly proportional to the difference in temperature differences across the compressor and turbine, this would be zero - no net work, but the cycle shows there is net work -can anyone explain this?

Thanks.
 

1. What is a thermodynamic cycle?

A thermodynamic cycle is a sequence of thermodynamic processes that occur in a system, ultimately resulting in the system returning to its initial state. This allows for the transfer of energy in the form of work or heat.

2. How are thermodynamic cycles applied to gas turbines?

Thermodynamic cycles are used to analyze and improve the performance of gas turbines. The cycles involve the intake of air, compression, combustion, expansion, and exhaust, all of which are essential processes in a gas turbine engine.

3. What is the efficiency of a gas turbine cycle?

The efficiency of a gas turbine cycle is determined by its thermal efficiency, which is the ratio of the net work output to the heat input. The higher the thermal efficiency, the more efficient the gas turbine cycle is at converting energy into work.

4. What are some common types of gas turbine cycles?

Some common types of gas turbine cycles include the Brayton cycle, the Rankine cycle, and the combined cycle. The Brayton cycle is the most commonly used cycle in gas turbines, while the Rankine cycle is often used in steam turbines. The combined cycle combines both the Brayton and Rankine cycles for improved efficiency.

5. How do thermodynamic cycles impact the performance of gas turbines?

Thermodynamic cycles play a crucial role in the performance of gas turbines. By optimizing these cycles, engineers can improve the efficiency and power output of gas turbines, resulting in more cost-effective and environmentally friendly energy production.

Similar threads

Replies
4
Views
112
Replies
8
Views
1K
Replies
2
Views
495
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • Mechanical Engineering
Replies
2
Views
1K
  • Mechanical Engineering
Replies
13
Views
1K
  • Mechanical Engineering
Replies
1
Views
3K
  • Engineering and Comp Sci Homework Help
Replies
4
Views
1K
Replies
5
Views
645
  • Mechanical Engineering
Replies
8
Views
795
Back
Top