Different states of a Carnot Cycle

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SUMMARY

The discussion centers on analyzing a Carnot cycle using water as the working fluid, with specific parameters of TH = 475 K and TC = 300 K. Key calculations include determining the pressure, quality, heat addition and rejection rates, mechanical power, and thermal efficiency of the cycle. The participants emphasize the importance of adhering to the saturation limits of the p-V diagram, noting that the cycle must operate within the 0-100% quality range. The feasibility of the cycle is questioned, highlighting the need for careful configuration to remain within vaporization lines.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of Carnot cycle principles
  • Familiarity with steam tables and thermodynamic properties
  • Knowledge of p-V diagrams and quality of steam
  • Basic thermodynamics, including heat transfer and efficiency calculations
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the derivation of thermal efficiency for Carnot cycles
  • Learn to use steam tables for various working fluids
  • Explore the implications of quality in phase change processes
  • Investigate the design considerations for closed-loop thermodynamic cycles
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Students and professionals in mechanical engineering, thermodynamics, and energy systems, particularly those focusing on heat engines and cycle efficiency analysis.

cheme2019
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Homework Statement


A Carnot engine with water as the working fluid operates with a water recirculation rate of 1 kg/s. For TH = 475 K and TC = 300 K, determine:
a. The pressure of each state
b. The quality of each state
c. The rate of heat addition
d. The rate of heat rejection
e. The mechanical power for each of the four steps
f. The thermal efficiency of the cycle
g. Is the cycle feasible? Why or why not?

Homework Equations


Steam Tables, TS diagram.

The Attempt at a Solution


I just need to get over the first hurdle, then I can finish the problem..
I assumed at the 1st point, the quality of the mixture is 0 (sat'D liquid). Using T= 202 deg C and the steam tables, I get
P = 1.55 MPa
V= .1159 m^3/kg
U = 851 kJ/kg
H = 853 kJ/kg
S = 2.34 kJ/kgK
I know at the 2nd state, the temperature is the same, and that the quality should be 1 (sat'D vapor), however this would imply that the pressure didn't change, which according to a PV diagram isn't the case. Can someone help guide me in the right direction? Thanks!
 
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cheme2019 said:

Homework Statement


A Carnot engine with water as the working fluid operates with a water recirculation rate of 1 kg/s. For TH = 475 K and TC = 300 K, determine:
a. The pressure of each state
b. The quality of each state
c. The rate of heat addition
d. The rate of heat rejection
e. The mechanical power for each of the four steps
f. The thermal efficiency of the cycle
g. Is the cycle feasible? Why or why not?
Until someone wiser responds:
I agree, you have to make an assumption about the thermal coordinates of one of the 4 corners on the p-V diagram. And I see no reason not to go with your choice. I also believe the cycle has to operate within the 0-100% quality section of the p-V diagram, i.e. the water is never saturated liquid nor superheated vapor. Every reversible cycle need not observe these limits but as I see it a Carnot cycle, by definition, does.

So the problem is can we configure a closed cycle remaining within the confines of the vaporization lines (the saturation curves).

The area of the closed path is the work done per kg of water per cycle. Since there is 1 cycle/sec. the area is also the power output of the engine.Since we have exactly 1 kg of water we can graph specific volume on the x axis.

I will look at this further if I can but perhaps you can take up the problem yourself at this point if you agree with the foregoing, absent other and better posts.
 

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