What are the key calculations for a power plant's efficiency and energy loss?

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SUMMARY

The discussion focuses on calculating the efficiency and energy loss of a power plant operating with a heat source temperature of 900°C and a heat sink temperature of 25°C. The maximum efficiency of the power cycle is determined using the Carnot efficiency formula, yielding a theoretical maximum of 97.22%. Given an output of 210 MW, the power input is calculated to be approximately 600 MW. Energy loss from the cycle is assessed, and the fuel consumption flow rate for natural gas, with a Gross calorific value of 39 MJ/m³, is derived. The actual efficiency of the power plant is noted at 35%, with energy losses primarily attributed to irreversibilities and heat dissipation.

PREREQUISITES
  • Understanding of thermodynamic cycles, specifically the Carnot cycle
  • Familiarity with power generation concepts and efficiency calculations
  • Knowledge of energy flow diagrams, particularly Sankey diagrams
  • Basic principles of fuel calorific values and combustion efficiency
NEXT STEPS
  • Study the Carnot efficiency formula and its applications in thermal cycles
  • Learn how to create Sankey diagrams for energy flow visualization
  • Research the impact of irreversibilities on power plant efficiency
  • Explore natural gas combustion and its implications for fuel consumption calculations
USEFUL FOR

Engineers, energy analysts, and students in the fields of mechanical engineering, thermodynamics, and energy management will benefit from this discussion.

Grigoris_Da
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Hello can somebody please help me on that problem?

If heat source and heat sink temperature of a power plant is 900C and 25C respectively, then
i) Calculate the maximum efficiency of the power cycle
ii) Calculate the power input if the output is 210MW
iii) Calculate energy loss from cycle
iv) Draw the energy flow diagram (sankey diagram) of the plant
v) Calculate the fuel consumption flow rate if the plant operates on natural gas with Gross calorific value of 39MJ/m3
vi) If the actual efficiency of the power plant is 35%, then explain where the energy is lost.
 
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