Exergetic analysis of reverse Brayton cryocooler with different turbine arrangements for HTS power cables. (April 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Dhillon, Aman Kumar; Ghosh, Parthasarathi
• Is Part Of: Cryogenics. Volume 115(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-04
• Subjects: Reverse Brayton -- Modifications -- Thermodynamic -- Exergy -- Power cable; Low temperature engineering -- Periodicals; Low temperature research -- Periodicals; 536.56
• DOI: 10.1016/j.cryogenics.2021.103262
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0011-2275

Abstract

Highlights: Six novel modified configurations of reverse Brayton cycle. Comprehensive exergy analysis of a refrigeration system. The best modified configurations are PED, PES-2 and SE-1 RBC, respectively. The PED and PES-2 modifications have 24.72 and 24.30% exergy efficiency. The thermal size of heat exchangers is 76.95% larger for the PES-2 and 2.87% smaller for the PED as compared to basic RBC. Abstract: The cooling systems of High-Temperature Superconducting (HTS) power transmission cables are unable to achieve the desired performance as prescribed in the cryogenic road map. Reverse Brayton cycle based Cryocooler (RBC) has been identified as a refrigerator that has the potential to achieve the desired performance for higher cooling load demand. In this article, an exergy analysis of the basic Reverse Brayton Cycle (RBC) and its modifications has been investigated for identification of appropriate cycle configuration that will meet the demand for practical applications of HTS cables. The modifications in the basic cycle are carried out with different arrangements of turbines such as parallel or series expansion that may increase the exergy efficiency of the cooling system with a heat load of 10 kW @ 65 K. The analysis is carried out using Aspen HYSYS V8.6, and helium is used as a working fluid. The effects of important process parameters such as pressure ratio, compressor inlet pressure, and flow diversion on the performance are investigated and are used to optimize these cycles. The best cycle configuration based on RBC is identified and recommended based on the results of the analysis.