A power system for space applications is based on a Rankine cycle using potassium as the working
Question:
A power system for space applications is based on a Rankine cycle using potassium as the working fluid. The working fluid at the turbine inlet is at 1200 K and 2.0 bar, and is fixed. The pump inlet is saturated liquid and the pump work is negligible. The turbine efficiency is 0.7. In space the condenser must be a radiator, and weight is of crucial importance. Determine the operating conditions corresponding to minimum-weight radiator for a given turbine power. Calculate and plot the ratio of radiator area to power output (m2/kW) versus the condenser temperature. Try a condenser temperature range from 800 to 1100 K. The thermal power discharged by the condenser is radiated according to the equation Qc = σT4A, where A is the radiator area, and σ is the physical constant σ = 5.68 × 10−8 W/(m2 · K4).
Step by Step Answer:
Thermodynamics Fundamentals And Engineering Applications
ISBN: 9780521862738
1st Edition
Authors: William C. Reynolds, Piero Colonna