Aerodynamic Investigation of a High Pressure Ratio Turbo-Expander for Organic Rankine Cycle Applications

TitleAerodynamic Investigation of a High Pressure Ratio Turbo-Expander for Organic Rankine Cycle Applications
Publication TypeConference Proceedings
Year of Publication2012
AuthorsMarconcini M, Rubechini F, Arnone A, Scotti Del Greco A, Biagi R
Conference NameASME Turbo Expo 2012: Turbine Technical Conference and Exposition
Volume8: Turbomachinery, Parts A, B, and C
Pagination847-856
PublisherASME
Conference LocationCopenhagen, Denmark, 11-15 June
ISBN Number978-0-7918-4474-8
Accession NumberWOS:000335720900078
Other NumbersScopus 2-s2.0-84881150239
KeywordsORC, Real Gas, Turbo-Expander
Abstract

The design of radial-inflow turbines usually relies on one-dimensional or mean-line methods. While these approaches have so far proven to be quite effective, they can not assist the designer in coping with some important issues, such as mechanical integrity and complex flow features. Turbo-expanders are in general characterized by fully three-dimensional flow fields, strongly influenced by viscous effects and passage curvature. In particular, for high pressure ratio applications, such as in organic Rankine cycles, supersonic flow conditions are likely to be reached, thus involving the formation of a shock pattern which governs the interaction between nozzle and wheel components. The nozzle shock waves are periodically chopped by the impeller leading edge, and the resulting unsteady interaction is of primary concern for both mechanical integrity and aerodynamic performance. This work is focused on the aerodynamic issues, and addresses some key aspects of the CFD modelling in the numerical analysis of turbo-expanders. Calculations were carried out by adopting models with increasing level of complexity, from the classical steady-state approach to the full-stage, time-accurate one. Results are compared in details, and the impact of the computational model on the aerodynamic performance estimation is discussed.

Notes

ASME paper GT2012-69409.

URLhttp://proceedings.asmedigitalcollection.asme.org/proceeding.aspx?articleid=1695157
DOI10.1115/GT2012-69409
Refereed DesignationRefereed