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

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 Solution

3.46 Rating (162 Votes )

There are 3 Steps involved in it

1 Expert Approved Answer
Step: 1 Unlock

To determine the operating conditions corresponding to the minimumweight radiator for a given turbine power we need to optimize the Rankine cycle by v... View full answer

blur-text-image
Question Has Been Solved by an Expert!

Get step-by-step solutions from verified subject matter experts

Step: 2 Unlock
Step: 3 Unlock

Students Have Also Explored These Related Thermodynamics Fundamentals Questions!