Hyung-Kee Yoon

Simulation of an Absorption Power Cycle for Maximizing the Power Output of Low-Temperature Geothermal Power Generation

In this study, an absorption power cycle, which can be used for a low-temperature heat source driven power cycle such as geothermal power generation, was investigated and optimized in terms of power by the simulation method. A steady-state simulation model was adopted to analyze and optimize its performance. Simulations were carried out for the given heat source and sink inlet temperatures, and the given flow rates were based on the typical power plant thermal-capacitance-rate ratio. The cycle performance was evaluated for two independent variables: the ammonia fraction at the separator inlet and the maximum cycle pressure. Results showed that the absorption power cycle can generate electricity up to about 14 kW per 1 kg/s of heat source when the heat source temperature, heat sink temperature, and thermal-capacitance-rate ratio are 100°C, 20°C, and 5, respectively.