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Parametric analysis of a semi-closed-loop linear joule engine generator using argon and oxy-hydrogen combustion

Author

Listed:
  • Ngwaka, Ugochukwu
  • Wu, Dawei
  • Happian-Smith, Julian
  • Jia, Boru
  • Smallbone, Andrew
  • Diyoke, Chidiebere
  • Roskilly, Anthony Paul

Abstract

The paper introduces a novel semi-closed-loop Linear Joule Engine Generator (LJEG) using argon as the major working fluid and oxy-hydrogen combustion for heat addition. The linear compressor and expander in the LJEG apply double-acting piston configuration to maximise power density, and an oxy-hydrogen-argon reactor has ultra-high heat transfer efficiency and emits ultimate zero carbon, NOx, and particulate emissions. The proposed LJEG is developed from a previous lab-scale LJEG prototype using air as the working fluid. A comparison study demonstrates the advantages of the new conceptual design; substituting air with argon as the major working fluid resulted in increased system speed, decreased indicated power, and over 60% indicated efficiency improvement. A further parametric analysis was conducted using a validated model to reveal the influence of different intake and exhaust valve timing, compressor/expander diameter ratio, electric load, and operating temperature. The analysis shows that the system efficiency decreases with the extended intake duration, but it could be improved with the extension of expander exhaust duration. Power output increases with longer expander intake duration, however, its relationship with diameter ratio of compressor and expander is dependent on adopted expander exhaust valve timing, a peak power output of 4.7 kW could be achieved at expander intake temperature of 1073 K. System operating temperature for the optimal performance is also highly dependent on valve timings. Piston stroke length is adversely affected by an increase in compressor/expander diameter ratio and operating temperature. Peak system efficiencies of 40% and 60% could be achieved when the compressor/expander diameter ratio is 0.70 and 0.93, respectively.

Suggested Citation

  • Ngwaka, Ugochukwu & Wu, Dawei & Happian-Smith, Julian & Jia, Boru & Smallbone, Andrew & Diyoke, Chidiebere & Roskilly, Anthony Paul, 2021. "Parametric analysis of a semi-closed-loop linear joule engine generator using argon and oxy-hydrogen combustion," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 217(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:energy:v:217:y:2021:i:c:s0360544220324646
    DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2020.119357
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Moss, R. W. & Roskilly, A. P. & Nanda, S. K., 2005. "Reciprocating Joule-cycle engine for domestic CHP systems," Applied Energy, Elsevier, vol. 80(2), pages 169-185, February.
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    3. Ngwaka, Ugochukwu & Jia, Boru & Lawrence, Christopher & Wu, Dawei & Smallbone, Andrew & Roskilly, Anthony Paul, 2019. "The characteristics of a Linear Joule Engine Generator operating on a dry friction principle," Applied Energy, Elsevier, vol. 237(C), pages 49-59.
    4. Ngangué, Max Ndamé & Stouffs, Pascal, 2020. "Dynamic simulation of an original Joule cycle liquid pistons hot air Ericsson engine," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 190(C).
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    Cited by:

    1. Li, Mingqiang & Ngwaka, Ugochukwu & Wu, Dawei & Wang, Zhongcheng & Korbekandi, Ramin Moeini & Baker, Nick & Tsolakis, Athanasios, 2024. "Performance evaluation of linear variable valve actuation for a linear engine generator," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 298(C).
    2. Li, Mingqiang & Ngwaka, Ugochukwu & Moeini Korbekandi, Ramin & Baker, Nick & Wu, Dawei & Tsolakis, Athanasios, 2023. "A closed-loop linear engine generator using inert gases: A performance and exergy study," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 281(C).
    3. Yuan, Chenheng & Peng, Shizhuo & Zhou, Lifu, 2023. "Multi-field coupling effect of injection on dynamics and thermodynamics of a linear combustion engine generator with slow compression and fast expansion," Energy, Elsevier, vol. 270(C).

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