Prime movers

Abstract

This chapter provides an introduction to the prime movers and power equipment used in combined cooling, heating, and power (CCHP) systems, including steam turbines, gas turbines, internal combustion engines, Stirling engines, and fuel cells. The power subsystems are the driving source of the power supply system; they are used to generate electricity or provide mechanical power directly. The chapter includes a discussion of the types and important performance parameters of steam engines and gas turbines; the characteristics and basic types of gas-steam combined- cycle systems; the working principles of internal combustion engines; the basic profiles of diesel, gasoline, and gas internal combustion engines; the working principles, characteristics, and main applications of Stirling engines; the working principles, type, development, and research status of fuel cells; and applications in CCHP systems. Through the information in this chapter, we hope to provide readers with a full understanding of the power equipment used in CCHP systems.