Heat recovery for next Generation of hybrid vehicles: Simulation and Design of a Rankine cycle system

Abstract

Improvements of vehicle effectiveness thanks to hybridisation are limited by the engine efficiency. In this way, the use of additional energy converters pave the way to a next generation of hybrid vehicles. After taking stock of the main sources of recoverable energy of a IC engine, this paper focuses on the Rankine cycle solution. This parametric study relies on a dedicated 0D/1D simulation tool to emphasize the effect of design and operating parameters on heat recovery potential and limitations. So, interactions between working fluid properties, pressure level in boiler and condenser, flow rate, component arrangement and engine operating conditions are discussed.