Spreadsheet calculations of thermodynamic properties

Abstract

A thermodynamic property calculation tool has been developed based on the Excel™ Mechanical Engineering at California State University, Northridge (CSUN) Aeronautics at the U.S. Air Force Academy Mechanical Engineering at CSUN spreadsheet program. This tool can be used to determine individual state points by a graphical user interface (GUI) calculator. In addition, spreadsheet cell formulas and Visual Basic function calls can also be used to build models of thermodynamic systems. The resulting model can be used to show the effects of parameter changes on overall results such as cycle efficiency, power production, refrigeration load and coefficient of performance. In addition, the Excel™ GoalSeek or Solver tools can be used to solve systems of equations or to determine system parameters that give a constrained optimum condition. The software is available at no cost.