Design and optimisation of a small-scale tri-generation system

Abstract

This paper investigates design and theoretical analysis of a small-scale tri-generation system. The tri-generation system was made of a CHP unit and a heat-driven ejector cooling system. A TRNSYS mathematical tool was developed to simulate all components of the system in a dynamic process to understand the influence of various operating parameters. Different modes of operations were also considered including using a proportion of heat and/or electrical power output from the CHP to drive the cooling cycle to better assess the energetic and environmental performance of the system. Results of the simulation showed that fuel savings of about 15% could be achieved compared to using separate sources for heat, power and cooling.