Performance analysis of an atkinson cycle with variable specific heats of the working fluid under maximum efficient power conditions

Abstract

The efficient power, defined as the product of the power output and efficiency, is taken as the objective for performance analysis and optimization of an ideal air-standard Atkinson cycle with variable specific heats of the working fluid. Performance analysis is carried out in the viewpoint of finite-time thermodynamics or entropy generation minimization. Results obtained are compared with those obtained by using the maximum power (MP) and MP density (MPD) criteria, and the advantages and disadvantages of a maximum efficient power (MEP) design are analyzed. The result showed that the engine designs at MEP conditions have an advantage of smaller size over those designed at MP conditions and are more efficient than those designed at MP and MPD conditions. Moreover, engines designed at MEP conditions require lesser pressure ratio than those designed at MPD conditions. © The Author 2012.