Performance analysis of a generalized radiative heat engine based on new maximum efficient power approach

Abstract

The efficient power, defined as the product of power output and efficiency, of an engine is taken as the objective for performance analysis and optimization of an internally and externally irreversible radiative Carnot heat engine model in the viewpoint of finite time thermodynamics or entropy generation minimization. Results obtained are compared with those obtained by using maximum power (MP) and MP density (MPD) criteria, and the advantages and disadvantages of a maximum efficient power (MEP) design are analysed. The result showed that the engine design at MEP conditions has an advantage of smaller size and is more efficient than those designed at MP and MPD conditions. © The Author 2009. Published by Oxford University Press.