Recuperated Supercritical Carbon Dioxide Brayton Power Cycle System
Critical Need:
Project Innovation + Advantages:
Thar Energy will develop a next-generation metallic compact recuperator, a type of heat exchanger, capable of stable and cost effective operation at 800°C (1562°F) and above 80 bar (1160 psi). A metallic superalloy capable of withstanding high temperature and pressure will be employed to fabricate the heat exchanger using a novel stacked sheet manufacturing technique. The cost-effective heat exchanger design could enable design enhancement with improved structural integrity and thermal performances for high-efficiency, modular, and cost-competitive recuperated supercritical carbon dioxide (sCO2) Brayton power cycle systems. Thar Energy will also develop and test an efficient, cost-effective, and sustainable power generation system. The new system will use its developed recuperator and novel high temperature components, such as a high-temperature primary heat exchanger and high-efficiency reciprocating expander capable of operations above 800°C and 300 bar.
Potential Impact:
HITEMMP projects will enable a revolutionary new class of heat exchangers and innovative approaches to advanced manufacturing with applications for a wide range of commercial and industrial energy producers and consumers.
Security:
High performance, efficient heat exchangers would increase industrial productivity, supporting domestic industries. The developed manufacturing techniques for high temperature materials could strengthen U.S. leadership in advanced manufacturing.
Environment:
More efficient electricity generation and industrial processes could significantly reduce emissions by enabling more efficient operations.