ENHANCED ENERGY CONVERSION SYSTEM FROM A FLUID HEAT STREAM

摘要

An improved method and system to convert thermal energy into electrical ener gy using an indirect-fired Brayton cycle is presented. A recuperator within the cycle transfers heat from the working fluid exiting the turbine into the working fluid exiting th e compressor. Water is injected into the gaseous working fluid after the recuperator and, optionally, before the recuperator to (1) extract additional thermal energy from a fluid heat stream, (2) increase the mass of working fluid passing through the turbine, (3) improve recuperation of heat, (4) allow use of a higher operating pressure, (5) redu ce parasitic compression work, and (6) increase the ratio of turbine world to compressor work. This improved method and system will increase overall efficiency by recovering additional thermal energy from a fluid heat stream and increasing conversion efficiency within the cycle. Means to extend the method and system by closing the conversion loop are also presented.