Experimental investigation of a kW scale absorption power cycle with LiBr solution

Absorption cycles have been proposed not only for cooling but also for power generation. Most common is then Kalina cycle utilizing water-ammonia mixture working fluid. Other working fluids theoretically may provide thermodynamic benefits, have only rarely been examined experimentally. This work reports on, to the authors’ knowledge, the world’s first absorption power cycle using salt solution (here aqueous solution of LiBr), known so far only from absorption cooling. The system with a design power output of around 300 W features solutions such as a nylon 3D printed turbine or measurement of temperature glide during phase change in the heat exchangers. This work is focused on an analysis of the experimental performance of the system. The measured turbine efficiency reached 25% with a potential for much higher values with better design. Over the range of explored conditions, if 65% expander performance was assumed, the maximal cycle efficiency could be around 4.5% and utilization efficiency 0.5%.     «

Absorption cycles have been proposed not only for cooling but also for power generation. Most common is then Kalina cycle utilizing water-ammonia mixture working fluid. Other working fluids theoretically may provide thermodynamic benefits, have only rarely been examined experimentally. This work reports on, to the authors’ knowledge, the world’s first absorption power cycle using salt solution (here aqueous solution of LiBr), known so far only from absorption cooling. The system with a design p...     »