A Detailed Analysis of Ideal Rankine Steam Cycle

Abstract

In this theoretical work, the ideal Rankine cycle using water vapor is studied in detail considering a condenser pressure range of 10-80 kPa, a boiler pressure range of 3-15 MPa and a superheater temperature range of 350-600 degrees C. The all four states of the thermodynamic cycle are calculated for a great number of conditions within the above pressure and temperature ranges. Thermodynamic properties of water are evaluated using X Steam, "Steam and water properties for Matlab (c)" based on the "International Association for Properties of Water and Steam Industrial Formulation 1997 (IAPWS IF-97)". Results are represented in graphs of Heat Input vs. boiler pressure, Thermal Efficiency vs. boiler pressure and Vapor Quality at Turbine Exit vs. boiler pressure for various condenser pressures and superheater temperatures. The results are also represented as correlations of heat input, efficiency and net work which are readily available for quick calculations.