AN EXERGY METHOD FOR COMPRESSOR PERFORMANCE ANALYSIS

An exergy method for compressor performance analysis is presented. The purpose of this is to identify and quantify defects in the use of a c ompressor's shaft power. This information can be used as the basis for compressor design improvements. The defects are attributed to frictio n, irreversible heat transfer, fluid throttling, and irreversible flui d mixing. They are described, on a common basis, as exergy destruction rates and their locations are identified. The method can be used with any type of positive displacement compressor. It is most readily appl ied where a detailed computer simulation program is available for the compressor. An analysis of an open reciprocating refrigeration compres sor that used R12 refrigerant is given as an example. The results that are presented consist of graphs of the instantaneous rates of exergy destruction according to the mechanisms involved, a pie chart of the b reakdown of the average shaft power wastage by mechanism, and a pie ch art with a breakdown by location.