Modelling of a domestic-scale co-generation plant thermal capacitance considerations

The following paper describes the development of a computer model to simula te the operation of a domestic-scale co-generation plant incorporating a he at pump. Thermal capacitance considerations are critical to the model's acc uracy, especially as the plant design requires two heat-exchangers with dif fering transient characteristics. The paper compares model results with tho se obtained experimentally in order to assess the modelling assumptions and methods employed. Comparative analysis of the two sets of data, for indivi dual heat-exchangers, shows that the modelling techniques and assumptions u sed were correct. The general economic validity of the model is additionall y proven. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science Ltd. All rights reserved.