Maximum power density analysis for irreversible combined Carnot cycles

Abstract

A finite-time thermodynamic optimization based on the maximum power density criterion for an irreversible combined Carnot heat engine model has been carried out. The effects of the finite-rate heat transfer, internal irreversibility and heat leak are considered in the analysis. The obtained results are compared with those results obtained by using the maximum power criterion. The design parameters under the optimal conditions were derived analytically and the effects of irreversibilities on the general and the optimal performances are investigated.