Question

Several geothermal power plants are in operation in the United States and more are being built since the heat source of a geothermal plant is hot geothermal water, which is “free energy.” An 8-MW geothermal power plant is being considered at a location where geothermal water at 160°C is available. Geothermal water is to serve as the the heat source for a closed Rankine power cycle with R-134a as the working fluid. Specify suitable temperatures and pressures for the cycle, and determine the thermal efficiency of the cycle. Justify your selections.

Answer 1