Thermal Energy Recovery in Gas Turbine Engine Test Cells

摘要

The economics of thermal energy recovery in jet engine test cells is examined. A numerical model to simulate the test cell augmenter tube is developed. This model is employed to determine the feasibility of installing heat exchangers along the augmenter or at the augmenter exit and using these heat exchangers to generate steam or electricity from the thermal energy in the jet exhaust. In general, energy recovery is not practical. The exhaust is quickly diluted by the entrained augmentation air, decreasing temperature gradients necessary for heat transfer. Most test cells are used too infrequently to warrant the cost of the hardware. (Author)