A detailed analysis and method of calculation is presented for determining the complete thermodynamic cycle of either a one-fluid or a two-fluid electrohydrodynamic (EHD) power generator. The analysis takes fully into account the compressibility of the media. Parameters are included which express the thermodynamic losses in the various components of the overall system. The severe restriction on output created by the electrical breakdown limit of the medium is clearly shown. The method for computing the net-electrical work output per unit mass of primary fluid and the net overall thermal efficiency of the system is carefully developed. The calculation procedure is illustrated by a completely worked out numerical example. The techniques presented here may be used to determine the performance possibilities and limitations of various one-fluid and two-fluid EHD power generators. (Author)
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