RACER Conceptual Design

Abstract

The Rankine Cycle Energy Recovery (or RACER) is an unfired waste heat recovery system designed for use aboard U.S. Navy gas turbine powered ships. The system converts waste heat from the exhaust of the main propulsion gas turbines into useful shaft horsepower and is currently planned for installation aboard the new DDG-51 class of ships. The design philosophy used in determining an overall system concept to minimize manning yet maximize availability, reliability and fuel savings is discussed. The paper also describes the trade-off analyses made to size the system in relation to overall fuel saving and gives a brief summary of the test programs to verify the system prior to ship installation.