150 kwe Supercritical Closed Cycle System

Abstract

This paper explores the potential applicability of the Supercritical (Feher) Thermodynamic Power Cycle to advanced ground nuclear power systems. The supercritical cycle is a closed cycle heat engine that operates entirely above the critical pressure of the working fluid. It is characterized by high thermal efficiency and compactness of the machinery. The cycle is highly regenerated and receives heat over a narrow temperature range. For the evaluation of the advantages of the power conversion concept, a 150-kwe power conversion module has been selected that employs a gas turbine driven high speed alternator, using carbon dioxide as the working fluid.