Conceptual Design and Simulation of a Microturbine: An Electric Car Range Extender Application

Conceptual Design and Simulation of a Microturbine: An Electric Car Range Extender Application

Head, A.J.

Visser, W.P.J. (mentor)
Mee, D.J. (mentor)
Van Buijtenen, J.P. (mentor)
Rao, A.G. (mentor)

Aerospace Engineering

Aerodynamics, Wind Energy, Flight Performance and Propulsion

Flight Performance and Propulsion

2011-06-03

The microturbine seems to be a viable option for implementation into Hybrid Electric Vehicle (HEV) systems. A microturbine was constructed in the Gas Turbine Simulation software GSP in order to assess its viability for a low-power range extender. Due to the small magnitude of the turbine, scale effects need to be incorporated into the performance models. A microturbine has various advantages over other heat engines (Wankel, Piston, or Fuel Cell), and the capabilities in terms of range extension of the HEV are potentially superior. Through the use of the Engineering Design Process, a new microturbine design was developed that allows the system to be implemented into the HEV system. Aspects such as geometric size, weight, cost, availability, and ease of production were used to compare the different concepts and determine their feasibility. Empirical loss models previously researched were adapted and implemented into scheduling components of the microturbine base model. The model was used to simulate the required output data (Mechanical/ Electric Power, CO_2 emissions, Fuel flow rate, Exhaust gas temperature and Exhaust gas mass flow) for a range of predefined design powers (9, 15, 22, 30, 36 kW). Power-to-weight ratios and component dimensions were also calculated and sent for analysis. The data above was generated under two control schemes (fixed and variable speed) and at three power codes; maximum power (100%), part load (60%) and idle (20%). The HEV model used this data to configure and size its own system. Simulations of design and optimization are important as it restricts the size of the HEV. The results suggest that the variable speed control scheme will extend the life of the system and reduce emissions substantially. If the microturbine is operated at or below ISA conditions the scheme offers numerous other advantages. However the control system is far more complex and will cost more to develop. Recommendations have been highlighted for model configuration improvement and focus on the control system is important for continued programme development.

Microturbines
Hybrid Electric Vehicles
Fuel Analysis
Performance

http://resolver.tudelft.nl/uuid:9633fb1c-9927-426d-a784-0c5f3ff36e6f

Student theses

bachelor thesis

(c) 2011 Head, A.J.