Multiple loop power generation using super critical cycle fluid with split recuperator
AssigneeXYZ Energy Group, LLC
InventorsRichard Alan Huntington, Frank F. Mittricker, Loren K. Starcher
Life of this patent
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Abstract
Systems and methods for transferring and converting heat to a power cycle using a plurality of heat transfer fluids, loops and heat exchange devices to convert heat to useful work and/or power. Power is generated using intermediate heat transfer loops (IHTL) and an intermediate heat transfer fluid (IHTF) to cool the hot exhaust power cycle fluid (PCF) stream that is at or above its critical conditions. The temperature of the IHTF can be increased by 100° C., 150° C., 200° C., 250° C., 300° C., 350° C., 400° C., 450° C., 500° C., 550° C. or more by exchanging heat with the PCF, either directly or indirectly.
Claims17
A method for generating power, comprising:
- a) providing three or more heat transfer devices, arranged in series, and confined within one or more contained housings that are fluidly connected;
- b) circulating an intermediate heat transfer fluid stream in series through the one or more housings and about the three or more heat transfer devices;
- c) circulating at least a portion of a hot exhaust power cycle fluid stream to a first of the three or more heat transfer devices to cool the hot exhaust power cycle fluid stream to form a cool low-pressure power cycle fluid stream and to heat the intermediate heat transfer fluid stream;
- d) separating the cool low-pressure power cycle fluid stream into at least a first portion and a second portion;
- e) circulating the first portion of the cool low-pressure power cycle fluid stream to a tertiary heat transfer device to reject residual heat from the power cycle fluid stream to an external system to form a cold low-pressure power cycle fluid stream;
- f) pumping or compressing at least a portion of the cold low-pressure power cycle fluid stream to form a cold high-pressure power cycle fluid stream;
- g) circulating at least a portion of the cold high-pressure power cycle fluid stream to a third of the three or more heat transfer devices to heat the cold high-pressure power cycle fluid stream to form a 1st warm high-pressure power cycle fluid stream and to cool the intermediate heat transfer fluid stream;
- h) pumping or compressing the second portion of the cool low-pressure power cycle fluid stream to form a 2nd warm high-pressure power cycle fluid stream;
- i) mixing the 1st warm high-pressure power cycle fluid stream and the 2nd warm high-pressure power cycle fluid stream to form a mixed warm high-pressure power cycle fluid stream;
- j) circulating the mixed warm high-pressure power cycle fluid stream to a second of the three or more heat transfer devices to form a hot high-pressure power cycle fluid stream;
- k) circulating and heating a primary heat transfer fluid using an external heat source to provide a heated primary heat transfer fluid;
- l) circulating at least a portion of the heated primary heat transfer fluid to a heat transfer device to further heat the hot high-pressure power cycle fluid stream to form a very hot high-pressure power cycle fluid stream;
- and
- m) circulating the very-hot high-pressure power cycle fluid stream to an expansion turbine device to form the hot exhaust power cycle fluid stream and generate power.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.