Thermodynamic analysis of high-temperature regenerative organic Rankine cycles using siloxanes as working fluids

A recent novel adjustment of the Span–Wagner equation of state for siloxanes, used as working fluids in high-temperature organic Rankine cycles, is applied in a mathematical model to solve cycles under several working conditions. The proposed scheme includes a thermo-oil intermediate heat circuit between the heat source and the organic Rankine cycle. Linear and cyclic siloxanes are assayed in saturated, superheated and supercritical cycles. The cycle includes an internal heat exchanger (regenerative cycle), although a non-regenerative scheme is also solved. In the first part of the study, a current of combustion gases cooled to close to their dew point temperature is taken as the reference heat source. In the second part, the outlet temperature of the heat source is varied over a wide range, determining appropriate fluids and schemes for each thermal level. Simple linear (MM, MDM) siloxanes in saturated regenerative schemes show good efficiencies and ensure thermal stability of the working fluid.

► Organic Rankine cycles with polymethylsiloxanes as working fluids were modelled.
► The cycle scheme is regenerative and includes an intermediate heat transfer fluid.
► The fluid properties were calculated by means of the Span–Wagner equation of state.
► Vapour conditions to the expander and source thermal level were analysed.
► Siloxanes MM, MDM and D4 under saturated conditions were the best options.