Research on Dynamic Modeling of the Supercritical Carbon Dioxide Power Cycle

The supercritical carbon dioxide (SCO2) Brayton cycle, as a substitute for the steam cycle, can be widely used in a variety of power generation scenarios. However, most of the existing SCO2 cycle studies are restricted to basic thermodynamics research, parameter optimizations, system design in different application fields, and even economic analysis. Considering the load variability and control flexibility of the power generation system, the dynamic performance research of the SCO2 cycle is also crucial, but the work done is still limited. Based on the previous studies, Simulink software is used in this paper to develop a dynamic model of the 20 MW-SCO2 recompression cycle, which specifically includes component models that can independently realize physical functions and an overall closed-loop cycle model. A series of comparative calculation are carried out to verify the models and the results are very positive. The SCO2 recompression power system is built with the developed models and the dynamic model runs stably with a maximum error of 0.56%. Finally, the simulation of the dynamic switching conditions of the 20 MW-SCO2 recompression cycle are performed and the analysis results supply instructive suggestions for the system operation and control.

Automated summary

The supercritical carbon dioxide (SCO2) Brayton cycle is a promising alternative to the steam cycle in power generation systems. Dynamic performance research of the SCO2 cycle is crucial for considering load variability and control flexibility. The use of Simulink software to develop a dynamic model of the SCO2 cycle has shown positive results in system operation and control.