Comparative analysis and evaluation of different working fluids for the organic rankine cycle performance

The aim of this study is to find the best working fluid for Organic Rankine Cycles (ORCs) at specific temperature limits, with a focus on thermodynamic analysis, environmental impact, and protection. A subcritical Rankine cycle with organic working fluids was used to produce electricity using a lowtemperature heat source. The six organic fluids (R600, R245fa, R290, R134a, R123 & R600a) were selected, studied, and compared for ORC applications to get high efficiency and COP. The study found that because of pressure factor, efficiency, expander, R600a, R134a & R290 are the most preferable choices. In terms of COP and pressure ratio, R600a is best among the six fluids. However, if we consider factors like mass flow rate, refrigerating capacity and COP, then R245fa & R123 are the suitable choices. However, the ODP of R123 is found to be 0.012, and given the targeted zero tolerance for ODP compounds, R123 working fluid would be phased out sooner than expected, especially given its significant GWP of 76. The GWP of R245fa is at an intolerable level of 820. (c) 2021 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved. Selection and peer-review under responsibility of the scientific committee of the International Conference on Materials and System Engineering.

Automated summary

The study focuses on finding the best working fluid for Organic Rankine Cycles (ORCs) at specific temperature limits, considering thermodynamic analysis, environmental impact, and protection. Among the six organic fluids studied, R600a is found to be the most preferable choice in terms of COP and pressure ratio, while factors like mass flow rate and refrigerating capacity may make R245fa & R123 more suitable options. However, concerns about ODP and GWP may lead to the phase out of R123 and the intolerable environmental impact of R245fa.