Concepts and fundamental equations in Thermodynamics with Finite Speed

This paper presents the basic concepts and fundamental equations of the Thermodynamics with Finite Speed (TFS) resulted by the systematically study of the thermal reciprocating machine in relation with the piston finite speed and thermal molecular speed measured in the considered thermodynamic system. These concepts are based on the idea that any propagation of the interaction in the thermodynamic systems of finite dimensions is achieved by finite speeds: (1) - piston speed, (2) - average speed of the gas molecules inside the cylinder. A specific approach (scheme of calculation) for non-equilibrium (irreversible) thermodynamic processes is developed within TFS in order to find the fundamental equations appropriate for Optimizing Efficiency or COP and Power of thermal reciprocating machines. Analytical equations for all 5 irreversible thermodynamic processes in gases (isometric, isothermal, isobaric, adiabatic, polytropic) are deduced by integration of the combined First and Second Laws equation for processes with Finite Speed. This paper is limited to Irreversible Processes with Finite Speed, without taking into account the Friction and Throttling effects. It also notes the main moments in the development of TFS that led to these concepts and fundamental equations.