Power Cycles Analysis

The ideal, simple and basic power cycles (Carnot Cycle, Brayton Cycle, Otto Cycle and Diesel Cycle) are presented in this course material.  In the presented power cycle analysis, air is used as the working fluid.

For each power cycle, the thermal efficiency derivation is presented with a simple mathematical approach.  Also, for each power cycle, a T - s diagram and cycle major performance trends (thermal efficiency, specific power output and power output) are plotted in a few figures as a function of compression ratio, turbine inlet temperature and/or final combustion temperature and working fluid mass flow rate.  It should be noted that this online course does not deal with costs (capital, operational or maintenance).