What is it about?
This paper highlights performance improvements to the Joule (Brayton) cycle using the wave rotor for aviation applications. First a wave rotor is used to enhance a base Joule cycle, and the effects of intercooling and recuperation modifications are studied. Also, a novel cascaded wave rotor (the 2-stage wave rotor cascade) is introduced and used as a topping device in the cycle, improving performance.
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Why is it important?
Our findings demonstrate that incorporating wave rotors as topping devices significantly boosts the efficiency and specific work output of gas turbines. Given the central role gas turbines play in transport and power generation applications, these enhancements can result in lower fuel consumption, reduced emissions, and decreased operating costs.
Perspectives
While gas turbines as they are have been extensively researched and are usually considered to have reached near maximum performance efficiencies, I hope this article furthers the discussion on novel and disruptive technologies such as wave rotors for higher gas turbine performance.
Kesty Yong Kenkoh
King Abdullah University of Science and Technology
Read the Original
This page is a summary of: The Potential of Wave Rotors in Complex Joule Cycles for Aviation, January 2025, American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA),
DOI: 10.2514/6.2025-0331.
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