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High temperature recuperator tests. Final report

Technical Report ·
DOI:https://doi.org/10.2172/5189826· OSTI ID:5189826

A demonstration and test program was conducted on a high temperature, two pass ceramic tube recuperator. Data pertaining to heat exchanger performance characteristics were collected and compared with calculated values. The effect of improved heat exchanger effectiveness on system fuel consumption was demonstrated. Changes in fuel flow as a function of combustion air preheat while maintaining a given heat load were demonstrated. The effects of excess air on fuel consumption with and without system recuperation were demonstrated. A preheat level of 1740/sup 0/F with a heat exchanger inlet of 2537/sup 0/F for a recuperator effectiveness of 68% was demonstrated. Comparison of test measurements and calculated heat balance and heat transfer characteristics indicated that the measured effects of recuperation and excess air levels on fuel consumption were close to theoretical values. A post-program examination of the recuperator indicted that no damage to the recuperator occurred that could not be alleviated by minor design modification. The modifications necessary to achieve 1800 to 2000/sup 0/F preheat with a ceramic tube recuperator of the type demonstrated were extrapolated from measurements made in this program. The same two pass approach demonstrated in this program can be used. The number of face tubes vs. pressure drop for increased recuperator effectiveness was calculated. Modifications and procedures necessary to achieve a 1800 to 2000/sup 0/F preheat with furnace temperatures between 2500/sup 0/F and 2800/sup 0/F are discussed.

Research Organization:
Hague International, South Portland, ME (USA)
DOE Contract Number:
AC02-79CS40257
OSTI ID:
5189826
Report Number(s):
DOE/CS/40257-1
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English