A transcritical CO2 cycle using 2-stage and expander was simulated to predict the performance characteristics. The cycle simulation was conducted as a function of design parameters and operating conditions. The simulation results of the 2-stage cycle ...
A transcritical CO2 cycle using 2-stage and expander was simulated to predict the performance characteristics. The cycle simulation was conducted as a function of design parameters and operating conditions. The simulation results of the 2-stage cycle showed similar tendency with the measured system pressure, compressor work, evaporator capacity and COP. The performance of the expander cycle was compared with that of the basic CO2 cycle. System characteristics were analyzed with variations of compressor frequency, outdoor temperature and EEV opening. In the 2-stage cycle simulation, the highest COP was 2.7 at 30-30 Hz. The COP decreased as the compressor frequency increased. Besides, the COP can be increased by optimizing EEV opening. The COP of the 2-stage cycle was approximately 23% higher than that of the basic cycle. The expander as an expansion device can help to enhance the COP of the system.