Transient analysis and control of a heat to power conversion unit based on a simple regenerative supercritical CO2 Joule-Brayton cycle

Supercritical carbon dioxide (sCO2) heat to power systems are a promising technology thanks their potential for high efficiency and operational flexibility. However, dynamic behaviour during part-load transient operation is still not well understood further research needed. Additionally, there enough literature addressing suitable control approaches when the objective follow dynamics of load supplied by topping process maximise recovery. The current aims fill these gaps proposing one-dimensional modelling formulation calibrated against major components 50 kWe sCO2 test facility available at Brunel University London. analysis showed that system quickly adapts 2800s profile, proving flexible nature investigated. turbine by-pass, startup shutdown modes operation, enabled gradual safe build-up/decline pressures temperatures throughout loop. regulation inventory in range 20–60 kg allowed 30% variation inlet temperature with lower penalties on performance than turbomachinery speed control. designed proportional-integral controller rapid response around set point 773 K large variations load.