Exergo-economic cost analysis for a long-range transport aircraft propulsion system at non-linear power loads

Abstract

The several series of PW4000 high bypass turbofan engine have used so far in many aircrafts. These commercial engines are closely related to environmental impacts and security of energy supply. In this study, exergo-economic analysis which is useful tool to investigate existing potential for cost-effective components was carried out. Therefore, exergo-economic indicators of PW4000 engine was examined by employing energetic, exergetic and economic relations at non-linear different power settings. Moreover, exergo-economic performance of PW4000 and its components was explored with several parameters such as exergy destruction cost ($/h), exergo-economic factor (%) and specific thrust cost ($/hkN). Based on the results of exergo-economic analysis, a specific cost of Fan thrust was found about 3 times lower than Exhaust thrust at maximum revolution per minute (RPM). Namely, specific thrust costs of Fan and Exhaust were estimated 14.47 $/hkN and 54.78 $/hkN respectively. Considering the lowest and highest power settings, exergo-economic factor of the PW4000 engine was found as 17.28% and 10.59%, respectively. On component basis, the highest exergo-economic factor, ranging from 57.42% to 86.32%, was observed at Low Pressure Compressor (LPC) unit. Finally, exergy destruction cost, varying from 655 $/h to 1688 $/h, was found the highest at Combustor throughout RPM values. This study can help in understanding the nature of the relationship between non-linear power settings and the relevant exergo-economic parameters. (C) 2020 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.