Low emission mini cogenerative combined cycle for naval applications

The themes of energy production with low environmental impact and with energy recovery, will have, in the near future, high potential of development also for naval applications. The containment of pollutant emissions can be achieved by an innovative mini gas-steam combined cycle with thermal energy cogeneration to feed the ship thermal utilities, in place of or alongside the electric Diesel engines currently used. Present work is focused on the definition of the architecture of the plant, by selecting optimal distribution of pressure and temperature and repartition of power between GT and ST, as well as on the choice and sizing of the individual components. The main purpose is the definition of a compact, high efficiency, system. The proposed basic mini-cycle consists of a GT of about 1.4MW and a ST of about 0.5MW. Thanks to the combined heat and power cogeneration plant adopted, for an overall electrical efficiency of about 28%, a total return (thermal + electricity) of 75% has been achieved. An example of plant providing large power, in a partially modular arrangement is also proposed.