Comprehensive analysis and thermo-economic optimization of the dry cooling system for supercritical CO2 power cycle

This paper presents a comprehensive analysis and optimization of the dry cooling system for the supercritical CO 2 (sCO 2 ) power cycle, a promising technology for generating electricity from renewable heat sources. Unlike prior studies that concentrated solely on specific cooling system components, this paper examines thermoeconomic factors and employs mathematical models to analyze how various operational parameters impact both the cooling system's performance and cost, as well as the overall power cycle. Additionally, the paper employs a multi-objective optimization method to determine the optimal parameter values across varying cooling capacities and ambient temperatures. The results show that the thermal efficiency of the power cycle does not increase linearly with the cooling capacity, due to the change in CO 2 's physical properties near the temperature and pressure where it behaves like both a liquid and a gas (the pseudo-critical point). Furthermore, optimal cooling system area varies based on cooling capacity and ambient temperature, leading to cost reduction and improved power system efficiency. This paper provides a useful tool and guidance for designing and operating the dry cooling system for the sCO 2 power cycle.