An Experimental Analysis of the Exergetic, Exergoeconomic, and Exergoenvironmental Performance of ORC and Rankine Cycle Integration in Tractor Engines Using Simulated Data

This research conducts a comprehensive simulation-based experimental analysis of a dual-loop waste heat recovery (WHR) system integrating an Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) and a steam Rankine Cycle for enhancing the efficiency of tractor diesel engines. The high-temperature (HT) loop utilizes a steam Rankine Cycle to recover heat from exhaust gases, while the low-temperature (LT) loop employs an ORC to harness residual heat from the jacket cooling water and the HT loop's condenser. Utilizing simulated data derived from a validated 110 kW tractor diesel engine model operating under various load conditions, the study evaluates exergetic efficiency, exergoeconomic costs, and exergoenvironmental impacts. R245fa serves as the ORC working fluid, with water for the steam cycle. Key findings reveal a maximum net power output of 12.5 kW, yielding an 11.4% improvement in overall engine efficiency. The exergetic efficiency peaks at 52.3%, with significant avoidable exergy destruction in the evaporator (28.4 kW). Exergoeconomic analysis indicates a specific investment cost (SIC) of 8450 $/kW, while exergoenvironmental impacts are optimized at 72 mPts/h for R245fa. This integration demonstrates substantial potential for fuel savings and emission reductions in agricultural machinery, aligning with sustainable engineering practices.sciencedirect.