Modeling and characterization of scroll expanders with variable wrap thickness used in micro compressed air energy storage systems

Zengyao Li, Xiaoyu Liu, Jun Wang, Liexin Liu, Zengli Wang and Dong Cui

Energy, 2025, vol. 316, issue C

Abstract: Efficient and reliable structures are urgently needed for research on the output performance of scroll expanders, aimed at enhancing energy conversion efficiency in micro-compressed air energy storage (CAES) systems. To address these critical issues, this study proposed a fully meshing scroll expander with variable wrap thickness and presented a method for its generation. Thermodynamic characteristics of the expander were represented by establishing a quasi-dimensional model. An exergy analysis was conducted to determine the effect of the suction pressure on exergy efficiency. Furthermore, numerical simulations of unsteady flow within the expansion chamber were carried out to gain comprehensive understanding of working features. Factors contributing to the energy conversion performance in the expander were examined and the efficiency of the expander was evaluated. The results indicate that designing scroll wraps with variable thickness significantly enhances discharge capacity and increases built-in volume ratio. An ideal pressure ratio for the expander is identified as between 3.6 and 4.5. Additionally, by analyzing energy conversion performance under various combinations of rotational speeds and suction pressures, it has been determined that the expander exhibits an optimal efficiency region. Both energy and exergy evaluations revealed that increasing suction pressure does not effectively improve the performance of the expander.

Keywords: Compressed air energy storage; Scroll expander; Variable wrap thickness; Thermodynamic modelling; Efficiency analysis (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2025
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Persistent link: https://EconPapers.repec.org/RePEc:eee:energy:v:316:y:2025:i:c:s0360544225001161

DOI: 10.1016/j.energy.2025.134474

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