Development and validation of a numerical model of a rotary steam engine for electric power micro generation using biomass

Abstract

The use of fossil combustibles leads to the generation of large quantities of carbon dioxide. Though its effects on the environment are not fully explained, it is quite an highlighted fact that an alternative way to fossil fuels for heat and energy production has to be found. This paper presents a numerical model used for modeling a rotative steam engine to be employed to use the steam produced by a proper biomass boiler. This engine is based on the Wankel kinematic scheme and is developed using the one dimensional code AMESim. A proper numerical model was set up in order to take into account the volume and torque variation in function of the angular displacement of the rotor. A prototipe is also presented; this was built in the Energetica Department Laboratories modifying a commercial Wankel. This prototipe was tested at the engine test bench using compressed air at several inlet pressures and rotating speeds. The results of the experimental tests were then compared with the numerical ones in terms of delivered power, air consumption and ratio between inlet and outlet temperatures