Thermodynamics Principles Application — Lesson - 2

This lesson covers the application of thermodynamics principles to solve problems related to air compression, heat exchangers, and mixing chambers. It explains how to calculate power input, entropy generation, and mass flow rates using the first law of thermodynamics and entropy balance. The lesson also demonstrates how to retrieve properties from steam tables and how to interpret entropy generation values to determine the feasibility of a process. For instance, it uses a real-world example of a compressor cooling air from 100 kilopascals and 20° centigrade to 200 kilopascals and 300° centigrade, and calculates the power input and entropy generation during this process.

Video Highlights

02:26 - Application of the first law to the compressor
08:30 - Use of an adiabatic heat exchanger to cool ethylene glycol
15:19 - Heating of liquid water in a chamber by mixing it with superheated steam
22:56 - Application of the first law to the mixing chamber
24:48 - Application of entropy balance and calculation of entropy generation

Key Takeaways

- The power input to a compressor can be determined by applying the first law of thermodynamics.
- The entropy generation during a process can be calculated by balancing entropy.
- The cooling of a compressor using fins leads to heat loss to the surroundings.
- The entropy generation rate can be found using the entropy balance.
- In an adiabatic heat exchanger, the mass flow rate of water can be determined by applying the first law of thermodynamics