Performance optimization of low-dissipation thermal machines revisited

Abstract

We revisit the optimization of performance of finite-time Carnot machines satisfying the low-dissipation assumption. The standard procedure seeks to optimize an objective function, such as power output of the engine, over the durations of contacts between the working medium and the heat reservoirs. This procedure may lead to unwieldy equations at the optimum of some objective functions. We propose an alternate scheme in which the output or input work is first optimized for a given cycle time, followed by an optimization of another objective function over the cycle time. The optimal behavior is thus obtained in a much simplified manner, with closed-form expressions for figures of merit. The approach is demonstrated for various objective functions, both for engines as well as refrigerators.

6 pages, Revtex, discussion on Gouy-Stodola theorem added

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Cited by in corpus (4)

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• Optimal Performance of a Three-level Quantum Refrigerator
• Coupled autonomous thermal machines and efficiency at maximum power
• Unified approach to power-efficiency trade-off relations of generic thermal machines