Dual-Fuel Compression-Ignition Engines Using the Rankine Cycle.

Of the 60% of input energy lost in the form of heat in an electric generating unit, a sizeable part can be used to generate electricity again by means of a steam turbine. Dual fuel engines which mainly burn natural gas are outstandingly suitable for such a recovery process, the efficiency under partial loads being better than that of conventional diesel engines. The author considers different types of fluids used for the recovery process and, specifically, the superiority of organic fluids over water. The influence of different parameters in the quest for the best cost-power ratio is discussed.