The Method of Exergy Multipliers: A new approach to exergy analysis of thermal systems

This work introduces the Method of Exergy Multipliers. Having asserted the utility of the exergy concept, this method aims to streamline the calculation procedures used in exergy analysis and its study. The method defines the exergy multipliers of a given process in terms of ratios of the work, heat transfer, irreversibility, and exergy output of the process with its incoming exergy. Algebraic properties of these multipliers aid in reducing the number of calculations. Many exergy and traditional concepts can be expressed in terms of the multipliers. Examples for a simple, closed Brayton cycle follow: the first optimizes the distribution of heat exchanger resources, the second optimizes the distribution of turbomachinery efficiency, and the third shows how to decide whether to improve the boiler or the turbine. The role of irreversibility in cycle performance is called into question and further study is recommended. Finally, limitations of the method are explained.