A theoretical optimization method for combined cycle coupled with (very) high temperature gas-cooled reactor

High temperature gas-cooled reactors and very high temperature reactor (HTGR and VHTR) have a wide range of applications because of their inherent safety and high heat source temperature. Combined cycle can realize the cascade utilization of high-temperature heat source of HTGR and VHTR and improve their energy utilization efficiency. In this article, a theoretical optimization method for the combined cycle coupled with HTGR and VHTR is proposed. By optimizing the topping cycle and the bottoming cycle separately, the multivariate combined cycle efficiency expression is organized into the optimized relationship with three variables (reactor outlet temperature, main steam temperature and main steam pressure). Therefore, the problems of multiple variables, mutual coupling and unclear physical significance of the combined cycle coupled with HTGR and VHTR are solved. The theoretical optimization values can provide guidance for the design of combined cycle of HTGR and VHTR. (author)