Advanced multipass heat exchanger model for use in simulation and optimization of transcritical CO2 heat pumping cycles

A new plate heat exchanger model has been developed. It is highly configurable, allowing complex stream and plate configurations. The model is implemented into an existing heat pumping cycle simulation and optimization tool. This allows for investigating different (plate) heat exchanger geometries in respect to optimal system performance, and also making representative comparisons between systems with different refrigerants. A test case using CO2 as refrigerant has been run with three different gas cooler configurations, using the new model. The results illustrate the impact PHE designs may have on the system performance, and the potential for these kinds of versatile models