The Exergy Method of Thermal Plant Analysis

The subject of this book, the Exergy Method also known as the Availability Analysis, is a method of thermodynamic analysis in which the basis of evaluation of thermodynamic losses follows from the Second Law rather than the First Law of Thermodynamics. As a result of the recent developments in this technique combined with the increasing need to conserve fuel, the Exergy Method has gained in the last few years many new followers, both among practising engineers and academics. Its advantages, in relation to the traditional techniques which rely mainly on the First Law are now generally recognised. Although the Exergy Method has featured as the subject of many published papers in scientific and engineering journals and at conferences, very few comprehensive English language books on this subject have been published so far. This book is particularly intended for engineers and students specialising in thermal and chemical plant design and operation as well as for applied scientists concerned with various aspects of conservation of energy. It introduces the subject in a manner that can be understood by anyone who is familiar with the fundamentals of Applied hermodynamics.Numerous examples are used in the book to aid the reader in assimilating the basic concepts and in mastering the techniques. The book contains a number of tables and charts which will be found of great assistance in calculations concerning topics such as thermoeconomics, refrigeration, cryogenic processes, combustion, power generation and various aspects of chemical and process engineering.