Regenerator heat exchangers for gas-turbines

Abstract

Information was required from which the performance of regenerators suitable for heat exchangers for gas-turbines could readily be estimated. A series of tables and curves have been prepared from which the efficiency of a regenerator can be calculated if the operating conditions and heat transfer coefficients are known. The tables and curves cover a range of lengths and blow times appropriate to gas-turbine conditions. Measurements of heat transfer and pressure drop coefficients have been made on several examples of matrix of both the gauze and flame trap type in conditions similar to those in a gas turbine. A number of examples have been worked out from the experimental results to show the relative importance of the different variables on the performance of typical regenerators. A gauze matrix of fine wire and open mesh has a much lower weight and only slightly higher pressure drop than a flame-trap matrix for the same efficiency. The recommended size of gauze is a wire diameter of 0.002 in. to 0.004 in: and a mesh of 20 to 40 wires per inch, the material should be stainless steel. Further design study is necessary to determine whether this advantage can be maintained in a complete regenerator.