Performance analysis of metallic concentric tube recuperator in parallel flow arrangement

A performance model for parallel flow arrangement in metallic concentric tube recuperator that can be used to utilize the waste heat in the temperature range of 1100–1800 K is presented. The arrangement consists of metallic concentric shells wherein flue gases pass through the inner shell and air to be preheated passes through annular gap in the same direction. The recuperator height is divided into small elements and an energy balance is performed on each element. Necessary information about axial shell-surface, gas and air temperature distribution, and the influence of operating conditions on recuperator performance is obtained. The recuperative effectiveness is found to be increased with increasing inlet gas temperature and with decreasing fuel flow rate. The present model provides a valuable tool for metallic concentric tube recuperator performance considerations in parallel flow arrangement.