Design and Optimization of Turbo-expanders for Organic Rankine Cycles

Focusing on energy production and emission reduction, this work explores organic Rankine cycles as a viable solution, particularly for low-temperature and decentralized heat recovery. It presents a computational model to predict axial-flow turbine performance, validated with experimental data. The design process incorporates a genetic algorithm for optimization, achieving an accuracy of ±3%. The simulation tool is applicable across various contexts, including offshore platforms and geothermal sources, underscoring the importance of simulation in turbine design for thermodynamic cycles.