Ferramenta para análise da eficiência energética de um gerador de calor movido a casca da castanha de caju

Abstract

Energy efficiency is one of the main concerns regarding the use of fuels, whether they are from a clean and renewable source or fossil fuels. When it comes to clean energy, its advantages are attractive, as they present a more sustainable way of using natural resources. Thus, a range of possibilities is opened up in the field of research on these means. Currently, there are several areas of study on renewable sources, among them biomass can be highlighted. Therefore, this work aims to create a tool that can analyze the energy efficiency of a heat generator that operates using a type of biomass, cashew nut shell. The development consists of using boiler efficiency calculation methodologies and fuel calorific power analysis. In summary, the values related to the operation of the generator are understood through 1st law efficiency and exergy destruction, and how they behave according to the characteristics of the biofuel. All calculations of this project were developed using the Excel tool and the CoolProp extension. The results consist of obtaining values related to the generator efficiency, also evaluating its losses. Thus, it is possible to plot graphs that correlate the efficiency of the boiler and how much exergy is destroyed, showing an optimal point of operation according to the initial conditions. Therefore, it is valid to say that the tool has been developed and fulfills its expectations, following a methodological plan capable of analyzing the efficiency of a heat generator in a simple manner, and contributing to the study of future engineering graduates, as it can facilitate theoretical and practical understanding in the field of energy efficiency and biofuels.