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In power generation where the waste heat is used to create steam for a steam powered turbine 60% efficiency is reached.
A Pelton wheel exceeds 90% efficiency in hydro plants.
Gas turbines by themselves are maxing out at 35% and in most cases that is at high altitudes where ambient temperatures of 40 below and greater make cooling a non issue.
IC engines are approaching 60% now without power generation from exhaust heat.
The Chrysler turbine cars of the early 60s were good for about 12 MPG.
Turbines like diesel engines that approach the peak efficiencies listed are generally very large and not suitable for passenger cars.
They are also extraordinarily expensive to build, and micro turbine efficiencies are lower than small diesel engines like some of the VW produced passenger car engines that are in the neighborhood of 41% at best BSFC.
Combine the piston in cylinder of the typical IC engine, then eliminate the reciprocation penalties and you will see a small engine pass 60% efficiency. Just my opinion.
regards
Mech
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