Quote:
Originally Posted by JSH
There is a big difference between theoretical values, lab tests, and reality. A combined cycle gas plant is theoretically 95% efficient. The most efficient real combined cycle plant is the GE 7HA that is 63.8% efficient.
(I worked on the 7HA and 9HA programs at my first job out of university)
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Peak thermal efficiencies for Class 8 diesel trucks are already at 48%. Large ocean going diesels are at 52%. A practical application of the Atkinson Cycle to the diesel cycle can push the 60% envelope. Use of ceramic coatings to reduce heat loss ( the main advantage of the large ocean engines due to cylinder size )
plus advanced injector technologies such as the defunct Transonic super critical fuel injection will nudge you within spitting range of 70% thermal efficiency. That's more than good enough to use as a constant load generator in a serial hybrid vehicle.