LAUSR

Abstract This work focuses on the modelling of a tri-generation system for converting biomass into electrical, cooling and heat power. This target is achieved by direct burning of biomass using a combustor chamber, at atmospheric pressure, connected with an externally fired gas turbine (EFGT), an organic Rankine cycle (ORC) and absorption cooling system. The used feedstock is sugarcane bagasse which is available in various areas of Upper Egypt, especially in Qena and Aswan. For ORC system, several working fluids (cyclohexane, benzene, toluene, and R113) have been studied to analyze the optimum fluid that corresponds to the entire system. The selection of more suitable ORC working fluid is mainly depends on the temperature difference between the heat source and its boiling point. Based on the simulation results, toluene is the most appropriate working fluid for combined cooling, heat and power (CCHP) applications. The net electric power is 177.56 kW (142.92 kW from EFGT and 34.64 kW from ORC), net electrical efficiency is 24.2%, cooling capacity is 38.50 kW and CCHP efficiency is 43.50%. The biomass consumption at the optimal operating conditions is 144 kg/h.