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Ericsson Cycle Isothermal Regenerative Efficiency Calculator

The Ericsson cycle consists of two isothermal processes (expansion at T_H and compression at T_L) and two isobaric regenerative heat exchange processes.

Calculated Result
70.0%

Thermal Efficiency (Carnot Limit)

Specific Net Work (w_net)

278.6 kJ/kg

Heat Addition (q_in)

397.9 kJ/kg

Pressure Ratio (r_p)

4×

Calculation Breakdown

  1. η = 1 - T_L / T_H70.0%
  2. w_net = R·(T_H - T_L)·ln(r_p)278.6 kJ/kg

What Is the Ericsson Cycle Isothermal Regenerative Efficiency Calculator?

The Ericsson cycle consists of two isothermal processes (expansion at T_H and compression at T_L) and two isobaric regenerative heat exchange processes.

With ideal 100% regenerator effectiveness, the Ericsson cycle achieves the theoretical maximum Carnot thermal efficiency: η = 1 - T_L/T_H.

How Does the Ericsson Cycle Isothermal Regenerative Efficiency Calculator Work?

The calculation evaluates user-provided measurements using recognized domain equations, converts between measurement units, and adjusts for real-world efficiency factors.

Ericsson Cycle Isothermal Regenerative Efficiency Calculator Formula & Variables

The core mathematical equation utilized by this calculator is expressed as:

η_th = 1 - (T_L / T_H), w_net = R · (T_H - T_L) · ln(r_p), q_in = R · T_H · ln(r_p)

Evaluates closed regenerative Ericsson cycle work output with ideal gas constant R = 0.287 kJ/kg·K for air.

How to Use the Ericsson Cycle Isothermal Regenerative Efficiency Calculator

  1. Enter your primary measurements in the input fields above.
  2. Select your preferred units (e.g. metric or imperial) if applicable.
  3. Review or adjust operational assumptions such as field efficiency.
  4. Click Calculate to instantly generate the full results breakdown and visual chart.
  5. Use the Reset button at any time to clear the form and test a new scenario.

Step-by-Step Example Calculation

High-temperature Ericsson solar gas turbine operating between 1,000 K and 300 K

Input Values:

maxTempKelvin:1000
minTempKelvin:300
pressureRatioRp:4
heatCapacityRatioGamma:1.4
Worked Steps: Achieves 70.0% Carnot thermal efficiency and produces ~278.5 kJ/kg specific net mechanical work.

Understanding Your Result

Your calculated result represents the realistic operational capacity or baseline output under the specified conditions. Comparing theoretical and effective outputs reveals the direct impact of turns, overlap, and practical downtime.

Factors That Affect the Result

Field terrain, operator experience, equipment maintenance, overlap margin, and weather conditions can significantly influence real-world output.

When Should You Use This Calculator?

Use this calculator whenever you need quick, verified estimates for job planning, budgeting, equipment sizing, or project timelines.

Assumptions & Limitations

  • Thermodynamics
  • Power Cycles
  • Heat Engines

Frequently Asked Questions

Calculation Accuracy & Reference Note

This calculator implements verified, deterministic mathematical equations based on published standards. Results should be treated as professional engineering estimates; always verify critical operations with local equipment manuals and site inspections.

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