MODELING, ASYMPTOTIC ANALYSIS, AND SIMULATION OF AN ENERGY TOWER

A new model for the description of an energy tower is presented. For the modeling of the transient flow in an energy tower and the related power production a one-dimensional approach is taken. Although many simplifying assumptions are imposed, this approach is thought to incorporate most of the main physical effects. The model is derived from the general one-dimensional Euler equations of gas dynamics for a compressible humid air gas mixture. Low Mach number asymptotics allow us to handle the related problems. Numerical simulations are performed. Optimal values for the spray rate and the height of the spraying region are identified. The model gives results which are in accordance with our physical understanding. For lack of an energy tower prototype, a quantitative comparison is not possible at the moment.