Mathematical Simulation of Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion Seawater Systems

A mathematical model and computer code have been developed to predict the performance of the Seawater System (SWS) of an Ocean Thermal Energy Conversion (OTEC) power plant. A time-dependent, one-dimensional model is constructed for the fluid flow through the SWS based on the fundamental conservation equations of mass, momentum, and energy. Boundary conditions include system response to seaway dynamics. A finite difference method is used to solve the conservation equations. Auxiliary relations for evaluating friction and heat transfer coefficients and special modeling of sumps and pumps are included. Predictions of OTEC-1 pilot plant performance are presented.