Microturbine systems for small combined heat and power (CHP) applications

Abstract: Microturbines are small-size gas turbines with high potential for distributed energy systems. The chapter discusses the characteristic features of microturbines in combined heat and power (CHP) generation under 100 kWe. It begins by introducing the challenges for the design in the microturbine scale and analyzing the factors that affect the performance in CHP operation. The chapter then describes the types and properties of the main microturbine components and considers operational viewpoints. Finally the chapter presents the current manufacturers and future trends for the microturbine industry.