https://server.s4e2.com/crc/amtc/chapters/index.htmlIntroduction This book introduces an innovative pedagogical and methodological approach to modeling and analyzing energy systems using the Thermoptim simulator. It replaces heavy mathematical formalism with graphical modeling and interactive simulation, allowing learners to focus on understanding technologies and system architectures. Designed for both beginners and advanced users, it bridges theory and practice by providing a unified framework for studying real-world energy conversion technologies. The book combines fundamental thermodynamics, component modeling, and system optimization within a constructivist learning environment that promotes autonomy, realism, and critical analysis.Hugoen-usThu, 22 Jan 2026 14:35:49 +0100https://server.s4e2.com/crc/amtc/chapters/chapter1/index.htmlThu, 22 Jan 2026 14:35:49 +0100https://server.s4e2.com/crc/amtc/chapters/chapter1/index.html🔧 Chapter 1: Presentation of the Approach A Two-Level Methodology for Energy Systems Ever wondered how to simplify complex energy systems? This chapter shows you how! Qualitative > Quantitative: Thermodynamics is easier to grasp through concepts than equations. Gas Turbine Example: Learn how energy technologies are built from component assemblies where fluids undergo thermodynamic processes. Dual Challenge Solved: Analytical methods for individual components. Systems perspective for internal architecture. Key Tools:https://server.s4e2.com/crc/amtc/chapters/chapter2/index.htmlThu, 22 Jan 2026 14:35:49 +0100https://server.s4e2.com/crc/amtc/chapters/chapter2/index.html🔥 Chapter 2: Thermodynamics Fundamentals Simplified, Practical, and Applied Thermodynamics doesn’t have to be complicated! This chapter covers the essentials you need to study energy technologies: Basics first: Open/closed systems, state variables, and reversible processes. Energy & Exergy: Master the First and Second Laws of Thermodynamics + exergy for energy quality. Substance Properties: From perfect gases to real condensable fluids—all in one framework! Visual Aids: Thermodynamic diagrams: Clapeyron, entropy, Mollier, and more to visualize fluid properties and cycles. Moist Mixtures & Refrigerants: Practical applications for air conditioning and refrigeration. Goal: Make applied thermodynamics accessible without sacrificing rigor!https://server.s4e2.com/crc/amtc/chapters/chapter3/index.htmlThu, 22 Jan 2026 14:35:49 +0100https://server.s4e2.com/crc/amtc/chapters/chapter3/index.html⚙️ Chapter 3: Basic Components and Processes From Theory to Real-World Components Dive into the physical phenomena governing energy conversion technologies! Component Breakdown: Compressions (displacement & dynamic). Expansions (turbines). Combustion processes. Throttling operations. Moist mixtures (air conditioning). Practical Focus: Irreversibilities and efficiency (isentropic/polytropic). Off-design behavior—because real systems don’t always run at peak conditions! Performance maps for system design and optimization. Thermoptim in Action: Every process is illustrated with examples and calculation procedures—ready to use in your own models!https://server.s4e2.com/crc/amtc/chapters/chapter4/index.htmlThu, 22 Jan 2026 14:35:49 +0100https://server.s4e2.com/crc/amtc/chapters/chapter4/index.html🔄 Chapter 4: Heat Exchangers Mastering Heat Transfer in Energy Systems Heat exchangers are everywhere—learn how to model and optimize them! Core Principles: Heat flux equations (LMTD method). Overall heat transfer coefficient U (including fins & convection). NTU method (Kays & London) for exchanger effectiveness. Configurations Covered: Counter-flow, parallel-flow, cross-flow, shell-and-tube. Pinch point analysis—critical for design! Thermoptim Tools: “Exchange” processes and thermocouplers. Design procedures for real-world applications. Outcome: Bridge theory and engineering practice with tools for both preliminary analysis and detailed thermal design.https://server.s4e2.com/crc/amtc/chapters/chapter5/index.htmlThu, 22 Jan 2026 14:35:49 +0100https://server.s4e2.com/crc/amtc/chapters/chapter5/index.html🛠️ Chapter 5: External Class Development Extend Thermoptim’s Capabilities Want to go beyond core Thermoptim features? This chapter shows you how! Why External Classes? Create custom components (solar collectors, cooling towers). Model specialized substances (Dowtherm A, LiBr-H₂O mixtures). Implement external controllers for optimization. Practical Examples: Thermodynamic property servers for custom substances. Solar collectors with effectiveness-based models. Cooling towers with coupled heat/mass transfer. Open-Source Flexibility: Design GUI elements, save/load parameters, and integrate with Thermoptim’s engine. Moist mixture calculations using external nodes. Power Up: This mechanism expands Thermoptim’s applicability while keeping it consistent with core thermodynamics!https://server.s4e2.com/crc/amtc/chapters/chapter6/index.htmlThu, 22 Jan 2026 14:35:49 +0100https://server.s4e2.com/crc/amtc/chapters/chapter6/index.html⚖️ Chapter 6: Component Sizing and Off-Design Operation From Theory to Real-World Performance This chapter tackles sizing and off-design simulation through a concrete example: a simple refrigeration cycle. Two Levels of Models: Phenomenological: Thermodynamic cycle calculations (technology-independent). Technological: Geometric dimensioning + off-design performance. Off-Design Challenges: Strong coupling between components. Adaptation to boundary conditions. Case Study: Refrigeration Cycle Evaporation/condensation temperatures determined by thermal balances. Compressor performance and heat transfer coefficients under varying conditions. Key Insight: Off-design analysis is far more complex than pure cycle studies—but this chapter gives you the tools to master it!https://server.s4e2.com/crc/amtc/chapters/chapter7/index.htmlThu, 22 Jan 2026 14:35:49 +0100https://server.s4e2.com/crc/amtc/chapters/chapter7/index.html🔥 Chapter 7: Sizing and Off-Design Behavior of Heat Exchangers Beyond Simple Calculations Building on Chapter 4, this chapter dives into sizing and off-design calculations for heat exchangers. NTU Method Revisited: Calculate UA product (overall exchange coefficient × surface area). Pressure drop for single-phase and two-phase flows. Heat Transfer Modeling: Extended surfaces, Reynolds/Prandtl numbers, Nusselt correlations. Two-phase exchange: Condensation and evaporation correlations. Special Cases: Nucleate boiling in steam generators (TechnoSteamGenerator class). Multi-zone exchangers: Evaporators, condensers, and combined systems. Practical Tips: From direct geometric calculations to experimental data identification, this chapter covers it all!https://server.s4e2.com/crc/amtc/chapters/chapter8/index.htmlThu, 22 Jan 2026 14:35:49 +0100https://server.s4e2.com/crc/amtc/chapters/chapter8/index.html💨 Chapter 8: Modeling and Setting of Displacement Compressors Off-Design Behavior Demystified Displacement compressors are everywhere—learn how to model their off-design behavior! Key Parameters: Volumetric efficiency (λ): Actual swept volume. Isentropic efficiency (ηs): Two models (5-parameter and simplified 3-parameter). Loss Mechanisms: Dead space, pressure drops, thermal effects, leakage. Optimal compression ratio and rotation speed. Thermoptim Implementation: Technological design screens for adiabatic and cooled compressors. Fixed internal volume ratio (Vi) and its impact on performance. Why It Matters: Understand real-world behavior—not just ideal conditions!https://server.s4e2.com/crc/amtc/chapters/chapter9/index.htmlThu, 22 Jan 2026 14:35:49 +0100https://server.s4e2.com/crc/amtc/chapters/chapter9/index.html🌀 Chapter 9: Modeling and Setting of Dynamic Compressors and Turbines Tackling Turbomachinery Complexity Dynamic compressors and turbines are complex—but this chapter breaks it down! Two Main Methodologies: Velocity triangle deformation under varying conditions. Similarity laws with experimental performance maps. Fundamentals Covered: Rateau coefficients (power factor μ, flow coefficient δ). Degree of reaction and theoretical characteristics. Real-World Modeling: Corrected rotation speed and flow for dynamic compressors. Stodola’s cone rule and Baumann’s efficiency degradation for turbines. Thermoptim in Action: Practical screens for each machine type—ready for your simulations!https://server.s4e2.com/crc/amtc/chapters/chapter10/index.htmlThu, 22 Jan 2026 14:35:49 +0100https://server.s4e2.com/crc/amtc/chapters/chapter10/index.html📊 Chapter 10: Case Studies From Theory to Practice Four real-world case studies to put your knowledge into action! Case Study Focus Tools & Methods Air Piston Compressor Charging compressed air storage with exchanger cooling. Controller creation, off-design analysis, Wang-Chi-Chang correlation. Refrigeration Machine Displacement compressor, thermostatic valve, and two-phase heat exchangers. minPack solver for nonlinear equation systems. Simplified Steam Power Plant Turbine + heat exchangers under varying conditions. Stodola’s rule, multi-zone exchanger calculations. Flamanville 3 EPR Turbine Part-load operation using official EDF data. External controllers, Stodola law, polytropic efficiency variations. Key Outcomes: