3. Theoretical modeling
Theoretical modeling can be an effective tool for predicting and
improving the performance of scroll expanders applied in the
waste heat recovery systems. Based on the theoretical models of
scroll compressors, a number of models of scroll expanders have
been proposed by many researchers. The most common scroll
machine analytic model is called deterministic model. The other
two models are empirical and semi-empirical models which are
validated by experimental results.
3.1. Deterministic model
3.1.1. The geometrical model
The geometrical modeling of the scroll machine is an essential
part for the investigation of the scroll machine's thermodynamic
state, leakage, forces, heat transfer, mechanical losses, etc. Hence an
accurate geometrical model needs to be established, which includes
dimensions such as, chamber volume and leakage area.