Optimal paths for minimizing lost available work during heat transfer processes with a generalized heat transfer law

A common of finite-time heat transfer processes between high- and low-temperature sides with a generalized heat transfer law [q ∝ (Δ(Tn ))m] are studied in this paper. The optimal heating and cooling configurations for minimizing lost available work are derived for the fixed initial and final temperatures of the working fluid of the system (low-temperature side). Optimal paths are compared with the common strategies of constant heat flux, constant source (reservoir) temperature and the minimum entropy generation operation by numerical examples. The condition corresponding to the minimum los...