Experimental validation of a dynamic waste heat recovery system model for control purposes

This paper presents the identification and validation of a dynamic Waste Heat Recovery (WHR) system model. Driven by upcoming CO2 emission targets and increasing fuel costs, engine exhaust gas heat utilization has recently attracted much attention to improve fuel efficiency, especially for heavy-duty automotive applications. In this study, we focus on a Euro-VI heavy-duty diesel engine, which is equipped with a Waste Heat Recovery system based on an Organic Rankine Cycle. The applied model, which combines first principle modelling with stationary component models, covers the two-phase flow behavior and the effect of control inputs. Furthermore, it describes the interaction with the engine on both gas and drivetrain side. Using engine dynamometer measurements, an optimal fit of unknown model parameters is determined for stationary operating points. From model validation, it is concluded that the identified model shows good accuracy in steady-state and can reasonably capture the most important dynamics over a wide range of operating conditions. The resulting real-time model is suitable for model-based control.