Simple Functions for the Fast Approximation of Light Water Thermodynamic Properties

Abstract

Thermohydraulic systems analysis and simulation requires the fast generation of light water thermodynamic properties. An approach suggested in the past is the use of simple, non-linear functions to give approximations to the properties. Such functions have been developed and are presented here. The range of use is from just below 1 atmosphere to 18 MPa, and from 90 degrees C to 450 degrees C. In the subcooled region the error is usually much less than 1 percent. These simple analytic functions provide an alternative to the use of linear interpolation algorithms and complex transcendental equations to generate light water thermodynamic properties. They are well suited to be made into computer subprograms, yet they are simple enough to be used with programmable calculators.