Air is compressed isothermally from 13 psia and 55°F to 80 psia in a reversible steady-flow device. Calculate the work required, in Btu/lbm, for this compression. The gas constant of air is R.

64.10 Btu/lbm

Explanation:

Work done in an isothermally compressed steady flow device is expressed as

Work done = P₁V₁ In { P₁/ P₂}

Work done=RT In { P₁/ P₂}

where P₁=13 psia

          P₂= 80 psia

Temperature =°F Temperature is convert to  °R

T(°R) = T(°F) + 459.67

T(°R) = 55°F+ 459.67

=514.67T(°R)

According to the properties of molar gas, gas constant and critical properties table, R  which s the gas constant of air is given as 0.06855 Btu/lbm

Work = RT In { P₁/ P₂}

0.06855 x 514.67 In { 13/ 80}

=0.06855 x 514.67 In {0.1625}

= 0.06855 x 514.67  x -1.817

=- 64.10Btu/lbm

The required work therefore for this  isothermal compression is 64.10 Btu/lbm