Heat Utilization in ORC Systems

摘要

Apparatus, systems and methods are provided for the improved use of waste heat recovery systems which utilize the organic Rankine cycle (ORC) to generate mechanical and/or electric power from heat sources generating power from byproducts of water purification process(es). Waste heat energy obtained from heat source(s) is provided to one or more ORC system(s) which may be operatively coupled to electric generator(s). A heat coupling subsystem provides the requisite condensation of ORC working fluid by transferring heat from ORC working fluid to one or more other process(es) or system(s), such as anaerobic digester tank(s), to provide heat energy that enhances the production of fuel for the prime mover(s) without requiring the consumption of additional energy for that purpose.

主权项

1. A wastewater treatment energy recovery system comprising:
A. one or more source(s) of heat energy; B. one or more water purification process(es)
i. configured to produce at least one byproduct suitable for use by said one or more source(s) to generate heat energy, andii. in byproduct sending communication with said one or more source(s) of heat energy; and C. at least one organic Rankine cycle (ORC) system comprising
i. a working fluid,ii. at least one heat exchanger in heat receiving communication with said one or more source(s) of heat energy and in heat sending communication with said working fluid,iii. one or more expander(s) in working fluid receiving communication with said at least one heat exchanger;iv. at least one power receiving apparatus in mechanical power receiving communication with each of said one or more expander(s),v. a heat coupling subsystem in working fluid receiving communication with each of said one or more expander(s), in heat energy receiving communication with said working fluid, and in heat sending communication with said one or more water purification process(es), andvi. at least one system pump in working fluid receiving communication with said heat coupling subsystem and in working fluid sending communication with said at least one heat exchanger.