摘要 |
A small-scale, space-heating and electrical power co-generation system includes a heater and a pump for supplying high-pressure water to the heater. Within the heater, the high-pressure water is heated to at or near its saturation or boiling point so as to produce both vapor (e.g., steam) and liquid (e.g., water) fractions. This high pressure, two-phase mixture is then provided to an expander which expands the two-phase mixture to a lower pressure and, in the process, produces mechanical energy. The expander is coupled to an electrical generator so that the extracted mechanical energy can be used to drive the generator and thus produce electrical power. The fluid exiting the expander is then provided to a condenser. A space heating fluid (e.g., air or a separate water supply) is brought into proximity with the condenser so that it may be heated. This space heating fluid is then be distributed throughout the corresponding home or building for space heating purposes. Condensate exiting the condenser is returned to the pump, which is also powered by the generator, thereby completing the cycle of the working fluid. The electrical power generated by the system is not only sufficient to power the system itself, but excess electrical power is available for use within the corresponding home or building.
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