Apparatus and process for generation of energy by organic rankine cycle

Abstract

An apparatus (10) and a process for generation of energy through organic Rankine cycle (ORC) in which the heat exchanger (70) is of the hairpin type, so as to make the apparatus more flexible and optimise the cycle efficiency. The hairpin heat exchanger is able to stably carry out the preheating, once—through evaporation and superheating steps both at the nominal load and at the partial and transitory loads, either for sub-critical ORC cycles or for super-critical ORC cycles.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD[0001]The present invention relates to an apparatus and process for energy generation by organic Rankine cycle.BACKGROUND ART[0002]Apparatuses based on a thermodynamic Rankine cycle are known that convert thermal energy into mechanical and / or electric energy in a simple and reliable manner. In these (ORC) apparatus working fluids of the organic type (of high or medium molecular weight) are preferably used in place of the traditional water / vapour system, because an organic fluid is suitable for conversion of heat sources at relatively low temperatures, generally between 100° C. and 300° C., but also at higher temperatures, in a more efficient manner. The ORC conversion systems therefore have recently found increasingly wider applications in different sectors, such as in the geothermic field, in the industrial energy recovery, in apparatus for energy generation from biomasses and concentrated solar power (CSP), in regasifiers, etc.[0003]An apparatus of known type for co...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

The patent text describes the use of a hairpin heat exchanger in an apparatus for organic rankine cycle (ORC) that enhances flexibility, reduces the size of the plant, and reduces costs. The heat exchanger allows for once-through evaporation without the need for sub-cooling and can remain in operation under dry-running conditions. It also helps in achieving high thermal lengths with low mechanical stress, resulting in cheaper and more reliable plants. Additionally, the hairpin heat exchanger allows for heat exchange with large temperature differences between the fluid entry and exit, making it efficient.

Problems solved by technology

In addition, large exchange surfaces are required to make the vapour acquire sensible heat because the heat exchange coefficients of vapour are very low.

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