A waste heat utilization system

Abstract

A waste heat utilization system comprises a condenser, a pump, an air-cooled heat exchanger, a liquid-cooled heat exchanger and a first device, wherein the first device can be used to realize the function of an expander and / or a compressor. The condenser, the pump, the air-cooled heat exchanger, the liquid-cooled heat exchanger and the first device are sequentially connected through pipelines to form a first circulation loop; when the first device is used to realize the function of the expander, the first circulation loop can convert the heat energy absorbed by the air-cooled heat exchanger and the heat energy absorbed by the liquid-cooled heat exchanger into mechanical energy. The condenser, the air-cooled heat exchanger and the first device are sequentially connected through pipelines to form a second circulation loop; when the first device is used to realize the function of the compressor, the second circulation loop can cool the medium at the air-cooled heat exchanger. In this way, the system can reuse part of the components and pipelines, and simultaneously realize the functions of refrigeration and conversion of heat energy into mechanical energy, thereby reducing the components required for waste heat utilization and cooling and reducing the space occupied by the system.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of thermal energy utilization, and more particularly to a waste heat utilization system. Background Technology

[0002] Data centers typically include server rooms and electronic equipment such as communication devices, storage devices, and power supply equipment located within them. In practical applications, some electronic devices generate a significant amount of heat during operation. To keep these devices within a normal temperature range, a cooling system is usually needed to dissipate heat from the electronic equipment in the server room. The cooling system may include evaporators, condensers, and compressors connected by pipes. When the cooling system is cooling, the evaporator has a lower temperature; therefore, the cooling capacity can be output from the evaporator to cool the electronic equipment in the data center. The evaporator may include air-cooled heat exchangers and / or liquid-cooled heat exchangers.

[0003] Furthermore, to make rational use of energy, the heat energy generated by the data center can be collected and utilized through a waste heat recovery system, for example, to generate electricity based on the heat energy generated by the data center. For example, a waste heat recovery system may include a condenser, a pump, an evaporator, and an expander connected by pipes. The pump pressurizes the liquid working fluid from the condenser and outputs the pressurized working fluid to the evaporator; the working fluid absorbs the heat energy generated by the data center at the evaporator; then, the working fluid can be input to the expander, where it converts the heat energy into mechanical energy by performing work; this mechanical energy can then be converted into electrical energy by a generator.

[0004] Currently, waste heat recovery systems and cooling systems are independent of each other; for example, they use separate pipes and condensers. Therefore, waste heat recovery systems and cooling systems require more components and occupy more space. Summary of the Invention

[0005] This application provides a waste heat recovery system for reducing the space occupied by the system.

[0006] In a first aspect, embodiments of this application provide a waste heat recovery system. The system includes a condenser, a pump, an air-cooled heat exchanger, a liquid-cooled heat exchanger, and a first device, wherein the first device can be used to perform the functions of an expander and / or a compressor. The condenser, pump, air-cooled heat exchanger, liquid-cooled heat exchanger, and the first device can be sequentially connected via pipes to form a first circulation loop; when the first device performs the function of an expander, the first circulation loop can be used to convert the heat energy absorbed by the air-cooled heat exchanger and the heat energy absorbed by the liquid-cooled heat exchanger into mechanical energy. The condenser, air-cooled heat exchanger, and the first device can be sequentially connected via pipes to form a second circulation loop; when the first device performs the function of a compressor, the second circulation loop can be used to cool the medium at the air-cooled heat exchanger.

[0007] In this system, some components and pipes can be reused in the first circulation loop for converting thermal energy into mechanical energy and the second circulation loop for refrigeration. This reduces the components required for waste heat utilization and cooling, reduces the space occupied by the system, and saves costs.

[0008] In one possible design, the first device may be an integrated compression and expansion machine. In this case, the system may also include a first valve, a second valve, a third valve, and a fourth valve.

[0009] The condenser and pump can be connected to the air-cooled heat exchanger via a first valve. The first valve controls the connection between the condenser and the air-cooled heat exchanger, as well as the connection between the pump and the air-cooled heat exchanger. When the first valve connects the pump and the air-cooled heat exchanger, it disconnects the connection between the condenser and the air-cooled heat exchanger.

[0010] The air-cooled heat exchanger can be connected to a third valve or a liquid-cooled heat exchanger via a second valve. The second valve can be used to control the connection status between the air-cooled heat exchanger and the third valve, as well as the connection status between the air-cooled heat exchanger and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger. When the second valve connects the air-cooled heat exchanger and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger, the second valve disconnects the connection between the air-cooled heat exchanger and the third valve.

[0011] The second valve and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger can be connected to the fourth valve via the third valve. The third valve can be used to control the connection status between the second and fourth valves, as well as the connection status between the liquid-cooled heat exchanger and the fourth valve. When the third valve connects the liquid-cooled heat exchanger and the fourth valve, it disconnects the connection between the second and fourth valves.

[0012] The third valve and the condenser can be connected to the compression-expansion unit via the fourth valve. The fourth valve can be used to control the compression-expansion unit to expand the working fluid from the third valve and then output the expanded working fluid to the condenser.

[0013] When the first valve is used to connect the passage between the pump and the air-cooled heat exchanger, the second valve is used to connect the passage between the air-cooled heat exchanger and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger, the third valve is used to connect the passage between the liquid-cooled heat exchanger and the fourth valve, and the fourth valve is used to control the integrated compressor-expander to expand the working fluid from the third valve and then output the expanded working fluid to the condenser, the first circulation loop is connected.

[0014] In this design, the system can control the connection of the first circulation loop through a simple valve.

[0015] In one possible design, the first end of the fourth valve is connected to the third valve, the second end of the fourth valve is connected to the first end of the integrated compressor-expander, the third end of the fourth valve is connected to the second end of the integrated compressor-expander, and the fourth end of the fourth valve is connected to the condenser. When the working fluid is input from the second end of the integrated compressor-expander, the integrated compressor-expander can function as an expander. Thus, when the first and third ends of the fourth valve are connected, and the second and fourth ends of the fourth valve are connected, the fourth valve can control the integrated compressor-expander to expand the working fluid from the third valve and then output the expanded working fluid to the condenser.

[0016] In this design, the system can control the integrated compression and expansion unit to achieve the function of an expander through a simple valve.

[0017] In one possible design, the first device is an integrated compression and expansion machine. In this case, the system may also include a first valve, a second valve, a third valve, and a fourth valve.

[0018] The condenser and pump can be connected to the air-cooled heat exchanger via a first valve. The first valve controls the connection between the condenser and the air-cooled heat exchanger, as well as the connection between the pump and the air-cooled heat exchanger. When the first valve connects the condenser and the air-cooled heat exchanger, it disconnects the connection between the pump and the air-cooled heat exchanger.

[0019] The air-cooled heat exchanger can be connected to a third valve or a liquid-cooled heat exchanger via a second valve. The second valve can be used to control the connection status between the air-cooled heat exchanger and the third valve, as well as the connection status between the air-cooled heat exchanger and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger. When the second valve connects the air-cooled heat exchanger and the third valve, the second valve disconnects the connection between the air-cooled heat exchanger and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger.

[0020] The second valve and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger can be connected to the fourth valve via the third valve. The third valve can be used to control the connection status between the second and fourth valves, as well as the connection status between the liquid-cooled heat exchanger and the fourth valve. When the third valve connects the passage between the second and fourth valves, it disconnects the passage between the liquid-cooled heat exchanger and the fourth valve.

[0021] The third valve and the condenser can be connected to the compression-expansion unit via the fourth valve. The fourth valve can be used to control the compression-expansion unit to compress the working fluid from the third valve and then output the compressed working fluid to the condenser.

[0022] When the first valve is used to connect the passage between the condenser and the air-cooled heat exchanger, the second valve is used to connect the passage between the air-cooled heat exchanger and the third valve, the third valve is used to connect the passage between the liquid-cooled heat exchanger and the fourth valve, and the fourth valve is used to control the integrated compressor-expansion unit to compress the working fluid from the third valve and then output the compressed working fluid to the condenser, the second circulation loop is connected.

[0023] In this design, the system can control the connection of the second circulation loop through a simple valve.

[0024] In one possible design, the first end of the fourth valve is connected to the third valve, the second end of the fourth valve is connected to the first end of the compressor-expander, the third end of the fourth valve is connected to the second end of the compressor-expander, and the fourth end of the fourth valve is connected to the condenser. When the working fluid is input from the first end of the compressor-expander, the compressor-expander functions as a compressor. Thus, when the first and second ends of the fourth valve are connected, and the third and fourth ends of the fourth valve are connected, the fourth valve controls the compressor-expander to compress the working fluid from the third valve and then output the compressed working fluid to the condenser.

[0025] In this design, the system can control the integrated compressor-expander unit to achieve the function of a compressor through a simple valve.

[0026] In one possible design, the condenser, pump, and liquid-cooled heat exchanger can be connected in sequence via pipes to form a third circulation loop, which can be used to cool the medium at the liquid-cooled heat exchanger.

[0027] With this design, some components and pipes can be reused in the first, second, and third circulation loops. The first circulation loop can be used to convert thermal energy into mechanical energy, while the second and third circulation loops can be used for refrigeration. This reduces the components required for waste heat utilization and cooling, reduces the space occupied by the system, and saves costs.

[0028] In one possible design, the system further includes a fifth valve and a sixth valve. The fifth valve can be installed on the pipe between the pump and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger, and is used to connect or disconnect the passage between the pump and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger. The sixth valve can be installed on the pipe between the liquid-cooled heat exchanger and the condenser, and is used to connect or disconnect the passage between the liquid-cooled heat exchanger and the condenser. When both the fifth valve and the sixth valve connect the passage between the liquid-cooled heat exchanger and the condenser, the third circulation loop is connected.

[0029] In this design, the system can control the connection of the third circulation loop through a simple valve.

[0030] In one possible design, the first equipment includes a compressor and an expander. In this case, the condenser, pump, air-cooled heat exchanger, liquid-cooled heat exchanger, and expander are connected in sequence via pipes to form a first circulation loop. The system may also include a seventh valve and an eighth valve.

[0031] The condenser and pump can be connected to the air-cooled heat exchanger via a seventh valve. This seventh valve controls the connection between the condenser and the air-cooled heat exchanger, as well as the connection between the pump and the air-cooled heat exchanger. When the seventh valve connects the pump and the air-cooled heat exchanger, it disconnects the connection between them.

[0032] The air-cooled heat exchanger can be connected to either the compressor or the liquid-cooled heat exchanger via the eighth valve. The eighth valve controls the connection between the air-cooled heat exchanger and the compressor, as well as the connection between the air-cooled and liquid-cooled heat exchangers. When the eighth valve connects the air-cooled and liquid-cooled heat exchangers, it disconnects the connection between the air-cooled heat exchanger and the compressor.

[0033] When the seventh valve is used to connect the passage between the pump and the air-cooled heat exchanger, and the eighth valve is used to connect the passage between the air-cooled heat exchanger and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger, the first circulation loop is connected.

[0034] In this design, the system can control the connection of the first circulation loop through a simple valve.

[0035] In one possible design, the first unit includes a compressor and an expander, in which case the condenser, air-cooled heat exchanger, and compressor are connected in sequence via piping to form a second circulation loop. The system may also include a seventh valve and an eighth valve.

[0036] The condenser and pump can be connected to the air-cooled heat exchanger via a seventh valve. This seventh valve controls the connection between the condenser and the air-cooled heat exchanger, as well as the connection between the pump and the air-cooled heat exchanger. When the seventh valve connects the condenser and the air-cooled heat exchanger, it disconnects the connection between the pump and the air-cooled heat exchanger.

[0037] The air-cooled heat exchanger can be connected to either the compressor or the liquid-cooled heat exchanger via the eighth valve. The eighth valve controls the connection between the air-cooled heat exchanger and the compressor, as well as the connection between the air-cooled and liquid-cooled heat exchangers. When the eighth valve connects the air-cooled heat exchanger and the compressor, it disconnects the connection between the air-cooled and liquid-cooled heat exchangers.

[0038] When the seventh valve is used to connect the passage between the condenser and the air-cooled heat exchanger, and the eighth valve is used to connect the passage between the air-cooled heat exchanger and the compressor, the second circulation loop is connected.

[0039] In this design, the system can control the connection of the second circulation loop through a simple valve.

[0040] In one possible design, the condenser, pump, liquid-cooled heat exchanger, and expander are connected in sequence via pipes to form a fourth circulation loop, which is used to convert the heat energy absorbed by the liquid-cooled heat exchanger into mechanical energy.

[0041] Through this design, some components and pipes can be reused in the first, second, and fourth circulation loops. The first and fourth circulation loops can convert thermal energy into mechanical energy, and the second circulation loop can be used for refrigeration. This reduces the components required for waste heat utilization and cooling, reduces the space occupied by the system, and saves costs.

[0042] In one possible design, the system further includes a ninth valve. This ninth valve can be installed on the pipe between the pump and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger to connect or disconnect the passage between them. When the ninth valve is used to connect the passage between the pump and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger, the fourth circulation loop is activated.

[0043] In this design, the system can control the connection of the fourth circulation loop through a simple valve.

[0044] In one possible design, the system further includes a tenth valve and an eleventh valve. Both the tenth and eleventh valves are located on the piping between the air-cooled heat exchanger and the condenser. The tenth valve connects or disconnects the passage between the air-cooled heat exchanger and the condenser; the eleventh valve controls the flow rate of the working fluid in the piping between the air-cooled heat exchanger and the condenser. In this design, a portion of the heat energy from the air-cooled heat exchanger can be used to preheat a portion of the working fluid output from the pump; this portion of the working fluid is output to the liquid-cooled heat exchanger, thereby improving power generation efficiency. Another portion of the working fluid can be naturally cooled after absorbing the remaining heat energy from the air-cooled heat exchanger, for example, through a refrigerant pump; this portion of the working fluid can be output to the condenser. Furthermore, by adjusting the opening of the eleventh valve, the flow rate of the working fluid can be adjusted, thereby controlling the proportion of heat energy from the air-cooled heat exchanger used to preheat the working fluid. Attached Figure Description

[0045] Figure 1 A structural diagram of the first waste heat utilization system provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0046] Figure 2A A structural diagram of a second waste heat utilization system provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0047] Figure 2B A schematic diagram of the first pathway provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0048] Figure 2CA structural diagram of the second pathway provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0049] Figure 2D A structural diagram of the third pathway provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0050] Figure 3A A structural diagram of the fourth pathway provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0051] Figure 3B A structural diagram of a third waste heat utilization system provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0052] Figure 3C A structural diagram of the fifth pathway provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0053] Figure 4 A structural diagram of the fourth waste heat utilization system provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0054] Figure 5A A structural diagram of the fifth waste heat utilization system provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0055] Figure 5B A structural diagram of the sixth pathway provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0056] Figure 5C A structural diagram of the seventh pathway provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0057] Figure 5D A structural diagram of the eighth pathway provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0058] Figure 6 A structural diagram of the sixth waste heat utilization system provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0059] Figure 7A A structural diagram of the ninth pathway provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0060] Figure 7B A structural diagram of the seventh waste heat utilization system provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0061] Figure 7C A structural diagram of the tenth pathway provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0062] Figure 8 A structural diagram of the eighth waste heat utilization system provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0063] Figure 9A A structural diagram of the ninth waste heat utilization system provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0064] Figure 9B A structural diagram of the eleventh pathway provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0065] Figure 9C This is a structural diagram of the twelfth pathway provided in the embodiments of this application. Detailed Implementation

[0066] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of this application clearer, the application will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0067] The following explanations of some terms used in this application are provided to facilitate understanding by those skilled in the art.

[0068] In this application, waste heat refers to usable thermal energy released during the production process. For example, a waste heat recovery system can collect and utilize the thermal energy generated by a data center, such as generating electricity based on the thermal energy generated by the data center. The thermal energy collected and utilized by the waste heat recovery system is thus considered waste heat.

[0069] In this application, the quality of thermal energy is used to characterize the ease or difficulty of utilizing thermal energy. The higher the quality of thermal energy, the easier it is to utilize; the lower the quality of thermal energy, the less easily it is to utilize. Furthermore, the quality of thermal energy can also be referred to as the quality of heat.

[0070] In this application, a compression-expansion integrated machine refers to a device capable of performing both compressor and expander functions. When the working fluid is input into the compression-expansion integrated machine from its first end, the machine compresses the working fluid, thus performing the function of a compressor. When the working fluid is input into the compression-expansion integrated machine from its second end, the machine expands the working fluid, thus performing the function of an expander.

[0071] In this application, the heat energy absorbed by the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 can also be referred to as air-cooled waste heat or air-cooled load; the heat energy absorbed by the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 can also be referred to as liquid-cooled waste heat or liquid-cooled load.

[0072] It should be noted that in the description of this application, "at least one" refers to one or more, where "multiple" refers to two or more. Therefore, in the embodiments of this application, "multiple" can also be understood as "at least two". "And / or" describes the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A alone, A and B simultaneously, and B alone. Additionally, the character " / ", unless otherwise specified, generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects have an "or" relationship. Furthermore, it should be understood that in the description of this application, words such as "first" and "second" are used only for descriptive purposes and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or order.

[0073] It should be noted that in this application, the connection between two components can be a direct or indirect connection between the two components. For example, the connection between A and B can be a direct connection between A and B, or an indirect connection between A and B through one or more components, such as the connection between A and B. Alternatively, A can be directly connected to C, C can be directly connected to B, and A and B can be connected through C.

[0074] The technical solutions in the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0075] This application provides a waste heat utilization system, such as... Figure 1 As shown, the waste heat utilization system may include: a condenser 11, a pump 12, an air-cooled heat exchanger 13, a liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14, and a first device 15. The first device 15 can be used to implement the functions of an expander and / or a compressor.

[0076] The condenser 11 can be connected to a cooling tower to cool the working fluid using the cooling capacity provided by the cooling tower. The working fluid may include water, ammonia, or Freon, and can circulate among the various components of the waste heat recovery system.

[0077] Pump 12 can also be called a working fluid pump, which is used to pressurize the working fluid.

[0078] Air-cooled heat exchanger 13 absorbs heat energy through heat exchange between the working fluid and the medium at air-cooled heat exchanger 13. Liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 absorbs heat energy through heat exchange between the working fluid and the medium at liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14. The medium can be air, water, etc. For example, in a waste heat recovery system, air-cooled heat exchanger 13 can provide 15-40% of the heat and heat the working fluid to 28°C; liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 can provide 60-85% of the heat and heat the working fluid to 45°C.

[0079] Optionally, the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 can be located in the data center to exchange heat with the media in the data center. The data center may include a computer room and electronic equipment such as communication equipment, storage equipment, and power supply equipment located within the computer room.

[0080] The first device 15 may be an integrated compression and expansion machine, or may include a compressor or an expander. The first device 15 may perform compression and / or expansion processing on the working fluid.

[0081] In this application, the condenser 11, pump 12, air-cooled heat exchanger 13, liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 and first device 15 can be connected in sequence through pipes to form a first circulation loop; the condenser 11, air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and first device 15 can be connected in sequence through pipes to form a second circulation loop.

[0082] Under one operating condition, the first device 15 is used to perform the function of an expander; the working fluid can circulate in the first circulation loop, thereby converting the heat energy absorbed by the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and the heat energy absorbed by the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 into mechanical energy.

[0083] For example, condenser 11 can cool the working fluid using the cooling capacity provided by a cooling tower, and then output the cooled working fluid to pump 12. Pump 12 can pressurize the working fluid from condenser 11 and output it to air-cooled heat exchanger 13. The working fluid can be preheated in air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and then output to liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14. Then, liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 can absorb heat energy through the working fluid and output the heat-absorbing working fluid to first device 15. When first device 15 functions as an expander, the working fluid can convert heat energy into mechanical energy by doing work. The gaseous working fluid generated by expansion is condensed in condenser 11.

[0084] Optionally, under operating conditions with low ambient temperatures (e.g., below a first temperature threshold), the cooling demand is low; and under low-temperature conditions, the efficiency of the power generation system is high. In this case, the first circulation loop can be connected, and the heat energy absorbed by the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and the heat energy absorbed by the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 can be converted into mechanical energy through the first circulation loop.

[0085] In another operating condition, the first device 15 is used to perform the function of a compressor; the working fluid can flow in the second circulation loop, thereby cooling the medium at the air-cooled heat exchanger 13.

[0086] For example, the condenser 11 can cool the working fluid using the cooling capacity provided by the cooling tower, and then output the cooled working fluid to the air-cooled heat exchanger 13. The air-cooled heat exchanger 13 can then cool the medium at the air-cooled heat exchanger using the cooled working fluid, and then output the working fluid to the condenser 11. This process can also be described as a process of achieving mechanical refrigeration through a direct expansion (DX) refrigeration system.

[0087] Optionally, when there is a cooling demand, for example, when the ambient temperature is greater than the second temperature threshold, the second circulation loop can be connected to cool the medium at the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 through the second circulation loop.

[0088] This system can reuse some components and pipes, and simultaneously achieve the functions of refrigeration and conversion of thermal energy into mechanical energy. This reduces the components required for waste heat utilization and cooling, reduces the space occupied by the system, and saves costs.

[0089] Optionally, in this application, the connection of the loop can be achieved through at least one of the following implementation methods.

[0090] Implementation method 1:

[0091] like Figure 2A As shown, the first device 15 is a compression-expansion integrated machine 151; the system also includes: a first valve 21, a second valve 22, a third valve 23, and a fourth valve 24. In this first implementation, the connection between the first circulation loop and / or the second circulation loop can be achieved through the above-mentioned valves, which will be explained in detail below.

[0092] I. Connection of the first loop

[0093] The condenser 11 and the pump 12 are connected to the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 via a first valve 21. The first valve 21 can be used to control the connection status between the condenser 11 and the air-cooled heat exchanger 13, as well as the connection status between the pump 12 and the air-cooled heat exchanger 13. Specifically, when the first valve 21 connects the passage between the pump 12 and the air-cooled heat exchanger 13, the first valve 21 disconnects the passage between the condenser 11 and the air-cooled heat exchanger 13.

[0094] For example, such as Figure 2A As shown, end A1 of the first valve 21 is connected to the input end of the air-cooled heat exchanger 13, end B1 of the first valve 21 is connected to the output end of the condenser 11, and end C1 of the first valve 21 is connected to the output end of the pump 12. When ends A1 and C1 of the first valve 21 are connected, the passage between the condenser 11 and the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 is disconnected, while the passage between the pump 12 and the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 is connected.

[0095] The air-cooled heat exchanger 13 is connected to the third valve 23 or the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 via the second valve 22. The second valve 22 can be used to control the connection status between the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and the third valve 23, as well as the connection status between the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14. Specifically, when the second valve 22 connects the passage between the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14, the second valve 22 disconnects the passage between the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and the third valve 23.

[0096] For example, such as Figure 2A As shown, terminal A2 of the second valve 22 is connected to the output terminal of the air-cooled heat exchanger 13, terminal B2 of the second valve 22 is connected to terminal B3 of the third valve 23, and terminal C2 of the second valve 22 is connected to the input terminal of the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14. When terminals A2 and C2 of the second valve 22 are connected, the passage between the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and the third valve 23 is disconnected, and the passage between the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 is connected.

[0097] The second valve 22 and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 are connected to the fourth valve 24 via the third valve 23. The third valve 23 is used to control the connection state between the second valve 22 and the fourth valve 24, as well as the connection state between the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 and the fourth valve 24. Specifically, when the third valve 23 connects the passage between the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 and the fourth valve 24, the third valve 23 disconnects the passage between the second valve 22 and the fourth valve 24.

[0098] For example, such as Figure 2A As shown, terminal A3 of the third valve 23 is connected to terminal E of the fourth valve 24, terminal B3 of the third valve 23 is connected to terminal B2 of the second valve 22, and terminal C3 of the third valve 23 is connected to the output terminal of the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14. When terminals A3 and C3 of the third valve 23 are connected, the passage between the second valve 22 and the fourth valve 24 is broken, and the passage between the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 and the fourth valve 24 is connected.

[0099] The third valve 23 and the condenser 11 are connected to the compression-expansion unit 151 via the fourth valve 24. The fourth valve 24 is used to control the compression-expansion unit 151 to expand the working fluid from the third valve 23 and then output the expanded working fluid to the condenser 11.

[0100] Optionally, the first end of the fourth valve 24 is connected to the third valve 23, the second end of the fourth valve 24 is connected to the first end of the integrated compressor-expander 151, the third end of the fourth valve 24 is connected to the second end of the integrated compressor-expander 151, and the fourth end of the fourth valve 24 is connected to the condenser 11. When the working fluid is input from the second end of the integrated compressor-expander 151, the integrated compressor-expander 151 functions as an expander. Therefore, when the first and third ends of the fourth valve 24 are connected, and the second and fourth ends of the fourth valve 24 are connected, the fourth valve 24 controls the integrated compressor-expander 151 to expand the working fluid from the third valve 23 and then output the expanded working fluid to the condenser 11. This system achieves the function of an expander by controlling the integrated compressor-expander 151 with simple valves, making it relatively simple to implement.

[0101] For example, such as Figure 2AAs shown, the E end of the fourth valve 24 is connected to the A3 end of the third valve 23, the S end of the fourth valve 24 is connected to the first end of the integrated compressor-expander 151, the D end of the fourth valve 24 is connected to the second end of the integrated compressor-expander 151, and the C end of the fourth valve 24 is connected to the input end of the condenser 11. When the D and E ends of the fourth valve 24 are connected, and the S and C ends are connected, the working fluid flows into the integrated compressor-expander 151 from the second end of the integrated compressor-expander 151. After the integrated compressor-expander 151 expands the working fluid, it is then fed into the condenser 11.

[0102] In practical applications, the first valve 21 connects the passage between the pump 12 and the air-cooled heat exchanger 13; the second valve 22 connects the passage between the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14; the third valve 23 connects the passage between the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 and the fourth valve 24; and the fourth valve 24 controls the integrated compression-expansion unit 151 to expand the working fluid from the third valve 23 before outputting the expanded working fluid to the condenser 11, thus achieving the connection of the first circulation loop. In this way, the system can control the connection of the first circulation loop with simple valves.

[0103] Figure 2B The structure of the first circulation loop is shown. Through the first circulation loop, the thermal energy absorbed by the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and the thermal energy absorbed by the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 can be converted into mechanical energy.

[0104] II. Connection of the Second Loop

[0105] The condenser 11 and the pump 12 are connected to the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 via a first valve 21. The first valve 21 can be used to control the connection status between the condenser 11 and the air-cooled heat exchanger 13, as well as the connection status between the pump 12 and the air-cooled heat exchanger 13. Specifically, when the first valve 21 connects the passage between the condenser 11 and the air-cooled heat exchanger 13, the first valve 21 can disconnect the passage between the pump 12 and the air-cooled heat exchanger 13.

[0106] For example, such as Figure 2A As shown, when the A1 and B1 ends of the first valve 21 are connected, the passage between the condenser 11 and the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 is connected, while the passage between the pump 12 and the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 is disconnected.

[0107] The air-cooled heat exchanger 13 is connected to the third valve 23 or the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 via the second valve 22. The second valve 22 can be used to control the connection status between the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and the third valve 23, as well as the connection status between the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14. Specifically, when the second valve 22 connects the passage between the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and the third valve 23, the second valve 22 disconnects the passage between the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14.

[0108] For example, such as Figure 2A As shown, when the A2 and B2 ends of the second valve 22 are connected, the passage between the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and the third valve 23 is connected, and the passage between the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 is disconnected.

[0109] The second valve 22 and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 are connected to the fourth valve 24 via the third valve 23. The third valve 23 is used to control the connection state between the second valve 22 and the fourth valve 24, as well as the connection state between the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 and the fourth valve 24. Specifically, when the third valve 23 connects the passage between the second valve 22 and the fourth valve 24, the third valve 23 disconnects the passage between the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 and the fourth valve 24.

[0110] For example, such as Figure 2A As shown, when the A3 and B3 ends of the third valve 23 are connected, the passage between the second valve 22 and the fourth valve 24 is connected, and the passage between the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 and the fourth valve 24 is disconnected.

[0111] The third valve 23 and the condenser 11 are connected to the compression-expansion unit 151 via the fourth valve 24. The fourth valve 24 can be used to control the compression-expansion unit 151 to compress the working fluid from the third valve 23 and then output the compressed working fluid to the condenser 11.

[0112] Optionally, the first end of the fourth valve 24 is connected to the third valve 23, the second end of the fourth valve 24 is connected to the first end of the integrated compressor-expander 151, the third end of the fourth valve 24 is connected to the second end of the integrated compressor-expander 151, and the fourth end of the fourth valve 24 is connected to the condenser 11. When the working fluid is input from the first end of the integrated compressor-expander 151, the integrated compressor-expander 151 functions as a compressor. Therefore, when the first and second ends of the fourth valve 24 are connected, and the third and fourth ends of the fourth valve 24 are connected, the fourth valve 24 can be used to control the integrated compressor-expander 151 to compress the working fluid from the third valve 23 and then output the compressed working fluid to the condenser 11. This system achieves the function of a compressor through simple valve control of the integrated compressor-expander 151, making it relatively simple to implement.

[0113] For example, such as Figure 2A As shown, when the D and C ends of the fourth valve 24 are connected, and the S and E ends are connected, the working fluid flows into the compression-expansion integrated machine 151 from the first end. After the compression-expansion integrated machine 151 compresses the working fluid, it inputs the working fluid into the condenser 11.

[0114] In practical applications, the first valve 21 connects the passage between the condenser 11 and the air-cooled heat exchanger 13; the second valve 22 connects the passage between the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and the third valve 23; the third valve 23 connects the passage between the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 and the fourth valve 24; and the fourth valve 24 controls the integrated compression-expansion unit 151 to compress the working fluid from the third valve 23 and then output the compressed working fluid to the condenser 11, thereby achieving the connection of the second circulation loop. In this way, the system can control the connection of the second circulation loop with simple valves.

[0115] Figure 2C The structure of the second circulation loop is shown. The medium at the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 can be cooled through the second circulation loop.

[0116] Since the system can control the connection of the first or second circulation loop through a simple valve, it can effectively switch between the two circulation loops.

[0117] Optionally, at least one of the first valve 21, the second valve 22, and the third valve 23 may be a three-way valve; the fourth valve 24 may be a four-way valve. At least one of the first valve 21 to the fourth valve 24 may be controlled manually or automatically, and this application does not limit this.

[0118] Furthermore, in practical applications, the operating power of pump 12 can be less than the first operating power threshold. The first operating power threshold can be preset. When the operating power of pump 12 is less than the first operating power threshold, the working fluid can flow smoothly in the first circulation loop, thereby reducing the operating cost and power consumption cost of pump 12.

[0119] Optionally, in this implementation method one, such as Figure 2D As shown, the condenser 11, the air-cooled heat exchanger 13, the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14, and the integrated compression and expansion unit 151 can be connected in sequence through pipes to form a circulation loop A.

[0120] Under certain operating conditions (e.g., when a user has a heating demand), the integrated compressor-expansion unit 151 functions as a compressor; the working fluid circulates in the circulation loop A, thereby transferring the heat energy absorbed by the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 to the condenser 11. At this time, the condenser 11 can be connected to the heating network, thereby providing heating through the heat energy absorbed by the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14.

[0121] For example, when the working fluid flows through the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14, it can absorb heat energy from the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14; then, the working fluid can exchange heat with the medium in the condenser 11, thereby providing heat energy to the heating network. The working fluid for heat exchange can be sequentially introduced into the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14.

[0122] This system allows all the heat energy absorbed by the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 to be used for heating.

[0123] In this application, the connection of circulation loop A can be achieved through the first valve 21 to the fourth valve 24. Specifically, the first valve 21 connects the passage between the condenser 11 and the air-cooled heat exchanger 13, the second valve 22 connects the passage between the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14, the third valve 23 connects the passage between the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 and the fourth valve 24, and the fourth valve 24 controls the integrated compressor-expansion unit 151 to compress the working fluid from the third valve 23 and output the compressed working fluid to the condenser 11, thereby achieving the connection of circulation loop A.

[0124] Optionally, in this implementation, the condenser 11, pump 12, and liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 can be connected sequentially via pipes to form a third circulation loop. The structure of the third circulation loop can be as follows: Figure 3A As shown.

[0125] Under one operating condition, the working fluid can circulate in the third circulation loop, thereby cooling the medium at the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14.

[0126] For example, the condenser 11 can cool the working fluid using the cooling capacity provided by the cooling tower, and then output the cooled working fluid to the pump 12. The pump 12 pressurizes the working fluid and outputs the pressurized working fluid to the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14. The liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 can cool the medium at its location using the cooled working fluid, and then output the working fluid to the condenser 11. Through this process, the working fluid absorbs heat through the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 and can then be naturally cooled by the pump 12.

[0127] To achieve connectivity of the third loop, such as Figure 3B As shown, the system may also include a fifth valve 31 and a sixth valve 32. The fifth valve 31 and the sixth valve 32 can be used to control the connection of the third circulation loop, which will be described in detail below.

[0128] The fifth valve 31 can be installed on the pipeline between the pump 12 and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 to connect or disconnect the passage between the pump 12 and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14. Optionally, the two ends of the fifth valve 31 are connected to the output end of the pump 12 and the input end of the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14, respectively.

[0129] The sixth valve 32 can be installed on the pipeline between the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 and the condenser 11 to connect or disconnect the passage between the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 and the condenser 11. Optionally, the two ends of the sixth valve 32 are connected to the output end of the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 and the input end of the condenser 11, respectively.

[0130] In practical applications, the passage between pump 12 and liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 can be connected through the fifth valve 31, and the passage between liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 and condenser 11 can be connected through the sixth valve 32, thereby achieving the connection of the third circulation loop. In this way, the connection of the third circulation loop can be achieved through simple valves.

[0131] Optionally, at least one of the fifth valve 31 and the sixth valve 32 may be a shut-off valve. At least one of the fifth valve 31 and the sixth valve 32 may be controlled manually or automatically; this application does not limit this.

[0132] In addition, the second and third loops can be connected simultaneously. Figure 3C The structure combining the second and third loops is shown. (Example) Figure 3C As shown, the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 can share the condenser 11, thereby simultaneously cooling the medium at the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and the medium at the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14, and reducing the space required by the system.

[0133] In addition, Figure 3C In the illustrated structure, the cooling capacity output to the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 can be controlled by the compressor-expansion unit 151 and the pump 12, which function as a compressor. For example, the cooling capacity output to the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 can be increased by increasing the speed of the pump 12 and / or decreasing the speed of the compressor-expansion unit 151. Similarly, the cooling capacity output to the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 can be increased by decreasing the speed of the pump 12 and / or increasing the speed of the compressor-expansion unit 151.

[0134] Optional, such as Figure 4 As shown, the system also includes: tenth valve 41 and eleventh valve 42.

[0135] The tenth valve 41 and the eleventh valve 42 are both installed on the pipe between the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and the condenser 11. For example, the tenth valve 41 and the eleventh valve 42 can be connected by a pipe to form a series passage; the two ends of the series passage are respectively connected to the output end of the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and the input end of the condenser 11.

[0136] The tenth valve 41 can be used to connect or disconnect the passage between the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and the condenser 11; the eleventh valve 42 can be used to control the flow rate of the working fluid in the pipe between the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and the condenser 11.

[0137] Optionally, when the first circulation loop is connected, the passage between the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and the condenser 11 can be connected through the tenth valve 41; the flow rate of the working fluid in the pipe between the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and the condenser 11 can be controlled through the eleventh valve 42. That is, a bypass pipe is provided at the output end of the air-cooled heat exchanger 13, which includes the tenth valve 41 and the eleventh valve 42. By setting this bypass pipe, the working fluid output from the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 can be divided into two parts. One part of the working fluid is preheated by absorbing part of the heat energy of the air-cooled heat exchanger 13. In other words, part of the heat energy of the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 can be used to preheat part of the working fluid output from the pump 12; this part of the working fluid is output to the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14, thereby improving power generation efficiency. The other part of the working fluid can be naturally cooled after absorbing the remaining heat energy of the air-cooled heat exchanger 13, for example, by natural cooling through a refrigerant pump; this part of the working fluid can be output to the condenser 11. Furthermore, by adjusting the opening of the eleventh valve 42, the flow rate of the working fluid can be adjusted, thereby controlling the proportion of heat energy in the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 used for preheating the working fluid.

[0138] Optionally, the tenth valve 41 can be a shut-off valve, and the eleventh valve 42 can be a throttle valve. At least one of the tenth valve 41 and the eleventh valve 42 can be controlled manually or automatically; this application does not limit this.

[0139] In addition, when the working fluid flows through the eleventh valve 42, the eleventh valve 42 will create a certain resistance to the flow of the working fluid. Therefore, in practical applications, a pump 12 with a larger working power (for example, a working power greater than the second working power threshold) can be selected to ensure the effective flow of the refrigerant.

[0140] Example 5A illustrates one possible structure for the waste heat power generation system in implementation method one. Figure 5A As shown, in Figure 4 Based on the system shown, the system also includes: valve 51.

[0141] The two ends of valve 51 are connected to condenser 11 and first valve 21, respectively. Optionally, the two ends of valve 51 are connected to the output end of condenser 11 and B1 end of first valve 21, respectively.

[0142] Valve 51 can be used to control the flow rate of the working fluid in the pipeline between condenser 11 and first valve 21. Optionally, valve 51 can be a throttle valve. Valve 51 can be controlled manually or automatically, and this application does not limit this.

[0143] The following example illustrates this. Figure 5A The system shown is applied under different operating conditions.

[0144] In the first operating condition, for example, when the ambient temperature is below a first temperature threshold, the working fluid can... Figure 5B The channel shown allows for circulation. The condenser 11, pump 12, air-cooled heat exchanger 13, liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14, and integrated compression-expansion unit 151 can be connected sequentially via pipes to form a first circulation loop. An eleventh valve 42 is installed on the pipe between the output end of the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and the condenser 11. This eleventh valve 42 is a throttling valve.

[0145] In this first operating condition, pump 12 is in operation; the integrated compressor-expander 151 functions as an expander; condenser 11 is connected to a cooling tower; thus, the heat energy absorbed by the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and the heat energy absorbed by the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 can be converted into mechanical energy. Part of the heat energy absorbed by the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and all of the heat energy absorbed by the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 can be used to convert into mechanical energy for power generation; the remaining heat energy absorbed by the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 can be naturally cooled. Since part of the heat energy absorbed by the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 can preheat the working fluid at the outlet of pump 12, the power generation efficiency can be improved.

[0146] In practical implementation, this can be achieved by connecting terminals A1 and C1 of the first valve 21, terminals A2 and C2 of the second valve 22, terminals A3 and C3 of the third valve 23; terminals D and E of the fourth valve 24, terminals S and C of the fourth valve 24; closing the fifth valve 31 and the sixth valve 32; and opening the tenth valve 41. Figure 5B The pathway shown.

[0147] In the second operating condition, for example, when the ambient temperature is greater than the second temperature threshold, the working fluid can be used as follows: Figure 5CThe flow occurs in the channel shown. The condenser 11, valve 51, air-cooled heat exchanger 13, and integrated compressor-expander 151 can be connected sequentially via pipes to form circulation loop B; the condenser 11, pump 12, and liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 can be connected sequentially via pipes to form a third circulation loop. In this second operating condition, pump 12 is in operation; the integrated compressor-expander 151 functions as a compressor; and the condenser 11 is connected to a cooling tower, thereby cooling the medium at the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14.

[0148] In practical implementation, this can be achieved by connecting terminals A1 and B1 of the first valve 21, terminals A2 and B2 of the second valve 22, terminals A3 and B3 of the third valve 23, terminals D and C of the fourth valve 24, terminals S and E of the fourth valve 24, opening the fifth valve 31 and the sixth valve 32, and closing the tenth valve 41. Figure 5C The pathway shown.

[0149] In the third operating condition, for example, when there is a heating demand, the working fluid can be used in the following ways: Figure 5D The channel shown allows for circulation. The condenser 11, valve 51, air-cooled heat exchanger 13, liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14, and compressor-expansion unit 151 can be sequentially connected via pipes to form a circulation loop C. In this third operating condition, pump 12 is in the off state; the compressor-expansion unit 151 functions as a compressor; and the condenser 11 is connected to the heating network. Thus, the system containing circulation loop C can be called a heat pump system, which utilizes the heat energy absorbed by the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 for heating. Specifically, after the working fluid absorbs heat energy at the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14, the compressor-expansion unit 151, which functions as a compressor, can compress the working fluid output from the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 to a high-temperature, high-pressure state, thereby improving the quality of the heat energy used for heating.

[0150] In practical implementation, this can be achieved by connecting terminals A1 and B1 of the first valve 21, terminals A2 and C2 of the second valve 22, terminals A3 and C3 of the third valve 23, terminals D and C of the fourth valve 24, terminals S and E of the fourth valve 24, and closing the fifth valve 31, the sixth valve 32, and the tenth valve 41. Figure 5D The pathway shown.

[0151] Figure 5A The system shown can be used in various operating conditions to match the changing needs of data centers and users, effectively utilize the heat generated by the data center, and improve the energy efficiency of the data center. Furthermore, the system can reuse some components and piping, thereby reducing the space occupied by the system and saving costs.

[0152] Implementation Method Two:

[0153] like Figure 6 As shown, the first device 15 includes a compressor 152 and an expander 153. The condenser 11, pump 12, air-cooled heat exchanger 13, liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 and expander 153 are connected in sequence by pipes to form a first circulation loop; and / or, the condenser 11, air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and compressor 152 are connected in sequence by pipes to form a second circulation loop.

[0154] In addition, the system also includes a seventh valve 61 and an eighth valve 62. In this second implementation, the connection between the first circulation loop and / or the second circulation loop can be achieved through the aforementioned valves, which will be explained in detail below.

[0155] 1. Connection of the first loop

[0156] The condenser 11 and pump 12 are connected to the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 via a seventh valve 61. The seventh valve 61 can be used to control the connection status between the condenser 11 and the air-cooled heat exchanger 13, as well as the connection status between the pump 12 and the air-cooled heat exchanger 13. Specifically, when the seventh valve 61 connects the flow between the pump 12 and the air-cooled heat exchanger 13, the seventh valve 61 disconnects the flow between the condenser 11 and the air-cooled heat exchanger 13.

[0157] For example, such as Figure 6 As shown, terminal A4 of the seventh valve 61 is connected to the input terminal of the air-cooled heat exchanger 13, terminal B4 of the seventh valve 61 is connected to the output terminal of the condenser 11, and terminal C4 of the seventh valve 61 is connected to the output terminal of the pump 12. When terminals A4 and C4 of the seventh valve 61 are connected, the passage between the condenser 11 and the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 is disconnected, and the passage between the pump 12 and the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 is connected.

[0158] The air-cooled heat exchanger 13 is connected to either the compressor 152 or the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 via an eighth valve 62. The eighth valve 62 can be used to control the connection status between the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and the compressor 152, as well as the connection status between the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14. Specifically, when the eighth valve 62 connects the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14, the eighth valve 62 disconnects the connection between the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and the compressor 152.

[0159] For example, such as Figure 6 As shown, terminal A5 of the eighth valve 62 is connected to the output terminal of the air-cooled heat exchanger 13, terminal B5 of the eighth valve 62 is connected to the input terminal of the compressor 152, and terminal C5 of the eighth valve 62 is connected to the input terminal of the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14. When terminals A5 and C5 of the eighth valve 62 are connected, the passage between the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and the compressor 152 is disconnected, and the passage between the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 is connected.

[0160] In practical applications, the passage between pump 12 and air-cooled heat exchanger 13 can be connected via the seventh valve 61, and the passage between air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 can be connected via the eighth valve 62, thereby achieving the connection of the first circulation loop. In this way, the system can control the connection of the first circulation loop with simple valves, and convert the heat energy absorbed by air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and heat energy absorbed by liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 into mechanical energy through the first circulation loop.

[0161] 2. Connection of the second loop

[0162] The condenser 11 and pump 12 are connected to the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 via a seventh valve 61. The seventh valve 61 can be used to control the connection status between the condenser 11 and the air-cooled heat exchanger 13, as well as the connection status between the pump 12 and the air-cooled heat exchanger 13. Specifically, when the seventh valve 61 connects the passage between the condenser 11 and the air-cooled heat exchanger 13, the seventh valve 61 disconnects the passage between the pump 12 and the air-cooled heat exchanger 13.

[0163] For example, such as Figure 6 As shown, when terminals A4 and B4 of the seventh valve 61 are connected, the passage between the condenser 11 and the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 is connected, while the passage between the pump 12 and the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 is disconnected.

[0164] The air-cooled heat exchanger 13 is connected to either the compressor 152 or the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 via an eighth valve 62. The eighth valve 62 can be used to control the connection status between the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and the compressor 152, as well as the connection status between the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14. Specifically, when the eighth valve 62 connects the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and the compressor 152, it disconnects the connection between the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14.

[0165] For example, such as Figure 6 As shown, when the A5 and B5 ends of the eighth valve 62 are connected, the passage between the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and the compressor 152 is connected, and the passage between the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 is disconnected.

[0166] In practical applications, the passage between the condenser 11 and the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 can be connected via the seventh valve 61, and the passage between the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and the compressor 152 can be connected via the eighth valve 62, thereby realizing the connection of the second circulation loop. In this way, the system can control the connection of the second circulation loop with simple valves, and cool the medium at the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 through the second circulation loop.

[0167] Since the system can control the connection of the first or second circulation loop through a simple valve, it can effectively switch between the two circulation loops.

[0168] Optionally, at least one of the seventh valve 61 and the eighth valve 62 may be a three-way valve. At least one of the seventh valve 61 and the eighth valve 62 may be controlled manually or automatically; this application does not limit this.

[0169] In addition, for pump 12, in practical applications, a model with a smaller operating power can be selected so that the working fluid can flow smoothly in the first circulation loop, thereby reducing the operating cost and power consumption cost of pump 12.

[0170] Optionally, in this second implementation, the condenser 11, pump 12, liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14, and expander 153 are sequentially connected by pipes to form a fourth circulation loop. The structure of the fourth circulation loop is as follows: Figure 7A As shown.

[0171] Under one operating condition, the working fluid can circulate in the fourth circulation loop, thereby converting the heat energy absorbed by the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 into mechanical energy.

[0172] For example, condenser 11 can cool the working fluid using the cooling capacity provided by a cooling tower, and then output the cooled working fluid to pump 12. Pump 12 can pressurize the working fluid from condenser 11 and output it to liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14. Liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 can then absorb heat energy from the working fluid and output the heat-absorbing working fluid to first device 15. When first device 15 functions as expander 153, it can convert heat energy into mechanical energy by performing work. The gaseous working fluid generated during expansion is condensed in condenser 11. Thus, all the heat energy absorbed by liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 can be used for power generation.

[0173] To achieve connectivity of the fourth loop, such as Figure 7B As shown, the system also includes a ninth valve 71. The ninth valve 71 can be used to control the connection of the fourth circulation loop, which will be described in detail below.

[0174] The ninth valve 71 is installed on the pipeline between the pump 12 and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14, and can be used to connect or disconnect the passage between the pump 12 and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14. Optionally, the two ends of the ninth valve 71 are connected to the output end of the pump 12 and the input end of the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14, respectively.

[0175] In practical applications, the passage between pump 12 and liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 can be connected through the ninth valve 71, thereby realizing the connection of the fourth circulation loop. The heat energy absorbed by liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 is converted into mechanical energy through the fourth circulation loop. In this way, the connection of the fourth circulation loop can be achieved through a simple valve.

[0176] Optionally, the ninth valve 71 can be a shut-off valve. The ninth valve 71 can be controlled manually or automatically; this application does not limit this.

[0177] In addition, the second and fourth loops can be connected simultaneously. Figure 7C The structure combining the second and fourth loops is shown. (Example) Figure 7C As shown, the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 can share the condenser 11, thereby reducing the space occupied by the system. Furthermore, Figure 7C The structure shown can convert the heat energy absorbed by the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 into mechanical energy while cooling the medium at the air-cooled heat exchanger 13; thus, power generation can be carried out regardless of the ambient temperature.

[0178] Optional, such as Figure 8 As shown, the system also includes: a tenth valve 41 and an eleventh valve 42. For details regarding the tenth valve 41 and the eleventh valve 42, please refer to the... Figure 4 The explanation will not be repeated here.

[0179] Figure 9A This illustrates one possible structure of the waste heat power generation system in implementation method one. For example... Figure 9A As shown, in Figure 8 Based on the system shown, the system also includes: valve 51.

[0180] For details regarding valve 51, please refer to the section on... Figure 5A The explanation is simply that the first valve 21 is replaced with the seventh valve 61, and the B1 end of the first valve 21 is replaced with the B4 end of the seventh valve 61. Further details will not be provided here.

[0181] The following example illustrates this. Figure 9A The system shown is applied under different operating conditions.

[0182] In the first operating condition, for example, when the ambient temperature is below the first temperature threshold, the working fluid can... Figure 9B The channels shown allow for the flow of heat, thereby converting the heat energy absorbed by the air-cooled heat exchanger 13 and the heat energy absorbed by the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 into mechanical energy.

[0183] In practical implementation, this can be achieved by connecting terminals A4 and C4 of the seventh valve 61, connecting terminals A5 and C5 of the eighth valve 62, closing the ninth valve 71, and opening the tenth valve 41. Figure 9B The pathway shown.

[0184] In the second operating condition, for example, when the ambient temperature is greater than the second temperature threshold, the working fluid can... Figure 9C The channels shown facilitate circulation. The condenser 11, valve 51, air-cooled heat exchanger 13, and compressor 152 are sequentially connected via pipes to form loop B; the condenser 11, pump 12, liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14, and expander 153 are sequentially connected via pipes to form a fourth loop. In this way, while cooling the medium at the air-cooled heat exchanger 13, the heat energy absorbed by the liquid-cooled heat exchanger 14 is converted into mechanical energy.

[0185] In practical implementation, this can be achieved by connecting terminals A4 and B4 of the seventh valve 61, connecting terminals A5 and B5 of the eighth valve 62, opening the ninth valve 71, and closing the tenth valve 41. Figure 9C The pathway shown.

[0186] In addition, waste heat recovery systems can be configured in various scenarios that require cooling or utilization of thermal energy.

[0187] For example, waste heat recovery systems can be applied to data centers to cool electronic equipment or utilize the heat generated by such equipment. Taking a 500 kW data center in Ulanqab as an example, the system shown in this application can generate 241,000 kWh of electricity annually, producing direct economic benefits of RMB 168,600 per year, with a theoretical investment payback period of 1.8 years. This will save 29.6 tons of standard coal annually and reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions by 231 tons per year.

[0188] It is understood that this application does not limit the application scenarios of waste heat systems.

[0189] The above are merely specific embodiments of this application, but the scope of protection of this application is not limited thereto. Any variations or substitutions that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art within the scope of the technology disclosed in this application should be included within the scope of protection of this application. Therefore, the scope of protection of this application should be determined by the scope of the claims.

Claims

1. A waste heat recovery system, characterized in that, include: The condenser, pump, air-cooled heat exchanger, liquid-cooled heat exchanger, and first device, wherein the first device is used to perform the functions of an expander and / or a compressor; The condenser, the pump, the air-cooled heat exchanger, the liquid-cooled heat exchanger, and the first device are connected in sequence by pipes to form a first circulation loop; when the first device performs the function of an expander, the first circulation loop is used to convert the heat energy absorbed by the air-cooled heat exchanger and the heat energy absorbed by the liquid-cooled heat exchanger into mechanical energy. The condenser, the air-cooled heat exchanger, and the first device are connected in sequence by pipes to form a second circulation loop; when the first device performs the function of a compressor, the second circulation loop is used to cool the medium at the air-cooled heat exchanger. The condenser, the pump, and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger are connected in sequence by pipes to form a third circulation loop, which is used to cool the medium at the liquid-cooled heat exchanger. The system further includes a tenth valve and an eleventh valve, both of which are installed on the pipeline between the air-cooled heat exchanger and the condenser. The tenth valve is used to connect or disconnect the passage between the air-cooled heat exchanger and the condenser; the eleventh valve is used to control the flow rate of the working fluid in the pipeline between the air-cooled heat exchanger and the condenser.

2. The system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The first device is an integrated compression and expansion machine, and the system further includes: a first valve, a second valve, a third valve, and a fourth valve. The condenser and the pump are connected to the air-cooled heat exchanger via the first valve; wherein, the first valve is used to control the connection state between the condenser and the air-cooled heat exchanger, and to control the connection state between the pump and the air-cooled heat exchanger; when the first valve connects the passage between the pump and the air-cooled heat exchanger, the first valve disconnects the passage between the condenser and the air-cooled heat exchanger. The air-cooled heat exchanger is connected to the third valve or the liquid-cooled heat exchanger via the second valve; wherein, the second valve is used to control the connection state between the air-cooled heat exchanger and the third valve, and to control the connection state between the air-cooled heat exchanger and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger; when the second valve connects the passage between the air-cooled heat exchanger and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger, the second valve disconnects the passage between the air-cooled heat exchanger and the third valve; The second valve and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger are connected to the fourth valve through the third valve; wherein, the third valve is used to control the connection state between the second valve and the fourth valve, and to control the connection state between the liquid-cooled heat exchanger and the fourth valve; when the third valve connects the passage between the liquid-cooled heat exchanger and the fourth valve, the third valve disconnects the passage between the second valve and the fourth valve; The third valve and the condenser are connected to the integrated compression and expansion machine via the fourth valve; wherein, the fourth valve is used to control the integrated compression and expansion machine to expand the working fluid from the third valve and then output the expanded working fluid to the condenser; When the first valve is used to connect the passage between the pump and the air-cooled heat exchanger, the second valve is used to connect the passage between the air-cooled heat exchanger and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger, the third valve is used to connect the passage between the liquid-cooled heat exchanger and the fourth valve, and the fourth valve is used to control the integrated compression-expansion machine to expand the working fluid from the third valve and then output the expanded working fluid to the condenser, the first circulation loop is connected.

3. The system as described in claim 2, characterized in that, The first end of the fourth valve is connected to the third valve, the second end of the fourth valve is connected to the first end of the integrated compression and expansion unit, the third end of the fourth valve is connected to the second end of the integrated compression and expansion unit, and the fourth end of the fourth valve is connected to the condenser. When the working fluid is input from the second end of the integrated compression and expansion machine to the integrated compression and expansion machine, the integrated compression and expansion machine is used to perform the function of an expander; When the first end of the fourth valve is connected to the third end of the fourth valve, and the second end of the fourth valve is connected to the fourth end of the fourth valve, the fourth valve is used to control the integrated compression and expansion machine to expand the working fluid from the third valve and then output the expanded working fluid to the condenser.

4. The system according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The first device is an integrated compression and expansion machine, and the system further includes: a first valve, a second valve, a third valve, and a fourth valve. The condenser and the pump are connected to the air-cooled heat exchanger via the first valve; wherein, the first valve is used to control the connection state between the condenser and the air-cooled heat exchanger, and to control the connection state between the pump and the air-cooled heat exchanger; when the first valve connects the passage between the condenser and the air-cooled heat exchanger, the first valve disconnects the passage between the pump and the air-cooled heat exchanger. The air-cooled heat exchanger is connected to the third valve or the liquid-cooled heat exchanger via the second valve; wherein, the second valve is used to control the connection state between the air-cooled heat exchanger and the third valve, and to control the connection state between the air-cooled heat exchanger and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger; when the second valve connects the passage between the air-cooled heat exchanger and the third valve, the second valve disconnects the passage between the air-cooled heat exchanger and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger; The second valve and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger are connected to the fourth valve through the third valve; wherein, the third valve is used to control the connection state between the second valve and the fourth valve, and to control the connection state between the liquid-cooled heat exchanger and the fourth valve; when the third valve connects the passage between the second valve and the fourth valve, the third valve disconnects the passage between the liquid-cooled heat exchanger and the fourth valve; The third valve and the condenser are connected to the integrated compression and expansion machine via the fourth valve; wherein, the fourth valve is used to control the integrated compression and expansion machine to compress the working fluid from the third valve and then output the compressed working fluid to the condenser; When the first valve is used to connect the passage between the condenser and the air-cooled heat exchanger, the second valve is used to connect the passage between the air-cooled heat exchanger and the third valve, the third valve is used to connect the passage between the liquid-cooled heat exchanger and the fourth valve, and the fourth valve is used to control the integrated compression and expansion machine to compress the working fluid from the third valve and then output the compressed working fluid to the condenser, the second circulation loop is connected.

5. The system as described in claim 4, characterized in that, The first end of the fourth valve is connected to the third valve, the second end of the fourth valve is connected to the first end of the integrated compression and expansion unit, the third end of the fourth valve is connected to the second end of the integrated compression and expansion unit, and the fourth end of the fourth valve is connected to the condenser. When the working fluid is input from the first end of the integrated compressor-expander, the integrated compressor-expander is used to perform the function of a compressor; When the first end and the second end of the fourth valve are connected, and the third end and the fourth end of the fourth valve are connected, the fourth valve is used to control the integrated compression and expansion machine to compress the working fluid from the third valve and then output the compressed working fluid to the condenser.

6. The system according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The system also includes: a fifth valve and a sixth valve. The fifth valve is installed on the pipeline between the pump and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger, and the fifth valve is used to connect or disconnect the passage between the pump and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger; The sixth valve is installed on the pipe between the liquid-cooled heat exchanger and the condenser, and the sixth valve is used to connect or disconnect the passage between the liquid-cooled heat exchanger and the condenser; The third circulation loop is connected when the fifth valve is used to connect the passage between the pump and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger, and the sixth valve is used to connect the passage between the liquid-cooled heat exchanger and the condenser.

7. The system as described in claim 1, characterized in that, The first device includes a compressor and an expander. The condenser, the pump, the air-cooled heat exchanger, the liquid-cooled heat exchanger, and the expander are connected in sequence by pipes to form the first circulation loop; The system also includes: a seventh valve and an eighth valve. The condenser and the pump are connected to the air-cooled heat exchanger via the seventh valve; wherein, the seventh valve is used to control the connection state between the condenser and the air-cooled heat exchanger, and to control the connection state between the pump and the air-cooled heat exchanger; when the seventh valve connects the passage between the pump and the air-cooled heat exchanger, the seventh valve disconnects the passage between the condenser and the air-cooled heat exchanger. The air-cooled heat exchanger is connected to the compressor or the liquid-cooled heat exchanger via the eighth valve; wherein, the eighth valve is used to control the connection state between the air-cooled heat exchanger and the compressor, and to control the connection state between the air-cooled heat exchanger and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger; when the eighth valve connects the passage between the air-cooled heat exchanger and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger, the eighth valve disconnects the passage between the air-cooled heat exchanger and the compressor; When the seventh valve is used to connect the passage between the pump and the air-cooled heat exchanger, and the eighth valve is used to connect the passage between the air-cooled heat exchanger and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger, the first circulation loop is connected.

8. The system as described in claim 1 or 7, characterized in that, The first device includes a compressor and an expander. The condenser, the air-cooled heat exchanger, and the compressor are connected in sequence by pipes to form the second circulation loop; The system also includes: a seventh valve and an eighth valve. The condenser and the pump are connected to the air-cooled heat exchanger via the seventh valve; wherein, the seventh valve is used to control the connection state between the condenser and the air-cooled heat exchanger, and to control the connection state between the pump and the air-cooled heat exchanger; when the seventh valve connects the passage between the condenser and the air-cooled heat exchanger, the seventh valve disconnects the passage between the pump and the air-cooled heat exchanger. The air-cooled heat exchanger is connected to the compressor or the liquid-cooled heat exchanger via the eighth valve; wherein, the eighth valve is used to control the connection state between the air-cooled heat exchanger and the compressor, and to control the connection state between the air-cooled heat exchanger and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger; when the eighth valve connects the passage between the air-cooled heat exchanger and the compressor, the eighth valve disconnects the passage between the air-cooled heat exchanger and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger; When the seventh valve is used to connect the passage between the condenser and the air-cooled heat exchanger, and the eighth valve is used to connect the passage between the air-cooled heat exchanger and the compressor, the second circulation loop is connected.

9. The system as described in claim 7 or 8, characterized in that, The condenser, the pump, the liquid-cooled heat exchanger, and the expander are connected in sequence by pipes to form a fourth circulation loop, which is used to convert the heat energy absorbed by the liquid-cooled heat exchanger into mechanical energy.

10. The system as described in claim 9, characterized in that, The system also includes: a ninth valve, The ninth valve is installed on the pipeline between the pump and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger, and the ninth valve is used to connect or disconnect the passage between the pump and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger; The fourth circulation loop is connected when the ninth valve is used to connect the passage between the pump and the liquid-cooled heat exchanger.

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