Method and assembly for converting energy from an industrial process

Abstract

The invention relates to an assembly for converting energy from a process gas stream, which comes from an industrial plant, having: a process gas cooling device, in particular a process gas condenser, by means of which at least some of the process gas stream can be condensed, wherein thermal energy can be coupled out of the process gas stream; a working medium circuit for transporting at least some of the thermal energy coupled out of the process gas stream, which can be coupled into a working medium; a heat engine which is arranged in the working medium circuit and by means of which at least some of the thermal energy coupled into the working medium can be converted into mechanical energy.

Description

[0001] Method and arrangement for converting energy from an industrial process

[0002] Description

[0003] Technical area

[0004] The present invention relates to a method and an arrangement for converting energy from an industrial process, in particular for recovering and / or utilizing thermal energy in the form of a higher-value or more usable form of energy (e.g. mechanical and / or electrical energy).

[0005] State of the art

[0006] Process gas can be used as a medium in certain process steps for the manufacture of products in order to bring about certain technical effects, such as drying, in a process step. For the purposes of the present invention, a process gas is understood to be a gas or gas mixture which serves to have a technical effect on the product to be manufactured. Depending on the product and industrial process, the process gas can be an inert or non-inert gas or gas mixture. In particular in the case of non-inert process gas, air or air-like gas mixtures are often used. In this case, the term process air is often used synonymously with process gas. In industrial processes, the process gas can absorb operating materials, for example solvents, or their reaction products, whereby the process gas is often released into the environment after leaving the industrial process.However, such operating materials can contain pollutants or solvents that have a negative impact on the environment. To reduce the negative environmental impact, enriched process gas (also known as exhaust gas) must be treated appropriately, also to comply with given legal limits for the exhaust gas released into the environment. If the process gas is process air, the exhaust gas is often synonymously referred to as exhaust air. A key distinguishing feature between exhaust gas and exhaust air can be the O2 concentration in the underlying gas mixture. Pollutants or pollutant-containing solvents are particularly understood to be substances that, at a certain quantity or concentration in the gas outlet, can harm plants, animals and / or people in the surrounding area. The pollutants can be, for example, solvents (e.g. NMP, NEP, TEP, EAA, GBL, etc.), hydrocarbons, nitrogen oxides, ammonia, hydrogen fluoride, etc.

[0007] Conventional devices for treating process gas often contain a main flow channel through which a process gas stream is passed. Particularly in the case of condensable pollutants in a process gas, the main flow channel is typically arranged between an outlet for discharging process gas to be purified from the industrial process and an inlet for introducing the same into a process gas condenser; in particular, it connects the outlet to the inlet. The pollutants or solvents contained in the process gas can be condensed in the process gas condenser, and the condensed pollutants or solvents can thus preferably be at least partially separated from the process gas. In particular, processes with a condensation step are known in the prior art, wherein condensates are separated from the process gas and solvents can thereby be recovered.

[0008] CA2214542A1 shows a process in which a solvent can be recovered during the production of lithium-ion batteries by condensing the solvent from solvent-containing process air.

[0009] When condensing process gas, it is advantageous to lower the temperature of the process gas. This primarily involves removing heat energy from the process gas, although the heat energy extracted from the process gas is often dissipated into the environment.

[0010] Description of the invention

[0011] The present invention is based on the object of creating an improved arrangement for converting energy from an industrial plant / industrial process.

[0012] This object is achieved according to the invention with an arrangement for converting energy from a process gas stream originating from an industrial plant. The arrangement comprises the following: a process gas cooling device, in particular a process gas condenser, with which at least a portion of the process gas stream can be cooled or condensed, wherein thermal energy can be extracted from the process gas stream; a working fluid circuit for transporting at least a portion of the thermal energy extracted from the process gas stream, which can be injected into a working fluid; a heat engine arranged in the working fluid circuit, with which at least a portion of the thermal energy injected into the working fluid can be converted into mechanical energy.

[0013] The inventors have found that it can be advantageous to recover the thermal energy used in the treatment of process gas or to make better use of it. In particular, the thermal energy extracted from the process gas cooling device or the process gas condenser, in particular from a condensation step exposed to the process gas flow, can be used on the one hand to reheat the process gas and on the other hand for conversion in a heat engine. In a or a multi-stage process gas cooling device or process gas condenser with cooling devices arranged one behind the other, a respective coolant can be used for each cooling device in order to be able to cool the process gas to a different temperature in each cooling stage. In particular, for example, in a second stage of the process gas cooling device orof the process gas condenser, cooling water is used and in a third stage, refrigerant cooled by a refrigeration machine is used, wherein thermal energy can be extracted from the process gas in each stage. According to the invention, the coolant can absorb heat, which is then processed or recovered into a more usable form. The inventors have therefore chosen the inventive approach of extracting the thermal energy extracted from the process gas from the process gas stream and converting it into a more usable form of energy, such as mechanical and / or electrical energy, via a heat engine. This can, for example, take the form of a dual use of the working fluid to be expanded in the heat engine, for example as a medium for the direct or immediate cooling of the process gas stream on the one hand, and on the other hand within a working fluid evaporator in which an indirect orindirect cooling capacity can be provided for the process gas stream.

[0014] The process gas cooling device can preferably be designed as part of a heat-displacing device, wherein thermal energy is initially extracted from the process gas stream and at a later point in time, in particular after at least one use and / or treatment step following the aforementioned thermal energy extraction, is at least partially injected back into the process gas stream. The process gas stream is thereby cooled. In particular, the process gas cooling device can be part of a distillation device, wherein a heating device for heating the process gas is arranged upstream of the process gas cooling device.

[0015] For the purposes of this application, the process gas cooling device may also be a process gas condenser, provided that the process gas is cooled and condensed.

[0016] The process gas condenser can, in particular, be designed to condense the process gas. The process gas can thus be cooled in a condensation step using the process gas condenser, so that a condensate is formed and can be separated. The condensation step in the process gas condenser preferably comprises several cooling stages, each with a cooling apparatus or cooling device, wherein the process gas is cooled step by step to different temperature levels. A cooling apparatus can, in particular, be a heat exchanger, for example a cross-flow heat exchanger. In a process gas condenser with several cooling stages, several cooling apparatuses, i.e. several heat exchangers, can be arranged one behind the other, with each cooling apparatus cooling the process gas to a predetermined temperature level. Particularly preferably, the process gas is cooled more significantly with each cooling stage. A cooling stage arranged further downstream therefore has a lower temperature level.At each cooling stage, it is also conceivable that the process gas is condensed. A cooling stage can therefore also be a condensation stage. A condensation step can therefore also comprise multiple condensation stages. In particular, for example, a front cooling stage can cool the process gas, and a rear cooling stage can cool the process gas so that it also condenses.

[0017] The process gas cooling device, in particular the process gas condenser, can therefore have at least one heat exchanger, wherein the process gas stream, as a heat-emitting flow, is thermally connected to a heat-absorbing flow via heat conduction elements, for example metal lines or metal plates forming flow channels. The aforementioned working fluid or an intermediate fluid can be provided as the heat-absorbing flow, in particular, wherein the working fluid or the intermediate fluid is assigned to a separate flow circuit. Thermal energy can be extracted from the process gas stream and coupled into a working fluid circuit. The thermal energy can thus be transferred from the process gas stream to a working fluid circuit. The process gas cooling device or the process gas condenser is, in particular, assigned to the process gas stream and can simultaneously be assigned to a working fluid circuit or an intermediate fluid circuit.The transfer of thermal energy to the working fluid circuit can occur directly or indirectly. For example, the process gas cooling device or the process gas condenser can be flowed through by the process gas and the working fluid, with thermal energy being transferred from the process gas to the working fluid within the process gas cooling device or the process gas condenser. On the other hand, thermal energy within the process gas cooling device or the process gas condenser can also be transferred indirectly from the process gas to an intermediate fluid, which is preferably located or circulates in a separate intermediate fluid circuit, before the thermal energy extracted from the process gas is transferred via the intermediate fluid circuit to the working fluid, for example in a working fluid evaporator.

[0018] The intermediate medium is defined in the context of this disclosure as a carrier medium for thermal energy, which is intended in particular to transport thermal energy between the process gas stream and the working medium circuit. The intermediate medium can be an organic or inorganic medium, in particular a medium, and can be used in the gaseous or, particularly preferably, in the liquid state. The liquid state of the intermediate medium can, in particular, have better heat transfer and heat transport properties. The intermediate medium can therefore, in particular, be a fluid. In particular, the intermediate medium can be water or oil, in particular a thermal oil. The intermediate medium preferably circulates in the intermediate medium circuit. The intermediate medium circuit is preferably designed or constructed as a closed media circuit.

[0019] Within the process gas condenser, the process gas can cool and subsequently undergo a phase transition into a liquid condensate. In particular, a process gas mist can be formed during condensation of the process gas. A separation device for separating solvent-containing condensate can be arranged in the process gas condenser, through which the mist-like process gas is passed.

[0020] The working fluid circuit is designed to transport at least a portion of the thermal energy with the aid of the working fluid, for example to the heat engine, where it is converted, the thermal energy being extracted from the process gas stream. The heat engine is in particular assigned to the working fluid circuit, the working fluid being expanded in the heat engine and a portion of the thermal energy in the working fluid being converted into mechanical energy. The working fluid can in particular be an organic medium for performing work in the heat engine. The working fluid circuit can therefore comprise an ORC cycle (Organic Rankine Cycle). In particular, the working fluid circuit can be designed such that the energy required to operate the working fluid circuit, for example to transport the working fluid, comes from the thermal energy converted in the heat engine.The working circuit can therefore be designed in such a way that it can supply itself with energy and is not dependent on an external energy source, such as a power grid.

[0021] In particular, an organic working fluid can be used, for example cyclohexane, butane, pentane, benzene, toluene, R134a, R12, R123, R113, n-perfluoropentane. The working fluid circuit can in particular refer to a thermodynamic cycle. The working fluid circulating in the working fluid circuit of the arrangement can therefore be involved in or subject to a thermodynamic cycle. The working fluid can in particular be removed from the heat engine in a circulating circuit or circuit within the arrangement and finally fed back into the heat engine or supplied to the heat engine. The working fluid circuit can therefore in particular refer to a working fluid circulating in a circuit.

[0022] In the context of this disclosure, "A" and "an" are to be read as indefinite articles unless expressly stated otherwise, and thus always as "at least one" or "at least one." Directional terms such as "downstream" or "after" or "upstream" or "before" generally refer to the main flow direction of the respective fluid. The fluid circulating in a circuit can also be understood as a fluid located or flowing in a circuit. Within the meaning of the invention, expressions such as "coupleable," "decoupleable," or "convertible" in connection with material and / or energy flows can alternatively or additionally, in particular optionally, include expressions such as "can be or will be coupled in," "can be or will be decoupled," "can or will be converted." The coupling of heat / heat energy can therefore be understood, in particular, as transferring the same, i.e."Couplable" can be understood in particular as "transferable to the corresponding medium" or "is coupled in." This can therefore also preferably be understood in the sense of "transferred to the corresponding medium."

[0023] The heat engine can, in particular, be a turbine, preferably of a radial or axial design. However, the heat engine can also be designed as a piston engine or as a scroll or so-called screw expander. In particular, the arrangement can also comprise a generator which is coupled to the heat engine for generating electrical energy. By means of the generator, at least a portion of the thermal energy converted into mechanical energy can be converted into electrical energy. A preferred embodiment of the invention further comprises a working fluid condenser arranged in the working fluid circuit downstream of the heat engine, by means of which the working fluid can be condensed, whereby thermal energy can be extracted from the working fluid.

[0024] After expansion in the heat engine, the working fluid can be led to a working fluid condenser, in which the essentially still gaseous working fluid can be condensed. During the condensation process, thermal energy can be extracted in the working fluid condenser, for example to be fed into the process gas stream and / or into an intermediate circuit. The working fluid condenser can therefore be designed in the form of a heat exchanger or a cooler, wherein the thermal energy can also be extracted into the environment, where the thermal energy is dissipated. Extracting thermal energy from the working fluid can be particularly advantageous for reducing waste heat from the arrangement by recovering the extracted thermal energy. By extracting thermal energy into the environment, a particularly simple, compact orAn economical design can be implemented, for example, in the form of an air cooler. An air cooler can, for example, be a fan-driven heat exchanger, using a conveyed airflow to dissipate heat energy into the environment.

[0025] In an advantageous embodiment, the thermal energy to be extracted from the working medium can be at least partially coupled into the process gas flow, in particular at a point downstream of the process gas cooling device or the process gas condenser.

[0026] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, a process gas heating device for heating at least a portion of the process gas stream is arranged downstream of the process gas cooling device or the process gas condenser, by means of which process gas heating device thermal energy can be coupled into the process gas stream.

[0027] The inventors have further determined that the amount of thermal energy extracted during condensation of the process gas can be, in particular, higher than the thermal energy returned to the process gas by means of the process gas heating device, which can result in waste heat being generated. In particular, the temperature of the process gas upon entering the process gas cooling device or the process gas condenser can be higher than the temperature of the process gas upon exiting the process gas heating device. The temperature gradient, i.e. the resulting heat flow of the waste heat, can be comparatively small. Instead of simply dissipating the waste heat into the environment, the waste heat can be advantageously used, as described above, not only to partially convert it in the heat engine, but also via a process gas heating device to heat at least a portion of the process gas flow downstream of the process gas cooling device or the process gas condenser.By means of the process gas heating device, the heat energy not used for conversion can be fed back into the process gas stream.

[0028] The return of thermal energy to the process gas stream can generally be understood as a thermal shift. In this case, at least a portion of the thermal energy present in the process gas stream is shifted from one location to another location in the process gas stream. The process gas heating device can thus couple thermal energy into the process gas stream, with the coupling of thermal energy into the process gas stream representing a thermal shift of thermal energy that was previously extracted from the process gas stream.

[0029] The process gas heating device can, for example, be designed in the form of a heat exchanger, wherein thermal energy can be coupled into the process gas stream by means of a heat-carrying flow, for example the working fluid located in the working fluid circuit or an intermediate fluid located in an intermediate fluid circuit. The process gas heating device can, for example, be designed as a gas-to-gas heat exchanger or as a gas-to-liquid heat exchanger. The transfer of thermal energy between the working fluid circuit and the process gas stream can therefore take place directly between two adjacent flows in a heat-conducting device such as a heat exchanger. In particular, the thermal energy to be extracted from the working fluid can be at least partially coupled into the process gas stream via the process gas heating device.

[0030] The transfer of thermal energy between the working fluid circuit and the process gas flow can also be carried out indirectly via an intermediate circuit, whereby the thermal energy to be transferred to the process gas flow initially takes place by means of a heat exchanger between the working fluid circuit and the intermediate circuit and then takes place in process terms between the intermediate circuit and the process gas flow by means of a further heat exchanger, for example by means of the process gas heating device.

[0031] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the working fluid circuit comprises the following: a first working fluid line to the heat engine, by means of which the working fluid can be fed to an inlet of the heat engine; a second working fluid line, by means of which the working fluid can be discharged from an outlet of the heat engine; a third working fluid line, by means of which the working fluid can be fed to a working fluid inlet of a working fluid heating device, in particular for evaporating the working fluid.

[0032] In particular, the first working fluid line can be used to supply the working fluid from a working fluid outlet of the process gas cooling device or the process gas condenser to the inlet of the heat engine. Furthermore, the second working fluid line can be used to supply the working fluid from a heat engine outlet to a working fluid inlet of the process gas heating device. The third working fluid line can be used to supply the working fluid to the process gas cooling device or the process gas condenser as a working fluid heating device for absorbing thermal energy from the process gas stream.

[0033] The first working fluid line is particularly intended for transporting vaporized working fluid to the heat engine. The second working fluid line is particularly intended for removing the working fluid, which was previously expanded in the heat engine, from the heat engine. Particularly preferably, the second working fluid line is also intended for conveying working fluid, in particular to a working fluid condenser. The third working fluid line is particularly intended for conveying working fluid to a working fluid heating device, in which the working fluid can absorb thermal energy, in particular for evaporating the working fluid.

[0034] With the help of the process gas cooling device or the process gas condenser, thermal energy can be transferred from the process gas stream to the working fluid circuit as a heat-absorbing flow, whereby the working fluid is evaporated. The working fluid is therefore preferably evaporated directly in the process gas cooling device or in the process gas condenser. The first working fluid line is preferably designed to conduct a gaseous or vaporous working fluid from the process gas cooling device or the process gas condenser to the inlet of the heat engine. After expansion in the heat engine, the second working fluid line can conduct the working fluid to a working fluid inlet of the process gas heating device. In the process gas heating device, thermal energy can be transferred from the working fluid to the process gas stream, whereby the working fluid can be condensed. In the process gas heating device, the working fluid is therefore preferably condensed directly.The third working medium line is designed to guide condensed working medium from the process gas heating device to the process gas cooling device or to the process gas condenser.

[0035] A further preferred embodiment of the invention further comprises a working medium evaporator for evaporating working medium, wherein thermal energy can be transferred from an intermediate medium to the working medium by means of the working medium evaporator; at least one intermediate medium circuit comprising: a first intermediate medium line to the working medium evaporator, by means of which first intermediate medium line an intermediate medium can be fed to an intermediate medium inlet of the working medium evaporator for supplying intermediate medium, wherein the thermal energy extracted from the process gas stream can be transported to the working medium evaporator by means of the intermediate medium, and / or a second intermediate medium line to the process gas heating device, by means of which second intermediate medium line an intermediate medium can be fed to an intermediate medium inlet of the process gas heating device for supplying intermediate medium,wherein at least a portion of the thermal energy from the intermediate medium can be transferred to the process gas stream via the process gas heating device. The first intermediate medium line can, in particular, be capable of conveying an intermediate medium from an intermediate medium outlet of the process gas cooling device or the process gas condenser for discharging intermediate medium to an intermediate medium inlet of the working medium evaporator for supplying intermediate medium, wherein the thermal energy extracted from the process gas stream can be transported to the working medium evaporator with the aid of the intermediate medium.

[0036] Particularly suitable as intermediaries are heat-conducting liquids, which can be either organic or inorganic. The intermediary preferably has a high heat capacity and / or a high critical temperature. Water or oil can be used as intermediaries, in particular.

[0037] The working fluid evaporator is in particular assigned to both the working fluid circuit and the intermediate fluid circuit, and is therefore preferably flowed through on the one hand by the intermediate fluid and on the other hand by the working fluid, whereby thermal energy extracted from the process gas stream is transferred from the intermediate fluid to the working fluid. The intermediate fluid can be guided from the process gas cooling device or the process gas condenser into the working fluid evaporator through the first intermediate fluid line. The working fluid can therefore be heated and converted into a gaseous state, i.e. evaporated, when thermal energy is supplied within the working fluid evaporator. The intermediate fluid circuit can also have a second intermediate fluid line that guides the intermediate fluid to the process gas heating device.In particular, the second intermediate medium line can carry the intermediate medium from the working medium evaporator, in which part of the thermal energy was transferred to the working medium, to the process gas heating device. In the process gas heating device, a further part of the thermal energy contained in the intermediate medium can be transferred to the process gas stream.

[0038] Optionally, the intermediate medium circuit can have a working medium condenser, which can be arranged downstream of the working medium evaporator with respect to the main flow direction of the intermediate medium, wherein the working medium condenser can also be assigned to the working medium circuit and is flowed through by both the intermediate medium and the working medium. The working medium condenser is preferably arranged downstream of the heat engine with respect to the working medium circuit. After expansion in the heat engine, the still gaseous working medium can be condensed in the working medium condenser, whereby thermal energy is transferred to the intermediate medium. Alternatively, the second intermediate medium line can carry the intermediate medium from a working medium condenser, in which thermal energy has been transferred from the working medium to the intermediate medium, to the process gas heating device.In the process gas heating device, the thermal energy transferred to the intermediate medium can be transferred to the process gas stream. In particular, heat transfer can occur indirectly via the intermediate medium from the process gas cooling device or the process gas condenser to the process gas heating device. Thermal energy can thus be indirectly coupled from the process gas stream via the intermediate medium back into the process gas stream by means of the process gas heating device.

[0039] In particular, an intermediary medium cooler can be arranged in the intermediary medium circuit upstream of the working medium condenser, in which the intermediary medium is cooled before the intermediary medium is fed into the working medium condenser to absorb heat energy. The intermediary medium can therefore first be cooled by means of the intermediary medium cooler before the intermediary medium is heated in the working medium condenser. The intermediary medium cooler can therefore limit the amount of heat energy that the intermediary medium couples into the process gas stream via the process gas heating device. Without the intermediary medium cooler, more heat energy can be coupled into the process gas stream overall, which should be avoided under certain circumstances, for example to maintain a predetermined maximum temperature of the process gas stream as it flows through the process gas heating device.

[0040] The arrangement can in particular have two intermediate medium circuits, wherein in a first intermediate medium circuit, a first intermediate medium is guided from the process gas cooling device or the process gas condenser via the first intermediate medium line to the working medium evaporator. The first intermediate medium can then be guided back in the circuit to the process gas cooling device or the process gas condenser. In a second intermediate medium circuit, a second intermediate medium, which flows through the process gas heating device, can be guided from the process gas heating device. The second intermediate medium can then be guided to the working medium condenser. The second intermediate medium can be guided to an inlet of the process gas heating device via the second intermediate medium line.

[0041] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the process gas cooling device, in particular the process gas condenser, has at least two cooling devices arranged one behind the other for cooling at least a portion of the process gas flow, which cooling devices are each intended for a cooling stage, wherein a front cooling device is intended to transfer at least a portion of the thermal energy from the process gas flow to the working medium for expansion in the heat engine and in the process to cool at least a portion of the process gas flow; a rear cooling device arranged downstream of the front cooling device is intended to transfer at least a portion of the thermal energy from the process gas flow to a coolant flow separate from the working medium and in the process to cool, in particular to condense, at least a portion of the process gas flow, wherein the coolant flow is further intendedto absorb thermal energy at a point in an intermediate medium circuit and / or in the working medium circuit. For example, this occurs at a point in the working medium circuit downstream of the heat engine, whereby thermal energy is absorbed from the working medium. The coolant flow can therefore generally be intended to absorb additional thermal energy than that from the process gas. It can therefore also be used to cool the intermediate or working medium after the process gas has cooled down. The process gas cooling device or the process gas condenser can in particular have three cooling devices arranged one behind the other. As described above, the respective cooling device can cool the process gas flow to a predetermined temperature level, whereby the process gas flow is cooled successively. The temperature level is particularly preferably an average,This refers to the lowest temperature of the process gas reached within the cooling stage. A cooling device can be used to cool the process gas stream, through which a respective coolant flows. The temperature level of the process gas thus continues to decrease with each cooling device arranged downstream. Similarly, the temperature level of the process gas can decrease with each cooling stage arranged downstream.

[0042] Particularly preferably, the front cooling device can be the first of the cooling devices arranged one behind the other within the process gas cooling device or the process gas condenser in the downstream direction of the process gas flow. The directions refer to the main flow direction of the process gas. Thus, within the process gas cooling device or the process gas condenser, the process gas can preferably first flow through the first cooling device, then the second, and finally the third cooling device. Thus, with respect to the main flow direction of the process gas, the first cooling device can in particular be the front cooling device. A rear cooling device can accordingly be the second or third cooling device. The flow direction can generally mean the main flow direction.

[0043] The cooling devices are each particularly intended for a cooling stage. Thus, the first cooling device can particularly preferably be intended for a first cooling stage, the second cooling device for a second cooling stage, and the third cooling device for a third cooling stage, etc.

[0044] A coolant flow can therefore be an intermediate medium, a cooling water flow, or even a refrigerant flow, whereby the refrigerant flow is cooled by means of a coupled refrigeration machine. For example, the first cooling device can be a cooling device cooled by an intermediate medium, the second cooling device can be a water-cooled cooling device, and the third cooling device can be a refrigerant-cooled cooling device. Depending on the flow direction of the coolant flow, the respective coolant can absorb further thermal energy from an intermediate medium circuit and / or from the working medium circuit after flowing through a cooling device. The coolant flow can therefore be used advantageously to absorb additional thermal energy.

[0045] In one arrangement variant wherein two intermediate medium circuits are used, the intermediate medium located in the second intermediate medium circuit can preferably be cooled with the aid of the coolant flow, with thermal energy being absorbed from the coolant flow. In this arrangement variant, the second intermediate medium circuit can be intended to transport thermal energy from the working medium circuit to the process gas heating device. For example, a cooling water flow can absorb thermal energy from the second intermediate medium circuit after the cooling water flow has absorbed thermal energy from the process gas flow. The absorption of thermal energy from the second intermediate medium circuit can, for example, occur with the aid of a heat exchanger assigned to the second intermediate medium circuit. Analogously, in a further example, a refrigerant flow cooled by a refrigeration machine can absorb thermal energy from the second intermediate medium circuit.This can also be done, for example, using a heat exchanger assigned to the second intermediate circuit.

[0046] An intermediate medium pump for circulating intermediate medium can be arranged in each intermediate medium circuit. The respective intermediate medium pump can be operated with at least a portion of the electrical energy generated by a generator coupled to the heat engine.

[0047] Particularly preferably, the coolant flow, i.e., optionally a cooling water flow or a refrigerant flow, can absorb thermal energy from the working fluid circuit in an analogous embodiment, whereby the working fluid can preferably condense during the heat release. The coolant flow will therefore preferably absorb thermal energy from the working fluid circuit downstream of the heat engine. The coolant flow can thus support the condensation of the working fluid in the working fluid circuit downstream of the heat engine. The coolant flow can also be used as a heat-absorbing flow within the working fluid condenser.

[0048] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the arrangement comprises a refrigeration machine for cooling the coolant flow, wherein at least a part of the thermal energy, in particular that which is coupled from the coolant flow into the refrigeration machine, can be coupled out of the refrigeration machine for coupling into the process gas flow and / or into an intermediate medium circuit and / or into the working medium circuit.

[0049] The coolant can, in particular, be a refrigerant that is cooled in a refrigeration machine. Thermal energy can be extracted from the refrigeration machine and introduced into the process gas stream. Thermal energy from the refrigeration machine can, however, also be introduced into an intermediate medium circuit, thereby heating the intermediate medium. The intermediate medium circuit can be designed to transport thermal energy from the process gas stream into the working medium circuit. The intermediate medium can preferably be introduced into the intermediate medium circuit upstream of the process gas cooling device or the process gas condenser with respect to the flow direction of the intermediate medium. The intermediate medium can therefore be preheated before being fed to the process gas cooling device or the process gas condenser. Overall, it is conceivable to advantageously incorporate the thermal energy extracted from the refrigeration machine into any desired material stream.This can be, for example, at a point in the working fluid circuit upstream of the heat engine. It is also conceivable and preferred that the thermal energy that can be coupled into the process gas flow and / or into an intermediate circuit and / or into the working fluid circuit can simply be extracted from the refrigeration machine as waste heat. Thus, it is also possible for the sources of thermal energy from the refrigeration machine to originate from both a compressor and the coolant flow. The coolant flow can, in particular, be a refrigerant flow.

[0050] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the arrangement comprises a generator coupled to the heat engine for generating electrical energy. In particular, the electrical energy generated by the generator can be used to operate an electromechanical converter, for example, to operate a working fluid pump. In particular, the current generated by the generator can be fed as direct current to an inverter of the working fluid pump. The working fluid pump can also be a feed pump, whereby the working fluid pump can transport the working fluid in a working fluid circuit. In particular, the working fluid pump can circulate the working fluid in the working fluid circuit.

[0051] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the process gas cooling device, in particular the process gas condenser, comprises the following: three cooling devices arranged one behind the other for cooling at least a portion of the process gas flow, wherein the first cooling device can be flowed through by an intermediate medium located in an intermediate medium circuit, wherein the thermal energy originating from at least a portion of the process gas flow can be transferred to the intermediate medium for re-coupling into the process gas flow, the second cooling device can be flowed through by a first coolant, in particular cooling water, wherein thermal energy can be transferred from the process gas flow to the first coolant, the third cooling device can be flowed through by a second cooled coolant, in particular a coolant cooled by a refrigeration machine, wherein thermal energy can be transferred from the process gas flow to the second coolant,in which arrangement the intermediate medium located in an intermediate medium circuit can flow through a working medium evaporator for evaporating the working medium, wherein at least part of the thermal energy in the working medium can be converted into electrical energy via the heat engine and the generator, a process gas heating device arranged downstream of the process gas cooling device or the process gas condenser can be flowed through by the intermediate medium located in an intermediate medium circuit, wherein thermal energy can be coupled into the process gas flow.

[0052] The present invention further relates to a method for converting energy from an industrial process.

[0053] The object of the invention is achieved alternatively or additionally by a method for converting energy from a process gas stream originating from an industrial process, in which method at least a portion of the process gas stream is exposed to or subjected to a condensation step, wherein at least a portion of the thermal energy from the process gas stream is transferred to a working medium for conversion in a heat engine which is arranged in a working medium circuit.

[0054] During the conversion process in the heat engine, the working fluid is preferably expanded, allowing mechanical energy to be extracted for further conversion into electrical energy. The industrial process takes place primarily in the industrial plant.

[0055] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the working medium is condensed downstream of the conversion in the heat engine, whereby heat energy is extracted from the working medium.

[0056] The heat engine is in particular assigned to a working fluid circuit, for example an ORC circuit. After conversion in the heat engine, the predominantly still gaseous working fluid can preferably be condensed. In particular, the condensation of the working fluid downstream of the heat engine can be part of a working fluid cycle or an ORC cycle. In this case, thermal energy can be released into the environment, for example, using an air cooler. Preferably, the thermal energy released from the working fluid can also be coupled into the process gas stream. For this purpose, the thermal energy can first be coupled into an intermediate circuit before being coupled into the process gas stream. Optionally, the thermal energy can also be coupled into a coolant stream, in particular a cooling water stream or a refrigerant stream.

[0057] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, thermal energy from the working medium is transferred to the process gas during a heating process of the process gas stream.

[0058] With the help of the heating process, in particular, a heat shift can take place in the process gas stream, whereby at least part of the heat energy extracted from the process gas stream is transferred back into the process gas stream.

[0059] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the method comprises at least one intermediate medium circuit which can be coupled to the process gas flow and / or to the working medium circuit in a heat-conducting or heat-transferring manner, in which the following method steps are carried out: during the condensation step of the process gas flow, thermal energy is transferred directly to an intermediate medium located in the intermediate medium circuit, flowing or circulating; at least a portion of the thermal energy transferred from the process gas to the intermediate medium is transferred directly to the working medium located in the working medium circuit upstream of the conversion in the heat engine, whereby the working medium is evaporated; the evaporated working medium is fed to the heat engine.Furthermore, downstream of the heat engine, thermal energy can be transferred from the working medium directly to the intermediate medium located in an intermediate medium circuit; during the heating process of the process gas stream, the process gas in the process gas stream is directly heated by means of thermal energy from the intermediate medium located in an intermediate medium circuit.

[0060] During the condensation step of the process gas stream, the thermal energy is preferably transferred directly or immediately from the process gas stream to the intermediate medium. This can particularly refer to intermediate medium flowing adjacent to the process gas stream and located in the intermediate medium circuit. Similarly, the direct transfer of thermal energy between the intermediate medium and the working medium upstream of the conversion in the heat engine can be understood. Thus, in the context of this invention, direct transfer can be understood as a transfer of thermal energy between two fluids arranged adjacent to one another or flowing through one another, for example in a heat exchanger. Similarly, the process gas is heated by transferring thermal energy from the intermediate medium directly to the adjacent process gas flowing through.The conversion in the heat engine can, in particular, involve expansion of the working medium, whereby thermal energy is converted into mechanical energy. In particular, the condensation step can comprise multiple cooling stages. In particular, during the condensation step, the thermal energy can be transferred to the intermediate medium in the first cooling stage during cooling of the process gas stream, with the process gas stream only being condensed in the second and / or third cooling stage.

[0061] In a preferred intermediate center circuit arrangement, the thermal energy extracted from the process gas stream can therefore have the following transfer paths: first, directly from the process gas stream to the intermediate center circuit. Second, directly from the intermediate center circuit to the working fluid circuit for conversion in the heat engine. Third, after conversion, from the working fluid circuit directly to the intermediate center circuit. Fourth, from the intermediate center circuit to the process gas stream. Advantageously, in this embodiment, an intermediate center circuit can be used to realize both the heat transfer in the process gas stream and the conversion of excess thermal energy in the heat engine, with the excess thermal energy arising primarily from the different temperature levels during the condensation of the process gas and during the heating process of the process gas.

[0062] In a likewise preferred embodiment with two intermediate circuits, i.e. with a first and a second intermediate circuit, the thermal energy can have the following transfer paths: first, directly from the process gas stream to the first intermediate circuit. Second, from the first intermediate circuit directly to the working fluid circuit. Third, from the working fluid circuit to the second intermediate circuit. Fourth, from the second intermediate circuit to the process gas stream. A separate intermediate medium can be used in each intermediate circuit. For example, two different organic intermediate media can be used in each intermediate circuit. Advantageously, due to the different temperature levels of the first and second intermediate circuits, a temperature-optimized intermediate medium can be used in each case.For example, the first intermediate agent may have a higher critical temperature than the second intermediate agent.

[0063] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the following method steps are carried out: during the condensation step of the process gas stream, thermal energy is transferred directly to a working medium, whereby the working medium is evaporated; the evaporated working medium is fed to the heat engine; during the heating process of the process gas stream, thermal energy is transferred directly to the process gas, whereby the working medium is condensed in the working medium circuit downstream of the heat engine as heat is transferred to the process gas. The condensation step can comprise at least one cooling stage, preferably several cooling stages. In particular, thermal energy can be transferred directly to a working medium in a preferably first cooling stage of the condensation step.

[0064] In this preferred embodiment, the process gas stream is directly coupled to the working fluid circuit in a heat-conducting manner, allowing the transfer of thermal energy without any intermediate means. The condensation step of the process gas stream can thus simultaneously be an evaporation step of the working fluid circuit. The heating process of the process gas stream can simultaneously be a condensation step of the working fluid circuit. Advantageously, such an embodiment can potentially be implemented more compactly and less cost-intensively, since the functions of a working fluid evaporator and a working fluid condenser are already realized during the condensation step or heating process of the process gas stream.

[0065] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the condensation step of the process gas stream comprises at least two cooling stages taking place one after the other, in which method the following method steps are carried out: Thermal energy from the process gas stream is transferred to a working medium in a front, i.e. upstream arranged or provided, cooling stage; In a rear cooling stage arranged downstream of the front cooling stage, thermal energy from the process gas stream is transferred to a coolant located in a coolant stream; Thermal energy from the working medium is transferred to the coolant located in a coolant stream at a point in the working medium circuit downstream of the conversion in the heat engine.

[0066] The process gas flow can therefore be cooled successively by means of at least two cooling stages, each cooling stage having its own, in particular predetermined, temperature level, which decreases in the order according to the main flow direction.

[0067] The transfer of heat energy from the process gas stream to a working medium can occur both directly and indirectly with the aid of an intermediate medium. In an arrangement with three or more cooling stages, the front cooling stage can be designed as the first cooling stage. The position "front" refers to the main flow direction of the process gas stream. A coolant can be water or refrigerant, for example, with the refrigerant being cooled in a refrigeration machine. In an arrangement with three cooling stages, heat energy can be transferred to a cooling water stream in the second cooling stage and heat energy can be transferred to a refrigerant stream in the third cooling stage.

[0068] Thermal energy from the working fluid can be transferred to both a cooling water flow and a refrigerant flow, particularly at a point in the working fluid circuit downstream of the conversion in the heat engine. In particular, this transfer of thermal energy from the working fluid to the cooling water flow or refrigerant flow can occur after the cooling water flow or refrigerant flow has absorbed thermal energy from the process gas flow. Advantageously, the coolant flow, or more generally the cooling water or refrigerant flow, can therefore absorb further thermal energy, thus better utilizing the heat absorption capacity of the coolant flow.

[0069] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the following method steps are carried out: a coolant is cooled in a coolant flow with the aid of a refrigeration machine, wherein thermal energy is extracted from the coolant into the refrigeration machine; the coolant is guided to the rear cooling stage of the process gas flow; downstream of the rear cooling stage of the process gas flow, thermal energy from the working fluid is absorbed by the coolant in the coolant flow, wherein the working fluid in the working fluid circuit is cooled and condensed, and / or in the working fluid circuit, the thermal energy previously extracted into the refrigeration machine is transferred to an intermediate medium or to the working fluid for coupling into the process gas flow and / or for coupling into the working fluid circuit.Therefore, the intermediate fluid and / or working fluid can preferably be preheated using the thermal energy previously extracted from the refrigeration system, i.e., waste heat from the refrigeration system. This can result in a temperature increase of the working fluid and / or intermediate fluid. The working fluid can, in particular, circulate in the working fluid circuit.

[0070] In a further aspect of the invention, the arrangement or the method is used for converting energy from a process gas stream, in particular from a circulating or recirculating air of a dryer for treating process gas of a dryer, in particular from the process gas of a production plant for producing electrodes of a battery and / or a device for separating or recovering at least one solvent from the process gas of a production plant.

[0071] Examples of implementation

[0072] The invention is explained in more detail below using several exemplary embodiments, without distinguishing between the different claim categories. Furthermore, it is clarified that the proposed solutions according to the invention can be applied to various different industrial processes. An energy conversion device coupled to an electrode coating system is shown below as an example.

[0073] Character list

[0074] The drawings show:

[0075] Fig. 1 is a schematic representation of an arrangement according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system with direct coupling to a working medium circuit;

[0076] Fig. 1 a is a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 1;

[0077] Fig. 2 is a schematic representation of an arrangement according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system with direct coupling to a working fluid circuit and with use of the coolant flow in the working fluid circuit:

[0078] Fig. 2a is a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 2;

[0079] Fig. 3 is a schematic representation of an arrangement according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system with direct coupling to a working fluid circuit and with use of the cooling water flow in the working fluid circuit:

[0080] Fig. 3a is a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 3;

[0081] Fig. 4 is a schematic representation of an arrangement according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system with direct coupling to a working fluid circuit and with use of the refrigerant flow as well as with use of the waste heat of the refrigeration machine in the working fluid circuit:

[0082] Fig. 4a is a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 4;

[0083] Fig. 5 is a schematic representation of an arrangement according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system with direct coupling to a working fluid circuit and with use of the cooling water flow as well as with use of the waste heat of the refrigeration machine in the working fluid circuit;

[0084] Fig. 5a is a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 5;

[0085] Fig. 6 is a schematic representation of an arrangement according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system with an intermediate circuit for coupling to a working medium circuit;

[0086] Fig. 6a is a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 6; Fig. 7 is a schematic representation of an arrangement according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system with an intermediate circuit for coupling to a working fluid circuit and utilizing the cooling water flow in the intermediate circuit;

[0087] Fig. 7a is a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 7;

[0088] Fig. 8 is a schematic representation of an arrangement according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system with an intermediate circuit for coupling to a working medium circuit and with use of the cooling water flow and with use of the waste heat of the refrigeration machine in the intermediate circuit;

[0089] Fig. 8a is a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 8;

[0090] Fig. 9 is a schematic representation of an arrangement according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system with an intermediate circuit for coupling with a working medium circuit and with use of the coolant flow in the intermediate circuit:

[0091] Fig. 9a is a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 9;

[0092] Fig. 10 is a schematic representation of an arrangement according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system with an intermediate circuit for coupling with a working medium circuit and with use of the refrigerant flow as well as with use of the waste heat of the refrigeration machine in the intermediate circuit:

[0093] Fig. 10a is a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 10;

[0094] Fig. 11 is a schematic representation of an arrangement according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system with an intermediate circuit for coupling to a working medium circuit and with use of the waste heat of the refrigeration machine in the working medium circuit;

[0095] Fig. 11a is a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 11;

[0096] Fig. 12 is a schematic representation of an arrangement according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system with an intermediate circuit for coupling to a working medium circuit and with use of the refrigerant flow in the working medium circuit;

[0097] Fig. 12a is a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 12;

[0098] Fig. 13 is a schematic representation of an arrangement according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system with an intermediate circuit for coupling to a working fluid circuit and utilizing the cooling water flow in the working fluid circuit; Fig. 13a is a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 13;

[0099] Fig. 14 is a schematic representation of an arrangement according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system with an intermediate circuit for coupling to a working medium circuit and with use of the cooling water flow and with use of the waste heat of the refrigeration machine in the working medium circuit;

[0100] Fig. 14a is a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 14;

[0101] Fig. 15 is a schematic representation of an arrangement according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system with an intermediate circuit for coupling to a working medium circuit and with use of the refrigerant flow and with use of the waste heat of the refrigeration machine in the working medium circuit;

[0102] Fig. 15a is a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 15;

[0103] Fig. 16 is a schematic representation of an arrangement according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system with an intermediate circuit for coupling with a working medium circuit and using the refrigerant flow to condense a working medium:

[0104] Fig. 16a is a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 16;

[0105] Fig. 17 is a schematic representation of an arrangement according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system with an intermediate circuit for coupling with a working medium circuit and with use of the refrigerant flow for condensing a working medium as well as with use of the waste heat of the refrigeration machine in the working medium circuit:

[0106] Fig. 17a is a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 17;

[0107] Fig. 18 is a schematic representation of an arrangement according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system with an intermediate circuit for coupling to a working fluid circuit and with use of the cooling water flow for condensing a working fluid;

[0108] Fig. 18a is a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 18;

[0109] Fig. 19 is a schematic representation of an arrangement according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system with an intermediate circuit for coupling to a working fluid circuit and with use of the cooling water flow for condensing a working fluid and with use of the waste heat of the refrigeration machine in the working fluid circuit;

[0110] Fig. 19a is a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 19; Fig. 20 is a schematic representation of an arrangement according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system with an intermediate circuit for direct evaporation and condensation of the working medium;

[0111] Fig. 20a is a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 20;

[0112] Fig. 21 is a schematic representation of an arrangement according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system with an intermediate circuit for direct evaporation and condensation of the working medium and with use of the waste heat of the refrigeration machine in the working medium circuit;

[0113] Fig. 21a is a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 21;

[0114] Fig. 22 is a schematic representation of an arrangement according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system with an intermediate circuit for direct evaporation and pre-cooling of the working medium and with use of the refrigerant flow in the working medium circuit:

[0115] Fig. 22a is a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 22;

[0116] Fig. 23 is a schematic representation of an arrangement according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system with an intermediate circuit for direct evaporation and pre-cooling of the working medium and with use of the refrigerant flow and the waste heat of the refrigeration machine in the working medium circuit:

[0117] Fig. 23a is a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 23;

[0118] Fig. 24 is a schematic representation of an arrangement according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system with an intermediate circuit for direct evaporation and pre-cooling of the working medium and with use of the cooling water flow in the working medium circuit:

[0119] Fig. 24a is a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 24;

[0120] Fig. 25 is a schematic representation of an arrangement according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system with an intermediate circuit for direct evaporation and pre-cooling of the working medium and with use of the cooling water flow and the waste heat of the refrigeration machine in the working medium circuit;

[0121] Fig. 25a is a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 25;

[0122] Fig. 26 is a schematic representation of an arrangement according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system with two intermediate circuits for direct evaporation and condensation of the working medium;

[0123] Fig. 26a is a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 26; Fig. 27 is a schematic representation of an arrangement according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system with two intermediate circuits for direct evaporation and condensation of the working fluid and with utilization of the refrigerant flow in an intermediate circuit;

[0124] Fig. 27a is a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 27;

[0125] Fig. 28 is a schematic representation of an arrangement according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system with two intermediate circuits for direct evaporation and condensation of the working medium I and with use of the refrigerant flow in one intermediate circuit and the waste heat of the refrigeration machine in another intermediate circuit;

[0126] Fig. 28a is a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 28;

[0127] Fig. 29 is a schematic representation of an arrangement according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system with two intermediate circuits for direct evaporation and condensation of the working fluid Is and with use of the cooling water flow in an intermediate circuit:

[0128] Fig. 29a is a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 29;

[0129] Fig. 30 is a schematic representation of an arrangement according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system with two intermediate circuits for direct evaporation and condensation of the working fluid and with use of the cooling water flow in one intermediate circuit and the waste heat of the refrigeration machine in another intermediate circuit:

[0130] Fig. 30a is a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 30;

[0131] Fig. 31 is a schematic representation of an arrangement according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system with two intermediate circuits for direct evaporation and condensation of the working medium and with use of the waste heat of the refrigeration machine in an intermediate circuit;

[0132] Fig. 31a is a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 31.

[0133] Preferred embodiment of the invention

[0134] 1 to 5a show schematic representations of arrangements and methods according to the invention of a variant 1 with a direct heat coupling of the process gas flow A with a working medium circuit C. Fig. 6 to 11a show schematic representations of a variant 2 with an intermediate circuit B for the heat-conducting coupling of the process gas flow A with the working medium circuit C. In addition, in the representations of the main variant 2, an air heat exchanger 8 is arranged in the working medium circuit C.

[0135] Fig. 12 to 19a show schematic representations of a variant 3 with the intermediate circuit B and a coolant heat exchanger 63, which is arranged for condensing the working fluid in the working fluid circuit C.

[0136] Fig. 20 to 25a show schematic representations of a variant 4 with the intermediate medium circuit B, which has a heat coupling with the working medium circuit C for direct evaporation and for condensing or cooling the working medium.

[0137] Fig. 26 to 31a show schematic representations of a variant 5 with two intermediate circuits Ba and Bb for the heat coupling of the process gas flow A with the working medium circuit C.

[0138] Now the characters are described in detail:

[0139] Fig. 1 schematically shows an embodiment of an arrangement 100 according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system 1 with direct coupling to a working medium circuit C.

[0140] Reference numeral 1 denotes an exemplary electrode coating system in which electrodes for the production of lithium-ion batteries are coated in an electrode coating process S1. For example, one of the above-mentioned solvents can be used; in particular, a mixture of, for example, TEP and EAA can also be used as the solvent.

[0141] First, the arrangement along the process gas flow A is described:

[0142] A process gas stream A is guided by a blower 3 from an outlet of the electrode coating system 1 via a process gas inlet 25 to a process gas condenser 2. With the help of the process gas condenser 2, at least a portion of the process gas stream A can be condensed, wherein thermal energy can be extracted from the process gas stream. The temperature of the process gas in the process gas stream A is typically approximately 120 °C, for example in a range between 100 and 150 °C upon entry into the process gas condenser 2. In the process gas condenser 2, the process gas is successively cooled, preferably to approximately 15 °C as the target temperature. The process gas condenser 2 has three cooling devices 21, 22, 23 arranged one behind the other and designed as heat exchangers for carrying out a three-stage condensation step S2, wherein thermal energy is extracted, i.e. removed, from the process gas stream A. The cooling units are each designed for one cooling level.The first cooling stage S21a is thus carried out by means of the first cooling device 21, the second cooling stage S22a is carried out in the second cooling device 22, and the third cooling stage S23a is carried out in the third cooling device 23. The process gas is cooled to 60 °C in the first cooling device 21, to 30 °C in the second cooling device 22, and to 15 °C in the third cooling device 23. The cooling devices 21, 22, 23 are designed, for example, as cross-flow heat exchangers.

[0143] Downstream of the process gas condenser 2, a process gas heating device 24 in the form of a cross-flow heat exchanger is arranged, in which heat is supplied to the process gas stream A. After flowing through the process gas heating device 24, the process gas stream is fed back into the electrode coating system 1. By way of example, the process gas heating device 24 and the process gas condenser 2 are shown in a housing unit.

[0144] Now the arrangement along the working medium circuit C is described:

[0145] In the first cooling device 21 of the process gas condenser 2, at least a portion of the process gas stream A is cooled. The thermal energy extracted from the process gas stream A is coupled into a working fluid, which circulates in a working fluid circuit C. The working fluid circuit C can transport at least a portion of the thermal energy coupled into the working fluid. A working fluid pump 7 circulates the working fluid, with the electrical energy required for this coming from a generator 51. An electrical line (not shown) connects the generator 51 to the working fluid pump 7 to supply it with power. The first cooling device 21 is thus cooled using the working fluid, whereby the working fluid is evaporated.Overall, the working fluid circuit C transports at least a portion of the thermal energy extracted from the process gas stream A from the process gas condenser 2 to a heat engine 5 designed as a turbine. The working fluid circuit C then leads to the process gas heating device 24, in which thermal energy is transferred from the working fluid circuit C to the process gas stream A. By means of the process gas heating device 24, thermal energy can therefore be coupled into the process gas stream A. In the process, the working fluid in the working fluid circuit C condenses and is fed back to the first cooling device 21.

[0146] The working fluid circuit C has, in particular, a first working fluid line C1, which carries the largely gaseous working fluid from a working fluid outlet 21 ii of the process gas condenser to an inlet 5 i of the heat engine 5. Furthermore, the working fluid circuit C has a second working fluid line C2, which carries the working fluid from an outlet 5 ii of the heat engine 5 to a working fluid inlet 24 i of the process gas heating device 24. Downstream of the process gas heating device 24, the working fluid circuit C has a third working fluid line C3, which carries the now condensed working fluid from a working fluid outlet 24 ii of the process gas heating device 24 to a working fluid inlet 21 i of the process gas condenser 2. The working fluid is guided via the working fluid inlet 21 i to the first cooling device 21, which simultaneously serves as a working fluid heating device for heating the working fluid.The working fluid is evaporated in the first cooling device 21.

[0147] The heat engine 5 is coupled to a generator 51, by means of which mechanical energy is converted into electrical energy, for example, for feeding into a public power grid 53. The second cooling device 22 is flowed through by a cooling water flow D and cooled by means of the cooling water contained therein. At least a portion of the thermal energy from the process gas flow A is thus transferred from the process gas flow to the cooling water flow D. At least a portion of the process gas flow A is cooled by means of the second cooling device 22. The cooling water flow D originates, for example, from an environment and is returned to the environment after flowing through the second cooling device 22.

[0148] The third cooling device 23 is cooled by a refrigerant flow E, similar to the second cooling device. At least part of the thermal energy from the process gas flow A is transferred to the refrigerant contained in the refrigerant flow. Unlike the cooling water flow, the refrigerant flow E is cooled in a refrigeration machine 6. Thermal energy is extracted from the refrigerant flow E and fed into the refrigeration machine 6. The refrigerant flow E originates, for example, from a source of the refrigeration machine (not shown), into which the refrigerant can be returned after flowing through the third cooling device 23. The reference symbol F schematically denotes a heat flow of the refrigeration machine 6, wherein the thermal energy extracted from the refrigerant flow E is transported away from the refrigeration machine 6.

[0149] Fig. 1a shows a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 1.

[0150] The following process steps are carried out with respect to process gas stream A:

[0151] S1 : The process gas is used in the electrode coating process S1, whereby a solvent is transferred into the process gas during the drying of electrodes.

[0152] The condensation step S2 comprises, for example, three cooling stages S21 a, S22a, S23a.

[0153] S21a: The process gas is cooled from approximately 120 °C to 60 °C in a first cooling stage S21a of a condensation step S2. Thermal energy is extracted from process gas stream A. The dashed line indicates, as an example, the heat flow extracted from S21a and directly injected into process step S21b.

[0154] S22a: The process gas is cooled from approximately 60 °C to approximately 30 °C in a second cooling stage S22a of the condensation step S2. Thermal energy is extracted from the process gas stream A. The dashed line indicates, as an example, the heat flow extracted from S22a and injected into process step S22b.

[0155] S23a: The process gas is cooled from approximately 30 °C to approximately 15 °C in a third cooling stage S23a of the condensation step S2. Thermal energy is extracted from the process gas stream A. The dashed line indicates, as an example, the heat flow extracted from S23a and injected into process step S23b.

[0156] S24a: The process gas is heated from approx. 15 °C to approx. 60 °C.

[0157] Thermal energy is coupled into process gas stream A, whereby thermal energy is transferred to the process gas. The dashed line indicates, as an example, the heat flow that is extracted in S24b and directly coupled into process step S24a.

[0158] With regard to the working medium circuit C, the following process steps are carried out:

[0159] S21 b: At least part of the thermal energy extracted from the process gas stream A is directly coupled into the working fluid circuit C. The working fluid in the working fluid circuit C is heated and evaporated.

[0160] S5: In a heat engine 5, at least a portion of the thermal energy contained in the working fluid is converted into mechanical energy. The working fluid is thereby expanded.

[0161] S24b: The working fluid is cooled, and at least a portion of the thermal energy contained in the working fluid is extracted. The working fluid is condensed during the cooling process.

[0162] S51 : Mechanical energy is converted into electrical energy.

[0163] S53: Electrical energy is dissipated from the device.

[0164] The following process steps are carried out with respect to the cooling water flow D:

[0165] S4: Cooling water is fed to a second cooling stage of the process gas condenser 2.

[0166] S22b: At least a portion of the thermal energy extracted from process step S22a is coupled into the cooling water stream D. The cooling water in the cooling water stream D is thereby heated.

[0167] S11 : The cooling water is discharged into an environment.

[0168] The following process steps are carried out with respect to the refrigerant flow E:

[0169] S6: The refrigerant flow E is cooled in a chiller 6.

[0170] S23b: At least a portion of the thermal energy extracted from process step S22a is coupled into the refrigerant stream E. The refrigerant contained in the refrigerant stream E is thereby heated.

[0171] The refrigerant is discharged after process step S22a and returned to the refrigeration machine 6.

[0172] Fig. 2 shows a schematic representation of an arrangement 101 according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system 1 with direct coupling to the working medium circuit C and with use of the refrigerant flow E in the working medium circuit C.

[0173] For the illustration of the arrangement 101 according to the invention in Fig. 2, reference is made to Fig. 1, unless otherwise indicated, analogously to the above description in its entirety. TI

[0174] In comparison to Fig. 1, in the arrangement in Fig. 2, downstream of the process gas heating device 24, a coolant heat exchanger 63 designed as a working fluid condenser is arranged, which is assigned to the working fluid circuit C. The coolant heat exchanger 63 can be cooled by a coolant to condense the working fluid. In this exemplary illustration, the coolant heat exchanger 63 is cooled by a refrigerant flow E, which is conducted separately from the working fluid in the working fluid circuit C. The working fluid circuit C and the refrigerant flow E flow through the coolant heat exchanger 63. Downstream of the heat engine 5, thermal energy is transferred from the working fluid to the process gas with the aid of the process gas heating device 24, wherein the working fluid is still essentially gaseous at the working fluid outlet 24. In the coolant heat exchanger 63, thermal energy can be extracted from the working fluid, wherein the working fluid is condensed and liquefied.The process gas heating device 24 can therefore have a function for pre-cooling the working fluid before the working fluid is condensed. The coolant heat exchanger 63 is embodied here, for example, as a cross-flow heat exchanger. The coolant heat exchanger 63 is cooled by means of the refrigerant flow E, which is designed as a coolant flow and is guided to the coolant heat exchanger 63 after flowing through the second cooling device 23. The refrigerant flow E can optionally be recirculated to the refrigeration machine 6 after flowing through the coolant heat exchanger 63.

[0175] Fig. 2a shows a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 2.

[0176] To illustrate the method according to the invention in Fig. 2a, reference is made to Fig. 1a, unless otherwise indicated, analogously to the above description in full.

[0177] In contrast to Fig. 1a, in the process in Fig. 2a, the working fluid circulating in the working fluid circuit C is first guided to process step S24c after process step S5 and then to process steps S63b, S21b. The refrigerant flow E is guided to process step S63a after process step S23b.

[0178] The following procedural steps are therefore carried out in addition:

[0179] S24c: The working fluid is cooled, and at least a portion of the thermal energy contained in the working fluid is extracted. The dashed line schematically represents the heat flow to process step S24a.

[0180] S63b: The working fluid is cooled and condensed, extracting heat energy from the working fluid located in the working fluid circuit C. The dashed line schematically represents the heat flow to S63a.

[0181] S63a: Thermal energy is coupled into the coolant flow E. Fig. 3 shows a schematic representation of an arrangement 102 according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system 1 with direct coupling to the

[0182] Working fluid circuit C and using the cooling water flow D in the working fluid circuit C.

[0183] To illustrate the arrangement 102 according to the invention in Fig. 3, reference is made to Fig. 1, unless otherwise indicated, analogously to the above description in full.

[0184] In contrast to Fig. 1, in the arrangement in Fig. 3, the cooling water flow D is guided downstream of the second cooling device 22 to the coolant heat exchanger 63, wherein the coolant heat exchanger 63 is cooled by means of the cooling water flow D. Thermal energy is transferred from the working fluid to the cooling water.

[0185] Fig. 3a shows a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 3.

[0186] To illustrate the method according to the invention in Fig. 3a, reference is made to Fig. 1a, unless otherwise indicated, analogously to the above description in full.

[0187] In contrast to Fig. 1a, in the process in Fig. 3a, the cooling water flow D is guided to process step S63c after process step S22b before the cooling water flow D is guided to process step S11. Furthermore, in the working fluid circuit C, process step S24c takes place after process step S5, followed by process steps S63b, S21b.

[0188] The following procedural steps are therefore carried out in addition:

[0189] S63b: The working fluid is condensed, extracting heat energy from the working fluid located in the working fluid circuit C. The dashed line schematically represents the heat flow to S63c.

[0190] S63c: Thermal energy is coupled into the cooling water flow D.

[0191] Fig. 4 shows a schematic representation of an arrangement 103 according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system 1 with direct coupling to the working medium circuit C and with use of the refrigerant flow E as well as with use of the waste heat of the refrigeration machine 6 in the working medium circuit C.

[0192] To illustrate the arrangement 103 according to the invention in Fig. 4, reference is made to Fig. 1 and Fig. 2, unless otherwise indicated, analogously to the above description in full.

[0193] In contrast to Fig. 1, in the arrangement in Fig. 4, the refrigerant flow E is guided to the coolant heat exchanger 63 in a manner analogous to Fig. 2. Waste heat from the refrigeration machine 6 is guided by means of a refrigeration machine heat flow F to the working fluid preheater 66 for coupling at least a portion of the thermal energy into the working fluid, which thermal energy is extracted from the refrigeration machine 6, wherein the thermal energy was previously coupled from the refrigerant flow E into the refrigeration machine 6. The refrigeration machine heat flow F can also be understood as waste heat from the refrigeration machine 6.

[0194] Fig. 4a shows a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 4.

[0195] To illustrate the method according to the invention in Fig. 4a, reference is made to Figs. 1a and 2a, unless otherwise indicated, analogously to the above description in full.

[0196] In contrast to Fig. 2a, in the process in Fig. 4a, process step S66 takes place in the working fluid circuit C after process step S63b. In process step S66, at least a portion of the thermal energy extracted from the refrigeration machine is injected into the working fluid circuit C as refrigeration machine heat flow F.

[0197] Fig. 5 shows a schematic representation of an arrangement 104 according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system 1 with direct coupling to the working medium circuit C and with use of the cooling water flow D as well as with use of the waste heat of the refrigeration machine 6 in the working medium circuit C.

[0198] To illustrate the arrangement 104 according to the invention in Fig. 5, reference is made to Fig. 1 and Fig. 3, unless otherwise indicated, analogously to the above description in its entirety.

[0199] In contrast to Fig. 1, in the arrangement in Fig. 5, the cooling water flow D is guided to the coolant heat exchanger 63 in a manner analogous to Fig. 3. Waste heat from the refrigeration machine 6 is guided by means of a refrigeration machine heat flow F to the working fluid preheater 66 for coupling at least a portion of the thermal energy into the working fluid, which thermal energy is extracted from the refrigeration machine 6, the thermal energy having previously been injected into the refrigeration machine 6 from the coolant flow E.

[0200] Fig. 5a shows a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 5.

[0201] To illustrate the method according to the invention in Fig. 5a, reference is made to Figs. 1a and 3a, unless otherwise indicated, analogously to the above description in full.

[0202] In contrast to Fig. 3a, in the process in Fig. 5a, process step S66 takes place in the working fluid circuit C after process step S63b. In process step S66, at least a portion of the thermal energy extracted from the refrigeration machine is injected into the working fluid circuit C as refrigeration machine heat flow F.

[0203] Fig. 6 shows a schematic representation of an arrangement 105 according to the invention for

[0204] Conversion of energy from an electrode coating system 1 with an intermediate circuit B for coupling to the working fluid circuit C. The reference symbol B generally designates the intermediate circuit and can include the intermediate fluid in both the gaseous and liquid states. This also applies analogously to the reference symbol C, which generally designates the working fluid circuit and can include the working fluid in both the gaseous and liquid states.

[0205] To illustrate the arrangement 105 according to the invention in Fig. 6, reference is made to Fig. 1, unless otherwise indicated, analogously to the above description in full.

[0206] In contrast to Fig. 1, the arrangement 105 in Fig. 6 comprises an intermediate medium circuit B in which, for example, water circulates as an intermediate medium for transporting thermal energy. An intermediate medium pump 71 circulates the intermediate medium in the circuit, wherein the electrical energy required for this comes from the generator 51 and an electrical line (not shown) connects the generator 51 to the intermediate medium pump 71 for the power supply. In the first cooling apparatus 21, at least a portion of the thermal energy present in the process gas stream A is transferred to the intermediate medium circuit B. From an intermediate medium outlet 21iv of the process gas condenser 2, the intermediate medium is discharged by means of a first intermediate medium line B1 and guided to an intermediate medium inlet 9i of the working medium evaporator 9. Both the intermediate medium and the working medium flow through the working medium evaporator 9.In the working fluid evaporator 9, at least a portion of the thermal energy present in the intermediate medium is coupled into the working fluid circuit C for evaporating the working fluid. The thermal energy extracted from the process gas stream A can therefore be transported to the working fluid evaporator 9 with the aid of the intermediate medium. After flowing through the working fluid evaporator 9, the intermediate medium is discharged from an intermediate medium outlet 9ii of the working fluid evaporator 9 with the aid of a second intermediate medium line B2. After being discharged from the working fluid evaporator 9, the intermediate medium is guided via the second intermediate medium line B2 to an intermediate medium inlet 24iii of the process gas heating device 24. In the process gas heating device 24, at least a portion of the thermal energy present in the intermediate medium is transferred to the process gas stream A.After flowing through the process gas heating device 24, the intermediate medium is discharged from the process gas heating device 24 via an intermediate medium outlet 24iv. By means of a third intermediate medium line B3, the intermediate medium circulating in the intermediate medium circuit B is returned to an intermediate medium inlet 21iii of the process gas condenser 2.

[0207] The working fluid circuit C comprises the working fluid evaporator 9 for evaporating the working fluid, the heat engine 5 for converting thermal energy into mechanical energy, and an air heat exchanger 8 designed as a working fluid condenser. The circulation of the working fluid in the circuit is realized analogously to Fig. 1 using the working fluid pump 7. The working fluid is thus fed to a working fluid inlet 9iii of the working fluid evaporator 9. In the working fluid evaporator 9, thermal energy from the intermediate medium is coupled into the working fluid. The working fluid is evaporated and then discharged from the working fluid outlet 9iv of the working fluid evaporator 9 and fed to the inlet 5i of the heat engine.After the working fluid has been expanded in the heat engine, it is guided to the heat engine's outlet 5ii and to the air heat exchanger 8, where thermal energy is extracted from the working fluid and transferred to an air stream. The working fluid condenses. After the working fluid has condensed, the working fluid is guided back to the working fluid inlet 9iii of the working fluid evaporator 9.

[0208] Fig. 6a shows a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 6.

[0209] To illustrate the method according to the invention in Fig. 6a, reference is made to Fig. 1a, unless otherwise indicated, analogously to the above description in full.

[0210] In contrast to Fig. 1 a, the method in Fig. 6a has an intermediate center circle B.

[0211] With regard to the intermediate center circle B, the following process steps are carried out:

[0212] S21 c: At least a portion of the heat energy extracted from the process gas stream A is directly coupled into the intermediate circuit B. The dashed line between S21 a and S21 c represents the heat flow between the two process steps.

[0213] S9a: Thermal energy is extracted from the intermediate circuit B to evaporate the working fluid. The dashed line between S9a and S9b represents the heat flow between the two process steps.

[0214] S24d: Thermal energy is extracted from the intermediate circuit B to heat the process gas stream A. The dashed line between S24d and S24a represents the heat flow between the two process steps.

[0215] With regard to work equipment group C, the following procedural steps are carried out:

[0216] S9b: Thermal energy is coupled into the working fluid circuit C to evaporate the working fluid and the working fluid evaporates.

[0217] Evaporated working fluid is then fed to heat engine 5.

[0218] S5: In heat engine 5, at least a portion of the thermal energy contained in the working fluid is converted into mechanical energy. The working fluid is thereby expanded.

[0219] S8: Heat energy is extracted from the working medium and dissipated into the environment.

[0220] Fig. 7 shows a schematic representation of an arrangement 106 according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system 1 with an intermediate center circuit B for coupling to the working medium circuit C and with use of the cooling water flow D in the intermediate center circuit B. For the representation of the arrangement 106 according to the invention in Fig. 7, reference is made analogously to the above description in full with reference to Fig. 6, unless otherwise indicated.

[0221] In contrast to Fig. 6, in the arrangement in Fig. 7, the cooling water flow D is directed downstream of the second cooling device 22 to the coolant heat exchanger 63, wherein the coolant heat exchanger 63 is cooled by means of the cooling water flow D. At least a portion of the thermal energy is transferred from the intermediate medium to the cooling water. In the coolant heat exchanger 63, the intermediate medium is cooled, and thermal energy is extracted from the intermediate medium circuit B. After flowing through the coolant heat exchanger 63, the cooling water is discharged into the environment.

[0222] Fig. 7a shows a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 7.

[0223] To illustrate the method according to the invention in Fig. 7a, reference is made to Fig. 6a, unless otherwise indicated, analogously to the above description in full.

[0224] In contrast to Fig. 6a, in the method in Fig. 7a, method step S63e takes place after method step S24c.

[0225] In process step S63e, the intermediate medium is cooled, whereby heat energy is extracted from the intermediate medium located in the intermediate medium circuit B. The dashed line schematically represents the heat flow to S63c.

[0226] Fig. 8 shows a schematic representation of an arrangement 107 according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system 1 with an intermediate circuit B for coupling with the working medium circuit C and with use of the cooling water flow D as well as with use of the waste heat of the refrigeration machine 6 in the intermediate circuit B.

[0227] To illustrate the arrangement 107 according to the invention in Fig. 8, reference is made to Fig. 7, unless otherwise indicated, analogously to the above description in full.

[0228] In the arrangement in Fig. 8, the refrigerant flow E is cooled by means of the refrigeration machine 6, whereby a portion of the thermal energy is extracted from the refrigerant flow E and fed into the refrigeration machine 6. At least a portion of the waste heat of the refrigeration machine 6 can therefore comprise the thermal energy extracted from the refrigerant flow E.

[0229] In contrast to Fig. 7, in the arrangement in Fig. 8, the waste heat from the refrigeration machine 6 is fed to an intermediate medium preheater 64, in which thermal energy from the refrigerant flow E can be coupled into the intermediate medium circuit B. At least a portion of the waste heat from the refrigeration machine 6 can thus be usefully recycled by preheating the intermediate medium flow B with it before it is fed to the first cooling device 21. Fig. 8a shows a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 8.

[0230] To illustrate the method according to the invention in Fig. 8a, reference is made to Fig. 7a, unless otherwise indicated, analogously to the above description in full.

[0231] In contrast to Fig. 7a, in the process in Fig. 8a, process step S64 takes place after process step S63e. The dashed line between process steps S6 and S64 indicates the heat flow added to process step S64 as waste heat from the refrigeration machine 6. In process step S64, thermal energy is coupled into the intermediate circuit B.

[0232] Fig. 9 shows a schematic representation of an arrangement 108 according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system 1 with an intermediate circuit B for coupling with the working medium circuit C and with use of the refrigerant flow E in the intermediate circuit B.

[0233] To illustrate the arrangement 108 according to the invention in Fig. 9, reference is made to Fig. 6, unless otherwise indicated, analogously to the above description in full.

[0234] In contrast to Fig. 6, in the arrangement in Fig. 9, the refrigerant flow E is guided downstream of the second cooling device 22 to the coolant heat exchanger 63, wherein the coolant heat exchanger 63 is cooled by means of the refrigerant flow E. At least a portion of the thermal energy is transferred from the intermediate medium to the refrigerant. In the coolant heat exchanger 63, the intermediate medium is cooled, and thermal energy is extracted from the intermediate medium circuit B. After flowing through the coolant heat exchanger 63, the refrigerant can optionally be guided back to the refrigeration machine 6.

[0235] Fig. 9a shows a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 9.

[0236] To illustrate the method according to the invention in Fig. 9a, reference is made to Fig. 6a, unless otherwise indicated, analogously to the above description in full.

[0237] In contrast to Fig. 6a, in the method in Fig. 9a, method step S63e takes place after method step S24d.

[0238] In process step S63e, the intermediate medium is cooled, whereby heat energy is extracted from the intermediate medium located in the intermediate medium circuit B. The dashed line schematically represents the heat flow to S63a.

[0239] In process step S63a, thermal energy is coupled into the refrigerant flow E. Fig. 10 shows a schematic representation of an arrangement 109 according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system 1 with an intermediate circuit B for coupling to the working medium circuit C and with use of the refrigerant flow E as well as with use of the waste heat of the refrigeration machine 6 in the intermediate circuit B.

[0240] To illustrate the arrangement 109 according to the invention in Fig. 10, reference is made to Fig. 9, unless otherwise indicated, analogously to the above description in full.

[0241] In contrast to Fig. 9, in the arrangement in Fig. 10, at least a portion of the waste heat from the refrigeration machine 6 is guided to the intermediate medium preheater 64 and coupled into the intermediate medium circuit B. Analogous to the above embodiment of Fig. 8, at least a portion of the waste heat from the refrigeration machine 6 can be usably recycled by preheating the intermediate medium flow B with the waste heat from the refrigeration machine 6 before it is guided to the first cooling device 21.

[0242] Fig. 10a shows a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 10.

[0243] To illustrate the method according to the invention in Fig. 10a, reference is made to Fig. 9a, unless otherwise indicated, analogously to the above description in full.

[0244] In contrast to Fig. 9a, in the process in Fig. 10a, process step S64 takes place after process step S63e. The dashed line between process steps S6 and S64 indicates the heat flow that is added to process step S64 as waste heat from the refrigeration machine 6. In process step S64, at least a portion of the heat energy extracted from the refrigeration machine 6 is coupled into the intermediate circuit B as refrigeration machine heat flow F.

[0245] Fig. 11 shows a schematic representation of an arrangement 110 according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system 1 with an intermediate circuit B for coupling with the working medium circuit C and with use of the waste heat of the refrigeration machine 6 in the working medium circuit C.

[0246] To illustrate the arrangement 110 according to the invention in Fig. 11, reference is made to Fig. 6, unless otherwise indicated, analogously to the above description in full.

[0247] In contrast to Fig. 6, in the arrangement in Fig. 11, the working fluid preheater 66 is arranged downstream of the air heat exchanger 8, which is designed as a working fluid condenser. The operation of the working fluid preheater 66 can be seen in the above description. With the help of the working fluid preheater 66, the working fluid can be preheated before the working fluid is fed to the working fluid evaporator 9. Waste heat from the refrigeration machine 6 is coupled into the working fluid as thermal energy via the refrigeration machine heat flow F. Fig. 11a shows a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 11.

[0248] To illustrate the method according to the invention in Fig. 11 a, reference is made to Fig. 6a, unless otherwise indicated, analogously to the above description in full.

[0249] In contrast to Fig. 6a, in the method in Fig. 11a, the method step S66 is carried out after the method step S8:

[0250] S66: At least part of the heat energy extracted from the refrigeration machine 6 is coupled into the working fluid circuit C as refrigeration machine heat flow F.

[0251] Fig. 12 shows a schematic representation of an arrangement 111 according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system 1 with an intermediate circuit B for coupling with the working medium circuit C and with use of the refrigerant flow E in the working medium circuit C.

[0252] To illustrate the arrangement 111 according to the invention in Fig. 12, reference is made to Fig. 6, unless otherwise indicated, analogously to the above description in full.

[0253] In contrast to Fig. 6, in the arrangement in Fig. 12, a working fluid cooler 81 for cooling the working fluid is assigned to the working fluid circuit C downstream of the heat engine 5. A coolant heat exchanger 63 is also arranged as a working fluid condenser downstream of the working fluid cooler 81. The condensation process of the working fluid can therefore be divided into two separate steps with this arrangement. In a first step, the temperature of the working fluid can be lowered using the working fluid cooler 81, whereby at least part of the thermal energy can be released to the environment. In a further subsequent step, the working fluid can then be condensed and liquefied using the coolant heat exchanger 63. The working fluid can then be fed in a largely liquid state to the working fluid inlet 9iii of the working fluid evaporator 9.Advantageously, the present arrangement also allows the refrigerant flow E to be used additionally to extract thermal energy from the working fluid circuit C. Optionally, the refrigerant flow E can be fed back to the refrigeration machine 6 downstream of the coolant heat exchanger 63.

[0254] Fig. 12a shows a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 12.

[0255] For the illustration of the method according to the invention in Fig. 12a, reference is made to Fig. 6a, unless otherwise indicated, analogously to the above description in its entirety. In contrast to Fig. 6a, in the method in Fig. 12a, method step S81 is performed after method step S5. Method step S5 takes place after method step S9b. The following method steps are therefore performed with respect to the working fluid circuit C:

[0256] S81: Heat energy is removed from the working fluid. The temperature of the working fluid is reduced.

[0257] S63b: The working fluid is cooled and condensed, extracting heat energy from the working fluid located in the working fluid circuit C. The dashed line schematically represents the heat flow to S63a.

[0258] S9b: Heat energy is coupled into the working fluid circuit C to evaporate the working fluid and the working fluid evaporates.

[0259] The following process steps are carried out with respect to the refrigerant stream E:

[0260] In contrast to Fig. 6a, process step S63a takes place after process step S23b. After process step S63a, the refrigerant flow E is, for example, returned to process step S6.

[0261] S63a: Heat energy is coupled into the refrigerant flow E.

[0262] Fig. 13 shows a schematic representation of an arrangement 112 according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system 1 with an intermediate circuit B for coupling to the working medium circuit C and with use of the cooling water flow D in the working medium circuit C.

[0263] To illustrate the arrangement 112 according to the invention in Fig. 13, reference is made to Fig. 12, unless otherwise indicated, analogously to the above description in full.

[0264] In contrast to Fig. 12, in the arrangement in Fig. 13, the coolant heat exchanger 63 designed as a working fluid condenser is cooled with the cooling water flow D. The cooling water flow D can, for example, originate from an environment, for example from a cooling water source, and first flows through the second cooling apparatus 22 to absorb thermal energy from the process gas flow A. The present arrangement allows the cooling water flow D to be advantageously used to absorb even more thermal energy in addition to the part from the process gas flow A. In particular, a usable residual heat capacity of the cooling water flow D can be further utilized to condense the working fluid.

[0265] The usable residual heat capacity of the cooling water flow D can therefore be understood as the thermal energy absorption capacity that is still available after thermal energy has already been absorbed, in this example after flowing through the second cooling device 22. Technically, a certain usable residual heat capacity of the cooling water flow D can be present if condensation of the working fluid in the coolant heat exchanger 63 can be realized with the aid of the cooling water flow D. The concept of usable residual heat capacity can also be generally applied to a coolant flow, i.e., both for the cooling water flow D and for the refrigerant flow E. Technically, in this sense, a usable residual heat capacity of a coolant flow can generally be present if a cooling effect can be achieved with the aid of the coolant flow.

[0266] Fig. 13a shows a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 13.

[0267] To illustrate the method according to the invention in Fig. 13a, reference is made to Fig. 12a, unless otherwise indicated, analogously to the above description in full.

[0268] In contrast to Fig. 12a, in the process shown in Fig. 13a, the heat flow occurs between process step S63b and process step S63c. The heat flow resulting from process step S63b is thus coupled into process step S63c.

[0269] In process step S63c, thermal energy is coupled into the cooling water stream D.

[0270] After process step S63c, process step S11 takes place, wherein the cooling water flow D is discharged into an environment.

[0271] Fig. 14 shows a schematic representation of an arrangement 113 according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system 1 with an intermediate circuit B for coupling with the working medium circuit C and with use of the cooling water flow D as well as with use of the waste heat of the refrigeration machine 6 in the working medium circuit C.

[0272] To illustrate the arrangement 113 according to the invention in Fig. 14, reference is made to Fig. 13, unless otherwise indicated, analogously to the above description in full.

[0273] In contrast to Fig. 13, in the arrangement in Fig. 14, the working fluid preheater 66 is arranged downstream of the coolant heat exchanger 63 with respect to the working fluid circuit C. Waste heat from the refrigeration machine 6 is conducted by means of the refrigeration machine heat flow F to the working fluid preheater 66 for coupling at least a portion of the thermal energy into the working fluid, which thermal energy is extracted from the refrigeration machine 6, the thermal energy having previously been injected into the refrigeration machine 6 from the coolant flow E.

[0274] Fig. 14a shows a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 14.

[0275] To illustrate the method according to the invention in Fig. 14a, reference is made to Fig. 13a, unless otherwise indicated, analogously to the above description in full.

[0276] In contrast to Fig. 13a, in the process in Fig. 14a, process step S66 takes place downstream of process step S63b with respect to the working fluid circuit C. In process step S66, at least a portion of the thermal energy extracted from the refrigeration machine 6 is coupled into the working fluid circuit C, represented as the refrigeration machine heat flow F.

[0277] Fig. 15 shows a schematic representation of an arrangement 114 according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system 1 with an intermediate circuit B for coupling with the working medium circuit C and with use of the refrigerant flow E as well as with use of the waste heat of the refrigeration machine 6 in the working medium circuit C.

[0278] To illustrate the arrangement 114 according to the invention in Fig. 15, reference is made to Fig. 14, unless otherwise indicated, analogously to the above description in its entirety.

[0279] In contrast to Fig. 14, in the arrangement in Fig. 15, the coolant heat exchanger 63, which is designed as a working medium condenser, is cooled with the refrigerant flow E. The refrigerant flow E is cooled in the refrigeration machine 6 downstream of the third cooling device 23. After flowing through the third cooling device 23, the refrigerant flow E is guided to the coolant heat exchanger 63. Downstream of the coolant heat exchanger 63, the refrigerant flow E can optionally be guided back to the refrigeration machine. The present arrangement therefore allows the refrigerant flow E to be advantageously used to absorb even more thermal energy in the third cooling device 23, wherein the refrigerant flow E has already previously absorbed a certain amount of thermal energy from the process gas flow A. In particular, a usable residual heat capacity of the refrigerant flow E can be used to condense the working medium. In this arrangement, too, analogous to the above description in Fig.12, the condensation process of the working fluid is carried out separately. This is done using the working fluid cooler 81, first to lower the working fluid temperature, and then using the coolant heat exchanger 63 to condense the working fluid.

[0280] As in Fig. 14, in this arrangement 114 according to Fig. 15, waste heat from the refrigeration machine 6 is coupled into the working fluid circuit C with the aid of the working fluid preheater 66. Particularly advantageous in this arrangement from an energy perspective is the use of the waste heat from the refrigeration machine 6, wherein at least a portion of the total thermal energy coupled into the refrigerant flow E, which originates both from the third cooling apparatus 23 and from the coolant heat exchanger 63, can be coupled into the working fluid circuit C for preheating the working fluid.

[0281] Fig. 15a shows a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 15.

[0282] To illustrate the method according to the invention in Fig. 15a, reference is made to Fig. 14a, unless otherwise indicated, analogously to the above description in full.

[0283] In contrast to Fig. 14a, in the process shown in Fig. 15a, process step S63b takes place after process step S81. In process step S63b, the working fluid is cooled and condensed. In the process, thermal energy is extracted from the working fluid located in the working fluid circuit C. The dashed line represents a heat flow to S63a.

[0284] In process step S63a, heat energy is coupled into the refrigerant flow E. The refrigerant flow E then returns to process step S6, where heat energy is extracted from the refrigerant flow E. The dashed line represents the heat flow to step S66.

[0285] Fig. 16 shows a schematic representation of an arrangement 115 according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system 1 with an intermediate circuit B for coupling with the working medium circuit C and with use of the refrigerant flow E for condensing a working medium.

[0286] To illustrate the arrangement 115 according to the invention in Fig. 16, reference is made to the above description in full with reference to Fig. 6, unless otherwise indicated.

[0287] With respect to the working fluid circuit C, in the arrangement in Fig. 16, the working fluid is guided downstream of the heat engine 5 to the coolant heat exchanger 63, which is designed as a working fluid condenser. The coolant heat exchanger 63 is cooled by means of the refrigerant flow E, with at least a portion of the thermal energy being extracted from the working fluid circuit and injected into the refrigerant flow E. The working fluid is thereby cooled and condensed.

[0288] The refrigerant flow E cooled by the refrigeration unit 6 is fed to the third cooling device 23. Downstream of the third cooling device 23, the refrigerant flow E is fed to the coolant heat exchanger 63 for further absorption of thermal energy. Optionally, the refrigerant flow E can be fed back to the refrigeration unit 6 downstream of the coolant heat exchanger 63.

[0289] Fig. 16a shows a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 16.

[0290] To illustrate the method according to the invention in Fig. 16a, reference is made to Fig. 6a, unless otherwise indicated, analogously to the above description in full.

[0291] In contrast to Fig. 6a, the following process steps are carried out in the process in Fig. 16a:

[0292] After process step S23b, process step S63a takes place.

[0293] S63a: Heat energy is coupled into the refrigerant flow E. The dashed line represents the heat flow that is coupled into process step S63a.

[0294] After process step S63a, the refrigerant flow E is returned to process step S6.

[0295] After process step S5, process step S63b takes place. S63b: The working fluid is cooled and condensed, extracting heat energy from the working fluid in the working fluid circuit C. The dashed line schematically represents the heat flow to S63a.

[0296] Fig. 17 shows a schematic representation of an arrangement 116 according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system 1 with an intermediate circuit B for coupling with the working medium circuit C and with use of the refrigerant flow E for condensing a working medium and with use of the waste heat of the refrigeration machine 6 in the working medium circuit C.

[0297] To illustrate the arrangement 116 according to the invention in Fig. 17, reference is made to the above description in full with reference to Fig. 16, unless otherwise indicated.

[0298] In contrast to Fig. 16, in the arrangement 116 in Fig. 17, a working fluid preheater 66 is arranged downstream of the coolant heat exchanger 63 with respect to the working fluid circuit C. Waste heat from the refrigeration machine 6 is conducted by means of the refrigeration machine heat flow F to the working fluid preheater 66 for coupling at least a portion of the thermal energy into the working fluid, which thermal energy is extracted from the refrigeration machine 6, wherein the thermal energy from the refrigerant flow E was injected into the refrigeration machine 6.

[0299] Fig. 17a shows a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 17.

[0300] To illustrate the method according to the invention in Fig. 17a, reference is made to Fig. 16a, unless otherwise indicated, analogously to the above description in full.

[0301] In contrast to Fig. 16a, in the method in Fig. 17a, method step S66 is executed after method step S63b:

[0302] S66: At least part of the heat energy extracted from the refrigeration machine is coupled into the working fluid circuit C as refrigeration machine heat flow F.

[0303] Fig. 18 shows a schematic representation of an arrangement 117 according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system 1 with an intermediate circuit B for coupling with the working medium circuit C and with use of the cooling water flow D for condensing a working medium.

[0304] To illustrate the arrangement 117 according to the invention in Fig. 18, reference is made to the above description in full with reference to Fig. 16, unless otherwise indicated.

[0305] In contrast to Fig. 16, in the arrangement in Fig. 18, the coolant heat exchanger 63 designed as a working medium condenser is cooled with the cooling water flow D. The cooling water flow D can, for example, originate from an environment, for example from a cooling water source, and first flows through the second cooling apparatus 22 to absorb thermal energy from the process gas flow A. The present arrangement allows the cooling water flow D to be advantageously used to absorb even more thermal energy in addition to the part from the process gas flow A. In particular, a usable residual heat capacity of the cooling water flow D can be used to condense the working medium.

[0306] Fig. 18a shows a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 18.

[0307] To illustrate the method according to the invention in Fig. 18a, reference is made to Fig. 16a, unless otherwise indicated, analogously to the above description in full.

[0308] In contrast to Fig. 16a, in the process shown in Fig. 18a, the heat flow occurs between process step S63b and process step S63c. The heat flow resulting from process step S63b is thus coupled into process step S63c.

[0309] In process step S63c, thermal energy is coupled into the cooling water flow D. The description of process step S63b can be found in the above description.

[0310] With regard to the cooling water flow D, the method step S11 is carried out after the method step S63c, in which the cooling water flow D is discharged into an environment.

[0311] Fig. 19 shows a schematic representation of an arrangement 118 according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system 1 with an intermediate circuit B for coupling with the working medium circuit C and with use of the cooling water flow D for condensing a working medium and with use of the waste heat of the refrigeration machine 6 in the working medium circuit C.

[0312] To illustrate the arrangement 118 according to the invention in Fig. 19, reference is made to Fig. 18, unless otherwise indicated, analogously to the above description in its entirety.

[0313] In contrast to Fig. 18, in the arrangement in Fig. 19, the working fluid preheater 66 is arranged downstream of the coolant heat exchanger 63 with respect to the working fluid circuit C. Waste heat from the refrigeration machine 6 is conducted by means of a refrigeration machine heat flow F to the working fluid preheater 66 for coupling at least a portion of the thermal energy into the working fluid, which thermal energy is extracted from the refrigeration machine 6, the thermal energy being coupled from the refrigerant flow E into the refrigeration machine 6.

[0314] Fig. 19a shows a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 19. For the representation of the method according to the invention in Fig. 19a, reference is made analogously to the above description in full with reference to Fig. 18a, unless otherwise indicated.

[0315] In contrast to Fig. 18a, in the method in Fig. 19a, method step S66 is carried out after method step S63b:

[0316] S66: At least part of the heat energy extracted from the refrigeration machine is coupled into the working fluid circuit C as refrigeration machine heat flow F.

[0317] Fig. 20 shows a schematic representation of an arrangement 119 according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system 1 with an intermediate circuit B for direct evaporation and condensation of the working medium.

[0318] To illustrate the arrangement 119 according to the invention in Fig. 20, reference is made to Fig. 6, unless otherwise indicated, analogously to the above description in full.

[0319] In contrast to Fig. 6, in the arrangement in Fig. 20, the intermediate medium circuit B comprises an air cooler 82 for cooling an intermediate medium circulating in the intermediate medium circuit B. The air cooler 82 is arranged downstream of the working medium evaporator 9. Furthermore, the intermediate medium circuit B comprises an intermediate medium heat exchanger 68 designed as a working medium condenser, which is cooled by means of the intermediate medium to condense the working medium. The intermediate medium heat exchanger 68 is flowed through both as a heat-absorbing flow from the intermediate medium and as a heat-releasing flow from the working medium, whereby heat energy is transferred from the working medium to the intermediate medium. The working medium is thus condensed directly by means of the intermediate medium, whereby heat energy is transferred between two adjacent flows.In this case, the flows of the intermediate medium circuit B and the working medium circuit C are arranged adjacent to each other within the intermediate medium heat exchanger 68. The direct heat transfer in the intermediate medium heat exchanger 68 thus occurs analogously to the working medium evaporator 9, whereby the heat flow in the case of the condensation process of the working medium in the intermediate medium heat exchanger 68 is directed in the opposite direction to the evaporation process in the working medium evaporator 9.

[0320] By means of a first intermediate medium line B1, the intermediate medium is guided to an intermediate medium inlet 9i of the working medium evaporator. Via a second intermediate medium line B2, the intermediate medium is discharged from an intermediate medium outlet 9ii of the working medium evaporator 9. The intermediate medium is guided to the air cooler 82, in which the intermediate medium is cooled and thermal energy is extracted from the intermediate medium. The thermal energy is dissipated into the environment via a fan of the air cooler 82. The intermediate medium is guided downstream of the air cooler 82 to the intermediate medium heat exchanger 68, by means of which the intermediate medium is heated, whereby thermal energy is extracted during the condensation of the working medium and is injected into the intermediate medium. The heated intermediate medium is discharged from the

[0321] Intermediate heat exchanger 68 and led to the process gas heating device 24.

[0322] With regard to the working fluid circuit C, in contrast to Fig. 6, in the arrangement in Fig. 20, the working fluid is conducted downstream of the heat engine 5 via a working fluid inlet 68iii of the intermediate fluid heat exchanger 68 to the intermediate fluid heat exchanger 68, in which the working fluid is condensed. After the condensation process, the working fluid is conducted back to an inlet 9iii of the working fluid evaporator 9 via a working fluid outlet 68iv of the intermediate fluid heat exchanger 68.

[0323] Fig. 20a shows a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 20.

[0324] To illustrate the method according to the invention in Fig. 20a, reference is made to Fig. 6a, unless otherwise indicated, analogously to the above description in full.

[0325] In the process in Fig. 20a, the following process steps are carried out with respect to the intermediate center circle B:

[0326] S82: Heat energy is extracted from the intermediate medium. The intermediate medium is cooled.

[0327] S68a: Thermal energy is coupled into the intermediate medium using the intermediate medium heat exchanger 68. The intermediate medium is heated. The dashed line represents a heat flow between S68b and S68a.

[0328] With regard to the working fluid circuit C, process step S68b is carried out after process step S5:

[0329] S68b: Thermal energy is extracted from the working fluid using the intermediate heat exchanger 68. The working fluid is cooled and condensed. The thermal energy extracted from the working fluid is fed into process step S68a.

[0330] Fig. 21 shows a schematic representation of an arrangement 120 according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system 1 with an intermediate circuit B for direct evaporation and pre-cooling of the working medium and with use of the waste heat of the refrigeration machine 6 in the working medium circuit C.

[0331] To illustrate the arrangement 120 according to the invention in Fig. 21, reference is made to the above description in full with reference to Fig. 20, unless otherwise indicated.

[0332] In contrast to Fig. 20, in the arrangement in Fig. 21, the working fluid preheater 66 is arranged downstream of the intermediate fluid heat exchanger 68 with respect to the working fluid circuit C. The working fluid preheater 66 is heated using the refrigeration machine heat flow F. The working fluid can be preheated using the working fluid preheater 66 before the working fluid is fed to the working fluid evaporator 9. In particular, the heat energy required in the working fluid evaporator 9 to evaporate the working fluid I can be reduced using the working fluid preheater 66. The functioning of the working fluid preheater 66 can be seen in the above description.

[0333] Fig. 21a shows a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 21.

[0334] To illustrate the method according to the invention in Fig. 21a, reference is made to Fig. 20a, unless otherwise indicated, analogously to the above description in full.

[0335] In contrast to Fig. 20a, in the method in Fig. 21a, method step S66 is executed after method step S68b. The description of method step S66 can be found above.

[0336] Fig. 22 shows a schematic representation of an arrangement 121 according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system 1 with an intermediate circuit B for direct evaporation and pre-cooling of the working medium I and with use of the refrigerant flow E in the working medium circuit C.

[0337] To illustrate the arrangement 121 according to the invention in Fig. 22, reference is made to the above description in full with reference to Fig. 20, unless otherwise indicated.

[0338] In contrast to Fig. 20, in the arrangement in Fig. 22, a working fluid precooler 69 for precooling the working fluid is arranged downstream of the heat engine 5 with respect to the working fluid circuit C. The working fluid precooler 69 is cooled by means of the intermediate fluid, whereby thermal energy is extracted from the working fluid and injected into the intermediate fluid.

[0339] Furthermore, the coolant heat exchanger 63 for condensing the working fluid is arranged in the working fluid circuit C downstream of the working fluid precooler 69, in which the working fluid is cooled and condensed. In summary, after expansion in the heat engine 5, the working fluid is first precooled in a first step, i.e., its temperature is lowered, and then condensed in a second step before the working fluid is fed to the working fluid evaporator 9.

[0340] With respect to the intermediate medium circuit B, the intermediate medium is first fed for direct evaporation in the working medium evaporator 9 and then used for direct precooling in the working medium precooler 69. The terms "direct evaporation" and "direct precooling" can be applied analogously to the above description of Fig. 20; in particular, they refer to heat transfer between two adjacent flows. Fig. 22a shows a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 22.

[0341] To illustrate the method according to the invention in Fig. 22a, reference is made to Fig. 20a, unless otherwise indicated, analogously to the above description in full.

[0342] In the process in Fig. 22a, the following process steps are further carried out:

[0343] S69b: Thermal energy is extracted from the working fluid using the working fluid precooler 69. The dashed line represents the heat flow extracted from process step S69b and injected into process step S69a.

[0344] S69a: Heat energy is coupled into the intermediate medium using the working medium pre-cooler 69.

[0345] S63b: The working fluid is cooled and condensed, extracting heat energy from the working fluid located in the working fluid circuit C. The dashed line schematically represents the heat flow to S63a.

[0346] Fig. 23 shows a schematic representation of an arrangement 122 according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system 1 with an intermediate circuit B for direct evaporation and cooling of the working medium and with use of the refrigerant flow E and the waste heat of the refrigeration machine 6 in the working medium circuit C.

[0347] To illustrate the arrangement 122 according to the invention in Fig. 23, reference is made to the above description in full with reference to Fig. 22, unless otherwise indicated.

[0348] In contrast to Fig. 22, in the arrangement in Fig. 23, the working fluid preheater 66 is arranged downstream of a coolant heat exchanger 63 with respect to the working fluid circuit C. For the operation of the working fluid preheater 66, reference is made to the above description, in particular to that in Fig. 21.

[0349] Fig. 23a shows a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 23.

[0350] To illustrate the method according to the invention in Fig. 23a, reference is made to Fig. 22a, unless otherwise indicated, analogously to the above description in full.

[0351] In contrast to Fig. 22a, in the process in Fig. 23a, process step S66 is executed after process step S63b in the working fluid circuit C. Process step S66 can be found in the description above.

[0352] Fig. 24 shows a schematic representation of an arrangement 123 according to the invention for

[0353] Conversion of energy from an electrode coating system 1 with an intermediate circuit B for direct evaporation and pre-cooling of the working fluid I and with use of the cooling water flow D in the working fluid circuit C.

[0354] To illustrate the arrangement 123 according to the invention in Fig. 24, reference is made to the above description in full with reference to Fig. 22, unless otherwise indicated.

[0355] In contrast to Fig. 22, in the arrangement shown in Fig. 24, the coolant heat exchanger 63 is cooled by means of the cooling water flow D, whereby thermal energy is extracted from the working fluid and a temperature reduction and condensation of the working fluid is brought about. The cooling water flow D can be discharged into the environment downstream of the coolant heat exchanger 63.

[0356] Fig. 24a shows a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 24.

[0357] To illustrate the method according to the invention in Fig. 24a, reference is made to Fig. 22a, unless otherwise indicated, analogously to the above description in full.

[0358] In contrast to Fig. 22a, in the process in Fig. 24a, the heat flow from process step S63b is coupled into process step S63c, in which heat energy is coupled into the cooling water flow D. Instead of using the refrigerant flow E in Fig. 22a, in Fig. 24a the cooling capacity, i.e. the heat flow between process steps S63b and S63a, is provided using the cooling water flow D. The corresponding process steps S4, S22b, S63c, and S11 of the cooling water flow D can be found in the description above.

[0359] Fig. 25 shows a schematic representation of an arrangement 124 according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system 1 with an intermediate circuit B for direct evaporation and cooling of the working medium and with use of the cooling water flow D and the waste heat of the refrigeration machine 6 in the working medium circuit C.

[0360] To illustrate the arrangement 124 according to the invention in Fig. 25, reference is made to Fig. 23, unless otherwise indicated, analogously to the above description in its entirety.

[0361] In contrast to Fig. 23, the coolant heat exchanger 63 in the arrangement in Fig. 25 is cooled by means of a cooling water flow D, whereby thermal energy is extracted from the working fluid and a temperature reduction and condensation of the working fluid is brought about. The cooling water flow D can be discharged into the environment downstream of the coolant heat exchanger 63.

[0362] Fig. 25a shows a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 25. For the representation of the method according to the invention in Fig. 25a, reference is made analogously to the above description in full with reference to Fig. 23a, unless otherwise indicated.

[0363] In contrast to Fig. 23a, in the process in Fig. 25a, a heat flow connects process step S63b with process step S63c. Thus, heat energy is coupled into the cooling water flow D in process step S63c. Instead of using the refrigerant flow E in Fig. 23a, in the process in Fig. 25a, the cooling capacity, i.e., the heat flow between process steps S63b and S63a, is provided using the cooling water flow D. The corresponding process steps S4, S22b, S63c, and S11 of the cooling water flow D can be found in the description above.

[0364] Fig. 26 shows a schematic representation of an arrangement 125 according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system 1 with two intermediate circuits (Ba, Bb) for direct evaporation and condensation of the working medium.

[0365] For the illustration of the arrangement according to the invention, unless otherwise indicated, reference is made analogously to the above description in its entirety.

[0366] The description of the arrangement along the process gas flow A can be derived analogously from the above description, for example from the description of Fig. 1. The arrangement in Fig. 26 differs from those in Fig. 6 to Fig. 25 in particular in that the arrangement 115 comprises two intermediate center circles Ba and Bb.

[0367] A first intermediate circuit Ba and a second intermediate circuit Bb each connect the process gas stream A to the working fluid circuit C in a heat-conducting manner. The first intermediate circuit Ba is intended in particular to couple at least a portion of the thermal energy extracted from the process gas stream A into the working fluid circuit C for conversion in the heat engine 5. The second intermediate circuit Bb is intended in particular to couple at least a portion of the thermal energy extracted from the working fluid circuit C into the process gas stream A. The main transfer directions of the heat flow between the process gas stream A and the working fluid circuit C are therefore opposite to one another in the two intermediate circuits Ba, Bb. Because the intermediate circuits Ba, Bb are separated from one another, this arrangement makes it possible, in particular, to achieve different operating temperatures for the respective intermediate circuits Ba, Bb.It is therefore advantageous to use different intermediate media in the respective intermediate media circuit Ba or Bb. In particular, the first intermediate media circuit Ba can be operated at higher temperatures than the second intermediate media circuit Bb. For example, an inorganic intermediate media such as water can be used in the first intermediate media circuit Ba and an organic intermediate media such as isopentane, isooctane or silicone oil in the second intermediate media circuit Bb. A corresponding intermediate media can in particular circulate in the respective intermediate media circuit Ba or Bb, i.e. a first intermediate media can circulate in the first intermediate media circuit Ba and a second intermediate media in the second intermediate media circuit Bb. The first intermediate media can be led via the intermediate media inlet 21 iii of the process gas condenser 2 into the first cooling device 21 to absorb thermal energy and can be discharged from the first cooling device 21 via the intermediate media outlet 21 iv.The first intermediate medium can be supplied to the intermediate medium inlet 9ii of the working medium evaporator 9, in particular for evaporating working medium, by means of the first intermediate medium line B1, wherein the thermal energy extracted from the process gas stream A can be transported to the working medium evaporator 9 by means of the first intermediate medium.

[0368] The second intermediate agent can be supplied via an intermediate agent inlet 83iii of the

[0369] The working fluid is fed from the second intermediate medium heat exchanger 83, designed as a working fluid condenser, into the second intermediate medium heat exchanger 83 for absorbing thermal energy, wherein the working fluid is cooled and condensed. The working fluid is introduced into the second intermediate medium heat exchanger 83 via a working fluid inlet 83i of the second intermediate medium heat exchanger 83. After the condensation process, the working fluid is discharged via a working fluid outlet 83ii of the second intermediate medium heat exchanger 83. By means of the third working fluid line C3, the working fluid can be fed to the working fluid inlet 9iii of the working fluid evaporator 9, designed as a working fluid heating device, for evaporating the working fluid.

[0370] The intermediate medium can be discharged from the second intermediate medium heat exchanger 83 via an intermediate medium outlet 83iv of the second intermediate medium heat exchanger 83. The second intermediate medium can be supplied to the intermediate medium inlet 24iii of the process gas heating device 24 for supplying intermediate medium via the second intermediate medium line B2, wherein at least part of the thermal energy from the working medium can be transferred to the process gas stream A via the process gas heating device 24. The second intermediate medium can be discharged from the process gas heating device 24 via the intermediate medium outlet 24iv of the process gas heating device 24 and then supplied to the intermediate medium inlet 83iii of the second intermediate medium heat exchanger 83.

[0371] Fig. 26a shows a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 26.

[0372] For the illustration of the method according to the invention in Fig. 26a, unless otherwise indicated, reference is made analogously to the above description in full.

[0373] The method according to the invention in Fig. 26a differs, for example, from that in Fig. 20a in particular in that it comprises method steps along two intermediate center circles Ba and Bb.

[0374] The following process steps are carried out with respect to the first intermediate center circle Ba:

[0375] S9c: Thermal energy is extracted from the first intermediate circuit Ba to evaporate the working fluid. The dashed line between S9c and S9b represents the heat flow between the two process steps. S21d: At least a portion of the thermal energy extracted from the process gas stream A is directly coupled to an intermediate fluid flowing in the first intermediate circuit Ba.

[0376] The following process steps are carried out with respect to the second intermediate center circle Bb:

[0377] S83a: Heat energy is transferred to the intermediate medium located in the second intermediate medium circuit Bb. The dashed line represents the heat flow, which directly couples process step S83b with process step S83a.

[0378] S24e: At least part of the thermal energy extracted from the process gas stream A is directly coupled to an intermediate medium flowing in the second intermediate medium circuit Bb.

[0379] With regard to the working fluid circuit C, in particular, in contrast to the method in Fig. 20, the method step S83b is carried out after the method step S5:

[0380] S83b: The working fluid is cooled and condensed in particular by means of the second intermediate medium heat exchanger 83, whereby thermal energy is extracted from the working fluid located in the working fluid circuit C.

[0381] Fig. 27 shows a schematic representation of an arrangement 126 according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system 1 with two intermediate circuits Ba, Bb for direct evaporation and condensation of the working medium and with use of the refrigerant flow E in an intermediate circuit Bb.

[0382] To illustrate the arrangement 126 according to the invention in Fig. 27, reference is made to the above description in full with reference to Fig. 26, unless otherwise indicated.

[0383] The arrangement in Fig. 27 differs from that in Fig. 26 in particular in that the arrangement 126 further comprises a second coolant heat exchanger 92, which is assigned to the second intermediate circuit Bb. The second coolant heat exchanger 92 is cooled in particular by means of the refrigerant flow E and is intended to transfer at least part of the thermal energy from the second intermediate circuit Bb to the refrigerant flow E. The second coolant heat exchanger 92 can function in a similar manner to the coolant heat exchanger 63, wherein reference is made at this point to the above description of the coolant heat exchanger 63.

[0384] Fig. 27a shows a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 27.

[0385] To illustrate the method according to the invention in Fig. 27a, reference is made to Fig. 26a, unless otherwise indicated, analogously to the above description in full.

[0386] In contrast to the process in Fig. 26a, the following process steps are carried out in the process in Fig. 27a: S92a: At least part of the thermal energy originating from the second intermediate circuit Bb is coupled into the refrigerant flow E.

[0387] S92e: The intermediate medium is cooled, whereby heat energy is extracted from the intermediate medium located in the second intermediate medium circuit Bb.

[0388] Fig. 28 shows a schematic representation of an arrangement 127 according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system 1 with two intermediate circuits Ba, Bb for direct evaporation and condensation of the working medium and with use of the refrigerant flow E in one intermediate circuit Bb and the waste heat of the refrigeration machine 6 in another intermediate circuit Ba.

[0389] To illustrate the arrangement 127 according to the invention in Fig. 28, reference is made to Fig. 27, unless otherwise indicated, analogously to the above description in full.

[0390] The arrangement in Fig. 28 differs from that in Fig. 27 in particular in that the arrangement 127 further includes a first intermediate medium preheater 93 for heating the intermediate medium circulating in the first intermediate medium circuit Ba. The waste heat from the refrigeration machine 6 is fed to the first intermediate medium preheater 93, in which at least a portion of the waste heat can be coupled into the first intermediate medium circuit Ba. At least a portion of the waste heat from the refrigeration machine 6 can thus be used for recycling by preheating the first intermediate medium flow Ba therewith before it is fed to the first cooling device 21.

[0391] Fig. 28a shows a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 28.

[0392] To illustrate the method according to the invention in Fig. 28a, reference is made to Fig. 27a, unless otherwise indicated, analogously to the above description in full.

[0393] In contrast to the method in Fig. 27a, in the method in Fig. 28a, with respect to the first intermediate center circle Ba, method step S93 is carried out after method step S9c.

[0394] S93: At least part of the heat energy extracted from the refrigeration machine 6 is coupled into the first intermediate circuit Ba as refrigeration machine heat flow F.

[0395] Fig. 29 shows a schematic representation of an arrangement 128 according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system 1 with two intermediate circuits Ba, Bb for direct evaporation and condensation of the working medium and with use of the cooling water flow D in an intermediate circuit Bb.

[0396] To illustrate the arrangement 128 according to the invention in Fig. 29, with reference to Fig. 26, unless otherwise indicated, reference is made analogously to the above description in its entirety. The arrangement in Fig. 29 differs from that in Fig. 26 in particular in that the arrangement 128 further comprises a second coolant heat exchanger 92, which is assigned to the second intermediate center circuit Bb. The second coolant heat exchanger 92 is cooled in particular with the aid of the cooling water flow D and is intended to transfer at least part of the thermal energy from the second intermediate center circuit Bb to the cooling water flow D. The second coolant heat exchanger 92 can function in a similar manner to the coolant heat exchanger 63, wherein at this point reference is made to the above description of the coolant heat exchanger 63.

[0397] Fig. 29a shows a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 29.

[0398] To illustrate the method according to the invention in Fig. 29a, reference is made to Fig. 27a, unless otherwise indicated, analogously to the above description in full.

[0399] In contrast to the procedure in Fig. 26a, the following steps are carried out in the procedure in Fig. 29a:

[0400] S92c: At least part of the thermal energy originating from the second intermediate circuit Bb is coupled into the cooling water flow D.

[0401] S92e: The intermediate medium is cooled, whereby heat energy is extracted from the intermediate medium located in the second intermediate medium circuit Bb.

[0402] Fig. 30 shows a schematic representation of an arrangement 129 according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system 1 with two intermediate circuits Ba, Bb for direct evaporation and condensation of the working medium and with use of the cooling water flow D in one intermediate circuit Bb and the waste heat of the refrigeration machine 6 in another intermediate circuit Ba.

[0403] To illustrate the arrangement 129 according to the invention in Fig. 30, reference is made to Fig. 29, unless otherwise indicated, analogously to the above description in full.

[0404] The arrangement in Fig. 30 differs from that in Fig. 29 in particular in that the arrangement 129 further comprises the first intermediate medium preheater 93 for heating the intermediate medium circulating in the first intermediate medium circuit Ba. The waste heat from the refrigeration machine 6 is fed to the first intermediate medium preheater 93, in which at least a portion of the waste heat can be coupled into the first intermediate medium circuit Ba. At least a portion of the waste heat from the refrigeration machine 6 can thus be used for recycling by preheating the first intermediate medium flow Ba therewith before it is fed to the first cooling device 21.

[0405] Fig. 30a shows a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 30. For the representation of the method according to the invention in Fig. 30a, reference is made analogously to the above description in full with reference to Fig. 29a, unless otherwise indicated.

[0406] In contrast to the method in Fig. 29a, in the method in Fig. 30a, with respect to the first intermediate center circle Ba, method step S93 is carried out after method step S9c.

[0407] S93: At least a part of the heat energy extracted from the refrigeration machine 6 is coupled into the first intermediate circuit Ba as refrigeration machine heat flow F.

[0408] Fig. 31 shows a schematic representation of an arrangement 130 according to the invention for converting energy from an electrode coating system 1 with two intermediate circuits Ba, Bb for direct evaporation and condensation of the working medium and with use of the waste heat of the refrigeration machine 6 in an intermediate circuit Ba.

[0409] To illustrate the arrangement 130 according to the invention in Fig. 31, reference is made to Fig. 26, unless otherwise indicated, analogously to the above description in its entirety.

[0410] The arrangement in Fig. 31 differs from that in Fig. 26 in particular in that the arrangement 130 further comprises the first intermediate medium preheater 93 for heating the intermediate medium circulating in the first intermediate medium circuit Ba. The waste heat from the refrigeration machine 6 is fed to the first intermediate medium preheater 93, in which at least a portion of the waste heat can be coupled into the first intermediate medium circuit Ba. At least a portion of the waste heat from the refrigeration machine 6 can thus be used for recycling by preheating the first intermediate medium flow Ba therewith before it is fed to the first cooling device 21.

[0411] Fig. 31a shows a schematic representation of a method according to the invention, preferably for implementation in an arrangement according to Fig. 31.

[0412] For the illustration of the method according to the invention in Fig. 31a, reference is made to the above description in its entirety with reference to Fig. 26a, unless otherwise indicated. The method steps that differ from Fig. 26a correspond to the method steps shown in Fig. 30a with respect to the first intermediate center circle Ba. Reference is made to the above description.

[0413] A process gas stream

[0414] B Intermediate center circle

[0415] Ba first intermediate center circle

[0416] Bb second intermediate center circle

[0417] B1 first intermediate line

[0418] B2 second intermediate line

[0419] B3 third intermediate line

[0420] C Work equipment circuit

[0421] C1 first work equipment line

[0422] C2 second working fluid line

[0423] C3 third work equipment line

[0424] D Cooling water flow

[0425] E Refrigerant flow

[0426] F Heat flow from the chiller

[0427] 1 electrode coating system

[0428] 1 a Electrode coating process

[0429] 2 Process gas condenser

[0430] 3 fans

[0431] 5 Heat engine

[0432] 5i Inlet of the heat engine

[0433] 5ii Outlet of the heat engine

[0434] 6 Refrigeration machine

[0435] 7 Working fluid pump

[0436] 8 air heat exchangers

[0437] 9 working fluid evaporator

[0438] 9i Intermediate medium inlet of the working medium evaporator

[0439] 9ii Intermediate fluid outlet of the working fluid evaporator 9iii Working fluid inlet of the working fluid evaporator

[0440] 9iv Working fluid outlet of the working fluid evaporator of the first cooling device

[0441] 21 i Working fluid inlet of the process gas condenser

[0442] 21 ii Working fluid outlet of the process gas condenser

[0443] 21 iii Intermediate inlet of the process gas condenser

[0444] 21 iv Intermediate outlet of the process gas condenser second cooling device third cooling device

[0445] 24 Process gas heating device

[0446] 24i Working fluid inlet of the process gas heating device

[0447] 24ii Working fluid outlet of the process gas heating device

[0448] 24iii Intermediate inlet of the process gas heating device

[0449] 24iv Intermediate outlet of the process gas heating device

[0450] 25 Process gas inlet

[0451] Process gas outlet

[0452] generator

[0453] power grid

[0454] 63 coolant heat exchangers

[0455] Intermediate preheater

[0456] 66 Work its middle I- Pre rhe izer

[0457] Intermediate heat exchanger

[0458] 69 Working fluid pre-cooler

[0459] 68iii Working fluid inlet of the intermediate heat exchanger

[0460] 68iv Working fluid outlet of the intermediate heat exchanger 68

[0461] Intermediate pump

[0462] 81 working fluid cooler

[0463] Air cooler 83 second intermediate heat exchanger

[0464] 83i Working fluid inlet of the second intermediate heat exchanger

[0465] 83Ü Working fluid outlet of the second intermediate heat exchanger

[0466] 83iii Intermediate heat exchanger inlet of the second intermediate heat exchanger

[0467] 83iv Intermediate outlet of the second intermediate heat exchanger

[0468] 92 second coolant heat exchanger

[0469] 93 first intermediate preheater

[0470] 100 - 130 arrangements for converting energy from an industrial process

[0471] Procedural steps

[0472] S1 Electrode coating process

[0473] S2 Condensation step

[0474] S4 Cooling water is fed to a second cooling stage.

[0475] S5 Conversion of thermal energy into mechanical energy

[0476] S6 The refrigerant flow is cooled

[0477] S8 Heat energy is extracted from the working medium and dissipated into the environment

[0478] S9a Heat energy is extracted from the intermediate circuit B to evaporate the working fluid I.

[0479] S9b Thermal energy is coupled into the working fluid circuit C to evaporate the working fluid.

[0480] S9c Heat energy is extracted from the first intermediate circuit Ba to evaporate the working fluid Is.

[0481] S11 Cooling water is led into an environment

[0482] S21a Thermal energy is extracted from the process gas stream A in a first cooling stage S21a.

[0483] S21 b At least part of the thermal energy extracted from the process gas stream A is directly coupled into the working fluid circuit C. The working fluid in the working fluid circuit C is heated and evaporated.

[0484] S21c At least part of the thermal energy extracted from the process gas stream A is directly coupled into the intermediate circuit B. S21d At least part of the thermal energy extracted from the process gas stream A

[0485] Thermal energy is coupled directly to an intermediate medium flowing in the first intermediate medium circuit Ba.

[0486] S22a The process water is cooled in a second cooling stage. Thermal energy is extracted from the process water stream A.

[0487] S22b Thermal energy is coupled into the cooling water flow D.

[0488] S23a The process gas is cooled in a third cooling stage. Thermal energy is extracted from process gas stream A.

[0489] S23b Heat energy is coupled into the refrigerant flow E.

[0490] S24a The process gas is heated. Thermal energy is transferred into the process gas stream

[0491] A coupled.

[0492] S24b The working fluid is cooled and at least part of the

[0493] The thermal energy contained in the working fluid is extracted. The working fluid is condensed during the cooling process.

[0494] S24c The working fluid is cooled and at least part of the

[0495] The thermal energy contained in the working medium is extracted.

[0496] S24d Thermal energy is used to heat the process gas stream A from the

[0497] Intermediate center circuit B decoupled.

[0498] S24e At least part of the extracted gas from the process gas stream A

[0499] Heat energy is coupled directly to an intermediate medium flowing in the second intermediate medium circuit Bb.

[0500] S51 Conversion of mechanical energy into electrical energy

[0501] S53 Dissipation of electrical energy from the arrangement

[0502] S63a Heat energy is coupled into the refrigerant flow E.

[0503] S63b The working fluid is cooled and condensed, whereby heat energy is extracted from the working fluid in the working fluid circuit C.

[0504] S63c Thermal energy is coupled into the cooling water flow D.

[0505] S63e The intermediate medium is cooled, whereby heat energy is extracted from the

[0506] The intermediate means located in the intermediate circuit B are decoupled.

[0507] S64 Heat energy is transferred as refrigeration machine heat flow F into the

[0508] Intermediate circuit B. S66 Heat energy is fed into the working fluid circuit as a refrigeration machine heat flow F

[0509] C coupled.

[0510] S68a Heat energy is transferred to the heat exchanger 68 using the intermediate heat exchanger

[0511] Coupled between medium.

[0512] S68b Heat energy is extracted from the intermediate heat exchanger 68

[0513] Work equipment decoupled.

[0514] S69a Heat energy is transferred to the working fluid pre-cooler 69

[0515] Coupled between medium.

[0516] S69b Heat energy is extracted from the working fluid pre-cooler 69

[0517] Work equipment decoupled.

[0518] S81 Cooling of the working fluid

[0519] S83a Heat energy is transferred to the second intermediate circuit Bb

[0520] Transfer intermediate funds.

[0521] S83b The work equipment is used in particular with the help of the second

[0522] Intermediate medium heat exchanger 83 is cooled and condensed, whereby heat energy is extracted from the working medium in the working medium circuit C.

[0523] S92a At least part of the emissions from the second intermediate circle Bb

[0524] Heat energy is coupled into the refrigerant flow E.

[0525] S92c At least part of the particles originating from the second intermediate circle Bb

[0526] Thermal energy is coupled into the cooling water flow D.

[0527] S92e The intermediate medium is cooled, whereby heat energy is extracted from the second

[0528] The intermediate means located in the intermediate center circuit Bb are decoupled.

[0529] S93 Heat energy is transferred as refrigeration machine heat flow F in the first

[0530] Coupled between center circle Ba.

Claims

CLAIMS 1 . Arrangement (100-130) for converting energy from a process gas stream (A) originating from an industrial plant (1), comprising: a process gas cooling device, in particular a process gas condenser (2), with which process gas cooling device or which process gas condenser (2) at least a portion of the process gas stream (A) can be cooled or condensed, wherein thermal energy can be extracted from the process gas stream (A); a working medium circuit (C) for transporting at least a portion of the thermal energy extracted from the process gas stream (A), which can be injected into a working medium; a heat engine (5) arranged in the working medium circuit (C), with which at least a portion of the thermal energy injected into the working medium can be converted into mechanical energy.

2. Arrangement (100-130) according to claim 1 with a working medium condenser arranged in the working medium circuit (C) downstream of the heat engine, by means of which the working medium can be condensed, wherein heat energy can be extracted from the working medium.

3. Arrangement (100-130) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein a process gas heating device (24) for heating at least a portion of the process gas stream (A) is arranged downstream of the process gas cooling device, in particular the process gas condenser (2), by means of which process gas heating device (24) thermal energy can be coupled into the process gas stream (A).

4. Arrangement (100-130) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the working fluid circuit (C) comprises the following: a first working fluid line (C1) to the heat engine (A), by means of which the working fluid can be fed to an inlet of the heat engine; a second working fluid line (C2), by means of which the working fluid can be discharged from an outlet of the heat engine (5); a third working fluid line (C3), by means of which the working fluid can be fed to a working fluid inlet (9iii, 21i) of a working fluid heating device (9, 21, 66), in particular for evaporating working fluid.

5. Arrangement (100-130) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a working medium evaporator (9) for evaporating working medium, wherein heat energy can be transferred from an intermediate medium to the working medium by means of the working medium evaporator (9); at least one intermediate medium circuit (B, Ba, Bb) comprising: a first intermediate medium line (B1) to the working medium evaporator (9), by means of which first intermediate medium line (B1) an intermediate medium can be fed to an intermediate medium inlet (9ii) of the working medium evaporator (9) for supplying intermediate medium, wherein the thermal energy extracted from the process gas stream (A) can be transported to the working medium evaporator (9) with the aid of the intermediate medium, and / or a second intermediate medium line (B2) to the process gas heating device (24), by means of which second intermediate medium line (B2) an intermediate medium can be fed to an intermediate medium inlet (24iii) of the process gas heating device (24) for supplying intermediate medium, wherein at least part of the thermal energy from the intermediate medium can be transferred to the process gas stream (A) via the process gas heating device (24).

6. Arrangement (100-130) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the process gas cooling device, in particular the process gas condenser (2) has at least two cooling devices (21, 22, 23) arranged one behind the other for cooling at least a portion of the process gas flow, which cooling devices are each intended for a cooling stage, wherein a front cooling device (21) is intended to transfer at least a portion of the thermal energy from the process gas flow to the working medium for expansion in the heat engine and in the process to cool at least a portion of the process gas flow;a rear cooling device (22, 23) arranged downstream of the front cooling device (21) is intended to transfer at least part of the thermal energy from the process gas flow (A) to a coolant flow (D, E) separate from the working medium and in the process to cool, in particular to condense, at least part of the process gas flow (A), wherein the coolant flow (D, E) is further intended to absorb thermal energy at a point (63, 92) in an intermediate circuit (B, Ba, Bb) and / or in the working medium circuit (C); 7. Arrangement (100-130) according to claim 6 with a refrigeration machine (6) for cooling the coolant flow (D, E), wherein at least a part of the thermal energy, in particular which is coupled from the coolant flow (D, E) into the refrigeration machine (6), can be decoupled from the refrigeration machine (6) for coupling into the process gas flow (A) and / or into an intermediate circuit (B, Ba, Bb) and / or into the working medium circuit (C).

8. Arrangement (100-130) according to claim 6 or 7, wherein the process gas cooling device, in particular the process gas condenser (2): comprises three cooling devices (21, 22, 23) arranged one behind the other for cooling at least a part of the process gas flow (A), wherein o the first cooling device (21) can be flowed through by an intermediate medium located in an intermediate medium circuit (B), wherein the thermal energy originating from at least a portion of the process gas stream (A) can be transferred to the intermediate medium for recoupling into the process gas stream (A), o the second cooling device (22) can be flowed through by a first coolant, in particular a cooling water (D), wherein thermal energy from the process gas stream (A) can be transferred to the first coolant, o the third cooling device (23) can be flowed through by a second cooled coolant, in particular a refrigerant (E) which is cooled by means of a refrigeration machine (6), wherein thermal energy from the process gas stream (A) can be transferred to the second coolant, in which arrangement (100-130) the intermediate medium located in an intermediate medium circuit (B, Ba) can be flowed through a working medium evaporator (9) for evaporating the working medium,wherein at least part of the thermal energy contained in the working medium can be converted into electrical energy via the heat engine (5) and the generator (51), a process gas heating device (24) arranged downstream of the process gas cooling device, in particular the process gas condenser (2), can be flowed through by the intermediate medium located in an intermediate medium circuit (B, Bb), wherein thermal energy can be coupled into the process gas stream (A).

9. Arrangement (100-130) according to one of the preceding claims with a generator (51) which can be coupled or is coupled to the heat engine (5) for generating electrical energy.

10. Method for converting energy from a process gas stream (A) which originates from an industrial process (S1), in which method at least a part of the process gas stream (A) is exposed to or subjected to a cooling step, in particular a condensation step (S2), wherein at least a part of the thermal energy from the process gas stream (A) is transferred to a working medium for conversion in a heat engine (5) which is arranged in a working medium circuit (C).

11. Method according to claim 10, in which method the working medium is condensed downstream of the conversion in the heat engine (5), whereby heat energy is extracted from the working medium.

12. Method according to claim 10 or at which Thermal energy from the working medium is transferred to the process gas during a heating process of the process gas stream (A).

13. Method according to one of claims 10 to 1 with at least one intermediate medium circuit (B, Ba, Bb) which can be coupled to the process gas flow (A) and / or to the working medium circuit (C) in a heat-conducting or heat-transferring manner, in which the following method steps are carried out: a. when cooling the process gas flow (A), heat energy is transferred directly to an intermediate medium located in the intermediate medium circuit (B, Ba, Bb), flowing or circulating; b. at least part of the heat energy transferred from the process gas to the intermediate medium is transferred directly to the working medium located in the working medium circuit (C) upstream of the conversion in the heat engine (5), whereby the working medium is evaporated; c. the evaporated working medium is fed to the heat engine (5).

14. Method according to claim, in which the following process steps are carried out: a. during cooling of the process gas stream (A), thermal energy is transferred directly to a working medium, whereby the working medium is evaporated; b. the evaporated working medium is fed to the heat engine (5); c. during heating of the process gas stream (A), thermal energy is transferred directly to the process gas, whereby the working medium is condensed in the working medium circuit (C) downstream of the heat engine (5) in the course of the heat transfer to the process gas (A).

15. Method according to one of claims 10 to 1 wherein the cooling step, in particular the condensation step (S2) of the process gas stream (A) comprises at least two cooling stages (S21a, S22a, S23a) taking place one after the other, in which method the following method steps are carried out: a. Thermal energy from the process gas stream (A) is transferred to a working medium in a front cooling stage (S21a); ​​b. In a rear cooling stage (S22a, S23a) arranged downstream of the front cooling stage (S21a), thermal energy from the process gas stream (A) is transferred to a coolant located in a coolant stream (D, E); c. Thermal energy from the working medium is transferred to the coolant located in a coolant stream (D, E) at a point in the working medium circuit (C) downstream of the conversion in the heat engine (5).

16. The method according to claim 15, wherein the following method steps are carried out: a. a coolant is cooled in a coolant stream (D, E) by means of a refrigeration machine (6), wherein thermal energy is extracted from the coolant into the refrigeration machine (6); b. the coolant is fed to the rear cooling stage (S22a, S23a) of the process gas stream (A); c. downstream of the rear cooling stage (S22a, S23a) of the process gas stream (A), thermal energy from the working fluid is absorbed by the coolant in the coolant stream (D, E), whereby the working fluid in the working fluid circuit (C) is cooled and condensed, and / or d. in the working fluid circuit (C), the thermal energy previously extracted into the refrigeration machine (6) is transferred to an intermediate medium or to the working fluid for coupling into the process gas stream (A) and / or for coupling into the working fluid circuit (C).

17. Use of the arrangement (100-130) according to one of claims 1 to 9 or of the method according to one of claims 10 to 16 for converting energy from a process gas stream (A), in particular from a circulating or recirculating air of a dryer for treating process gas of a dryer, in particular from the process gas of a production plant (1) for producing electrodes of a battery and / or a device for separating or recovering at least one solvent from the process gas of a production plant (1).

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