Bottoming cycles for electric energy generation: Parametric investigation of available and innovative solutions for the exploitation of low and medium temperature heat sources

摘要: Abstract Many industrial processes and conventional fossil fuel energy production systems used in small-medium industries, such as internal combustion engines gas turbines, provide low or medium temperature (i.e., 200–500 °C) heat fluxes a by-product, which are typically wasted the environment. The possibility of exploiting this heat, converting it into electric by means different systems, is investigated article, extending usual range operation existing technologies introducing novel concepts. In particular, among small size bottoming cycle technologies, identified solutions could allow to improve saving performance an plant generating certain amount are: Organic Rankine Cycle, Stirling engine Inverted Brayton Cycle; last original thermodynamic concept included performed comparative analysis. Moreover, paper provides parametric investigation systems; for effects source characteristics design parameters on achievable efficiency specific power shown. Furthermore, comparison with other recovery performed, order assess market potential. analysis shows that highest values, more than 20% reference input content, obtained while not negligible values (up 10%) if available higher 400 °C.