Journal of Fundamentals of Renewable Energy and Applications
Open Access

Abstract

Estimation of Maximum Available Heat Using Different Temperature Driving Forces by a Mathematical Surface Technique

Anita Kovac Kralj

A lot of re-usable thermal energy within industrial processes is emitted into the environment every year in the world as energy waste. The aim of this paper was to study the estimating of maximal available heat flow rate using different temperature driving forces by a mathematical surface technique. This technique is based on the usage of pinch analysis principles. The maximal available heat flow rate with different temperature driving forces can be calculated by using a trapezoid surface area within a grand composite curve. This technique can be applied by upgrading large quantities of available heat for steam or electricity generation within industrial processes. The research idea, which is presented using a mathematical surface technique, is founded on increasing the available heat flow rate with different temperature driving forces by using the excess and available heat flow rates regarding waste streams. This technique was tested on an existing formaldehyde process that allows for efficient and additional steam production of 1.2% with a higher outlet temperature for steam generation.