We are proposing an ambitious, interdisciplinary project aimed at devising innovative thermodynamic cycles that utilize low-temperature heat sources with performances superior to state-of-the-art. We will address advancements in cycle and component design, and the use of new multi-component working fluids. Power, heat pump and cooling plants are considered, with focus on efficient power production and heat pump applications that utilize intermittent power sources efficiently. Our goal is to derive solutions that result in significant energy savings in Danish industry and marine vessel consumption. We estimate savings of 15% and a resulting reduction of CO2 emission of 8,8 mio tonnes tons annually. The innovations will not only improve the performance of existing technologies, they will also enable the utilization of low-temperature heat sources that are not used currently due to technical or economical infeasibility. Examples of possible, new applications include power production using small-scale solar and biomass, and geothermal heat sources. Moreover, high-efficient heat pumps will be developed. By providing the scientific basis needed for implementation of technologies utilizing low-temperature energy sources in Denmark, the project will contribute to the development of the future society with no consumption of fossil fuels and high shares of intermittent, renewable energy sources.
Project:
THERMCYC -- Advanced thermodynamic cycles utilising low-temperature heat sources
The project is funded by:
The Danish Council for Strategic Research in Sustainable Energy and Environment.
Duration of Project:
1. March 2014 - 28. February 2019.
Project manager:
Brian Elmegaard,
Department of Mechanical Engineering, Technical University of Denmark.
Collaboration:
The project is carried out in collaboration among the Department of Mechanical Engineering & Chemical Engineering at the Technical University of Denmark, The Danish Technological Institute, Viegand & Maagøe A/S , AP Møller Mærsk, Danfoss, Arla, Alfa Laval Sweden, Technische Universität München, Delft University of Technology, Aalborg University, Alfa Laval Aalborg and MAN Diesel & Turbo.