Including Vaporizing A Motive Fluid Other Than Water Patents (Class 60/651)
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Patent number: 8272217Abstract: In accordance with the invention, to reduce the complexity of a cycle process, a liquid working medium flow (13) is brought up to an increased pressure and through part condensation of an expanded working medium flow (12) a first partly vaporized working medium flow (15) is created. Through further vaporization of the first partly vaporized working medium flow (15) with heat which is transferred from an external heat source (20), a second at least partly vaporized working medium flow (18) is created. In this second at least partly vaporized working medium flow (18) the vapor phase (10) is separated from the liquid phase (10), subsequently the energy of the vapor phase (10) is converted into a usable form and an expanded vapor phase (11) created. The expanded vapor phase (11) is mixed with the liquid phase (19) and the expanded working medium flow (12) is formed.Type: GrantFiled: April 13, 2005Date of Patent: September 25, 2012Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellshaftInventor: Jörg Lengert
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Publication number: 20120227404Abstract: The invention relates to a thermodynamic machine having a circulation system in which a working fluid, in particular a low-boiling working fluid, circulates alternately in a gaseous and a liquid phase, a heat exchanger, an expansion machine, a condenser, and a fluid pump. The invention also relates to a method for operating the thermodynamic machine. According to certain embodiments of the invention, in the flow line of the fluid pump, a partial pressure increasing the system pressure is applied to the liquid working fluid by adding a non-condensing auxiliary gas. Compact ORC machines can be implemented, preventing cavitation in the liquid working fluid.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 30, 2010Publication date: September 13, 2012Applicant: Orcan Energy GmbHInventors: Andreas Schuster, Andreas Sichert, Richard Aumann
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Patent number: 8245512Abstract: Use of working fluids for energy conversion in a thermal Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) process for combined generation of electrical and heat energy. The heat source used in the ORC process is in particular thermal water. The working fluids used in the ORC process are partially or perfluorinated hydrocarbons and/or partially or perfluorinated polyethers and/or partially or perfluorinated ketones. In some embodiments, the working fluid used is a combination of 1,1,1,3,3-pentafluorobutane and a fluorinated polyether having a molecular weight of 340 and a boiling point of 57° C. at 101.3 kPa, or a combination of 1,1,1,3,3-pentafluorobutane and at least one partially or perfluorinated ketone.Type: GrantFiled: March 11, 2011Date of Patent: August 21, 2012Assignee: SOLVAY FLUOR GmbHInventors: Martin Schwiegel, Felix Flohr, Christoph Meurer
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Patent number: 8237299Abstract: Power generation systems are provided that include a circular loop of conduit, a dehumidifier coupled to the conduit, a power turbine coupled to the turbine and a pump coupled to the conduit. Processes for generating energy at an industrial mine site are also provided. Water heating systems are provided that can include a dehumidifier associated with a conduit containing water, a holding tank coupled to the conduit and water heaters coupled to the holding tank. Processes of heating water are also provided.Type: GrantFiled: June 26, 2009Date of Patent: August 7, 2012Inventor: Larry Andrews
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Patent number: 8236093Abstract: A method of reducing the concentration of pollutants in a combustion flue gas having a first temperature is provided. The method includes the step of providing an organic Rankine cycle apparatus utilizing a working fluid and including at least one heat exchanger is arranged in thermal communication with the flue gas. The method further includes the step of reducing the temperature of the flue gas to a second temperature less than the first temperature by vaporizing the working fluid within the heat exchanger utilizing thermal energy derived from the flue gas. The method further includes the step of filtering the flue gas through at least one filter disposed downstream of the heat exchanger to remove pollutants from the flue gas. An associated system configured to reduce the concentration of pollutants in the combustion flue gas is also provided.Type: GrantFiled: September 16, 2009Date of Patent: August 7, 2012Assignee: BHA Group, Inc.Inventors: Robert Warren Taylor, James Easel Roberts, Charles Michael Booth
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Patent number: 8225607Abstract: The housing of a vane-type machine has a largely cylindrical space for accommodating the vane cells. A shaft is eccentrically arranged in the housing. First and second guide plates are provided on the shaft. Slides displaceable largely radially to the shaft in the direction of the inner housing wall are guided by the guide plates. A vane cell is formed with the participation of two adjacent slides of the adjacent region of the inner housing wall and the volume of the vane cells in the region of an inlet opening differs from the volume of the vane cells in the region of an outlet opening. To increase the speed of the shaft and the temperature of the medium, the slides are lubricated by pressure oil and radially and axially guided by a guideway, which is fixed with respect to the housing.Type: GrantFiled: November 29, 2005Date of Patent: July 24, 2012Inventors: Michael Stegmair, Daniel Stegmair
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Patent number: 8215114Abstract: A vapor power generating system for generating power by using heat from a source of heat. The system has a closed circuit for a working fluid, and includes a heat exchanger assembly (1) for heating the fluid under pressure with heat from the source, a separator (8) for separating the vapor phase of the heated fluid from the liquid phase thereof, an expander (14) for expanding the vapor to generate power, a condenser (17) for condensing the outlet fluid from the expander (14), a feed pump (F) for returning condensed fluid from the condenser (17) to the heater and a return path for returning the liquid phase from the separator to the heater. The liquid phase of the working fluid contains a lubricant which lubricant is soluble or miscible in the liquid phase and a bearing supply path (21) is arranged to deliver liquid phase pressurized by the feed pump (F) to at least one bearing for a rotary element of the expander.Type: GrantFiled: June 9, 2006Date of Patent: July 10, 2012Assignee: City UniversityInventors: Ian Kenneth Smith, Nikola Rudi Stosic, Ahmed Kovacevic
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Publication number: 20120151923Abstract: A method for recovering waste heat in a process for the synthesis of a chemical product, particularly ammonia, where the product is used as the working fluid of a thermodynamic cycle; the waste heat is used to increase the enthalpy content of a high-pressure liquid stream of said product (11), delivered by a synthesis section (10), thus obtaining a vapour or supercritical product stream (20), and energy is recovered by expanding said vapour or supercritical stream across at least one suitable ex-pander (13); the method is particularly suited to recover the heat content of the syngas effluent after low-temperature shift.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 17, 2010Publication date: June 21, 2012Applicant: AMMONIA CASALE SAInventors: Ermanno Filippi, Raffaele Ostuni
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Patent number: 8196405Abstract: An energy storage system is provided which includes an electrolyser a hydrogen gas storage and a power plant. The electrolyser is connected to the hydrogen gas storage and the hydrogen gas storage is connected to the power plant. Furthermore, a method for storing and supplying energy is provided which includes delivering electrical energy to an electrolyser; decomposing water into oxygen and hydrogen gas by means of the electrolyser; storing the hydrogen gas; supplying the stored hydrogen gas to a power plant; and producing electrical energy via of the power plant.Type: GrantFiled: June 23, 2009Date of Patent: June 12, 2012Assignee: Siemens AktiengesellschaftInventor: Erik Wolf
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Patent number: 8181463Abstract: The present invention provides an organic Rankine cycle power system, which comprises means for superheating vaporized organic motive fluid, an organic turbine module coupled to a generator, and a first pipe through which superheated organic motive fluid is supplied to the turbine, wherein the superheating means is a set of coils through which the vaporized organic motive fluid flows and which is in direct heat exchanger relation with waste heat gases.Type: GrantFiled: March 10, 2008Date of Patent: May 22, 2012Assignee: ORMAT Technologies Inc.Inventors: Dany Batscha, Shlomi Argas, Avinoam Leshem
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Patent number: 8176738Abstract: Methods and systems for converting waste heat from cement plant into a usable form of energy are disclosed. The methods and systems make use of two heat source streams from the cement plant, a hot air stream and a flue gas stream, to fully vaporize and superheat a working fluid stream, which is then used to convert a portion of its heat to a usable form of energy. The methods and systems utilize sequential heat exchanges stages to heat the working fluid stream, first with the hot air stream or from a first heat transfer fluid stream heated by the hot air stream and second with the flue gas stream from a second heat transfer fluid stream heated by the hot air stream.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 2008Date of Patent: May 15, 2012Assignee: Kalex LLCInventor: Alexander I. Kalina
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Publication number: 20120111004Abstract: A modular energy harvesting system. The system preferably uses an organic Rankine cycle heat engine to recover energy from relatively low-temperature heat sources. The system is both modular and scalable. The components are preferably housed within shipping containers so that they may be easily transported by sea and over land. Two or more power harvesting modules may be assembled on a single site to increase the production capacity in a scalar fashion. Each of the integrated units preferably includes an oil-less turbine and motor.Type: ApplicationFiled: November 10, 2011Publication date: May 10, 2012Inventor: Ronald David Conry
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Patent number: 8166761Abstract: A method of generating power from a heat source, said method including: compressing (10) a working fluid to increase its temperature; exchanging (11) heat between said working fluid and said heat source to superheat said working fluid; expanding (12) said superheated working fluid to drive a turbine, thereby reducing its temperature; condensing (13) said working fluid to further reduce its temperature: and returning said working fluid to said compressing step (10), the method further including the step (14) of regenerating the heat of said working fluid wherein working fluid passing between said compressing step (10) and said heat exchanging step (11) exchanges heat with working fluid passing between said expanding step (12) and said condensing step (13); wherein said steps are performed in a thermodynamic cycle (S1-S1?-S2-S3-S3?-S4) within a supercritical region (SC) above the saturation dome (A) of said working fluid, and wherein said heat regenerating step (14) is performed under isenthalpic conditions toType: GrantFiled: May 14, 2007Date of Patent: May 1, 2012Assignee: Newcastle Innovation LimitedInventors: Behdad Moghtaderi, Elham Doroodchi
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Publication number: 20120090324Abstract: A process for the use of ambient air as a heat exchange medium for vaporizing cryogenic fluids wherein the vaporized cryogenic gases are heated to a selected temperature for use or delivery to a pipeline.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 18, 2011Publication date: April 19, 2012Inventors: Martin J. Rosetta, Bill R. Minton, David A. Franklin
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Publication number: 20120085096Abstract: Heat recovery systems and methods for producing electrical and/or mechanical power from heat by-product of an overhead stream from a process column are provided. Heat recovery systems and methods include a process heat by-product stream for directly or indirectly heating a working fluid of an organic Rankine cycle. The organic Rankine cycle includes a heat exchanger, a turbine-generator system for producing electrical or mechanical power, a condenser heat exchanger, and a pump for recirculating the working fluid to the heat exchanger.Type: ApplicationFiled: October 6, 2011Publication date: April 12, 2012Applicant: Chevron U.S.A. Inc.Inventors: John David Penton, Leonore R. Rouse, Jerry M. Rovner
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Publication number: 20120086218Abstract: In a method for generating electrical energy by means of at least one low-temperature heat source (2), a VPT cyclic process (1, 10, 100) is carried out. Certain working substances are used to increase the efficiency of the VPT cyclic process.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 15, 2010Publication date: April 12, 2012Inventors: Ewa Bozek, Michael Fenz, Klaus Himmler, Ralph Joh, Jörg Lengert
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Publication number: 20120067047Abstract: Embodiments of a system for storing and providing electrical energy are disclosed. Also disclosed are embodiments of a system for purifying fluid, as well as embodiments of a system in which energy storage and fluid purification are combined. One disclosed embodiment of the system comprises a latent heat storage device, a sensible heat storage device, a vapor expander/compressor device mechanically coupled to a motor/generator device, a heat-exchanger, and a liquid pressurization and depressurization device. The devices are fluidly coupled in a closed-loop system, and a two-phase working fluid circulates therein. Embodiments of a method for operating the system to store and generate energy also are disclosed. Embodiments of a method for operating the system to purify fluid, as well as embodiments of a method for operating a combined energy storage and fluid purification system are disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: September 19, 2011Publication date: March 22, 2012Inventors: Richard B. Peterson, Robbie Ingram-Goble, Kevin J. Harada
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Patent number: 8132412Abstract: A solar thermal powered aircraft powered by heat energy from the sun. A Rankine-Brayton hybrid cycle heat engine is carried by the aircraft body for producing power for a propulsion mechanism, such as a propeller or other mechanism for enabling sustained free flight. The Rankine-Brayton engine has a thermal battery, preferably containing a lithium-hydride and lithium mixture, operably connected to it so that heat is supplied from the thermal battery to a working fluid. A solar concentrator, such as reflective parabolic trough, is movably connected to an optically transparent section of the aircraft body for receiving and concentrating solar energy from within the aircraft. Concentrated solar energy is collected by a heat collection and transport conduit, and heat transported to the thermal battery. A solar tracker includes a heliostat for determining optimal alignment with the sun, and a drive motor actuating the solar concentrator into optimal alignment with the sun based on a determination by the heliostat.Type: GrantFiled: July 30, 2009Date of Patent: March 13, 2012Assignee: Lawrence Livermore National Security, LLCInventor: Charles L. Bennett
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Patent number: 8132410Abstract: Methods and systems are disclosed for the production of hydrogen and the use of high-temperature heat sources in energy conversion. In one embodiment, a primary loop may include a nuclear reactor utilizing a molten salt or helium as a coolant. The nuclear reactor may provide heat energy to a power generation loop for production of electrical energy. For example, a supercritical carbon dioxide fluid may be heated by the nuclear reactor via the molten salt and then expanded in a turbine to drive a generator. An intermediate heat exchange loop may also be thermally coupled with the primary loop and provide heat energy to one or more hydrogen production facilities. A portion of the hydrogen produced by the hydrogen production facility may be diverted to a combustor to elevate the temperature of water being split into hydrogen and oxygen by the hydrogen production facility.Type: GrantFiled: December 17, 2007Date of Patent: March 13, 2012Assignee: Battelle Energy Alliance, LLCInventors: Chang H. Oh, Eung S. Kim, Steven R. Sherman
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Patent number: 8132413Abstract: A method of converting heat energy generated in an evaporator to mechanical energy by expanding an evaporated working fluid includes evaporating the working fluid in the evaporator and expanding the evaporated working fluid in an expansion device. The expansion is in a low-pressure expansion device which is formed as a roots blower in which the working fluid is expanded and heat energy is converted to mechanical energy.Type: GrantFiled: December 22, 2004Date of Patent: March 13, 2012Assignee: Ecoenergy Patent GmbHInventors: Erwin Oser, Michael Rannow
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Patent number: 8132411Abstract: A method and system for generating power in a vaporization of liquid natural gas process, the method comprising pressurizing a working fluid; heating and vaporizing the working fluid; expanding the working fluid in one or more expanders for the generation of power, the working fluid comprises: 2-11 mol % nitrogen, methane, a third component whose boiling point is greater than or equal to that of propane, and a fourth component comprising ethane or ethylene; cooling the working fluid such that the working fluid is at least substantially condensed; and recycling the working fluid, wherein the cooling of the working fluid occurs through indirect heat exchange with a pressurized liquefied natural gas stream in a heat exchanger, and wherein the flow rate of the working fluid at an inlet of the heat exchanger is equal to the flow rate of the working fluid at an outlet of the heat exchanger.Type: GrantFiled: November 6, 2008Date of Patent: March 13, 2012Assignee: Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.Inventors: Jianguo Xu, Donn Michael Herron
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Publication number: 20120047890Abstract: Advanced Tandem Organic Rankine Cycle (AT ORC) is described for recovering power from source of heat energy into two separated independent cycles with organic fluid of propane or mix of light hydrocarbons with similar thermal stability, namely the high temperature cycle realized in the high temperature closed loop thermally connected to the high temperature zone, and the low temperature cycle realized in the low temperature closed loop thermally connected to the low temperature zone of the source of heat energy. In the process of each cycle, organic fluid changes phases from pressurized liquid to pressurized superheated organic vapor using residual heat energy from depressurized superheated organic vapor, and heat energy from corresponding temperature zone. Separation of the source of heat energy on the high temperature zone and low temperature zone is implemented to maximize thermal and overall efficiency of recovering power in each cycle and of the overall AT ORC.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 5, 2011Publication date: March 1, 2012Inventors: Yakov Regelman, Yuriy Cherepashenets
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Patent number: 8122715Abstract: A self-contained refrigerant powered system is provided having a motor configured for receiving liquefied refrigerant and converting the liquefied refrigerant into gaseous form for powering the motor; a condenser in fluid communication with the motor for receiving gaseous refrigerant and for converting the gaseous refrigerant to liquefied form; and at least one pipe in fluid communication with the condenser and the motor for returning the liquefied refrigerant to the motor.Type: GrantFiled: December 18, 2006Date of Patent: February 28, 2012Inventors: Marios K. Rapitis, Markos Rapitis
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Patent number: 8117844Abstract: The present invention relates to systems and methods for implementing a closed loop thermodynamic cycle utilizing a multi-component working fluid to acquire heat from two or more external heat source streams in an efficient manner utilizing countercurrent exchange. The liquid multi-component working stream is heated by a first external heat source stream at a first heat exchanger and is subsequently divided into a first substream and a second substream. The first substream is heated by the first working stream at a second external heat source stream at a second heat exchanger. The second substream is heated by the second working stream at a third heat exchanger. The first substream and the second substream are then recombined into a single working stream. The recombined working stream is heated by the second external heat source stream at a fourth heat exchanger.Type: GrantFiled: July 17, 2007Date of Patent: February 21, 2012Assignee: Recurrent Engineering, LLCInventors: Mark D. Mirolli, Lawrence Rhodes, Yakov Lerner, Richard I. Pelletier
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Publication number: 20120031096Abstract: Methods are described for generating electrical power from low grade heat sources from refining and petrochemical processes, including overhead vapors from vapor-liquid contacting apparatuses such as distillation columns, absorbers, strippers, quenching towers, scrubbers, etc. In many cases, these overhead vapors exit the apparatuses at a temperature from about 90° C. (194° F.) to about 175° C. (347° F.). Rather than rejecting the low temperature heat contained in these vapors to cooling air and/or cooling water, the vapors may instead be used to evaporate an organic working fluid. The vapors of the working fluid may then be sent to a turbine to drive a generator or other load.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 9, 2010Publication date: February 9, 2012Applicant: UOP LLCInventors: Saadet ULAS ACIKGOZ, Richard K. HOEHN, Xin X. ZHU
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Patent number: 8109096Abstract: Method for production of mixed vapors at low temperatures. The thermal energy stored in the mixed vapors is intended to be converted to mechanical energy in a thermal power machine, in order to operate an electrical generator.Type: GrantFiled: October 26, 2007Date of Patent: February 7, 2012Assignee: LESA Maschinen GmbHInventor: Bernhard Schaeffer
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Publication number: 20120023940Abstract: An air-cooled condenser system for an Organic Rankin Cycle power plant includes a support structure formed of a plurality of truss members that are coupled together in a spaced apart orientation to horizontally support a plurality of side-by-side condenser bundles. A plurality of fans are likewise supported by the truss members and are disposed above the condenser bundles to draw air across the condenser bundles. Each fan extends over at least two condenser bundles and preferably at least three bundles. An air plenum is provided to establish a minimum separation between each fan and its corresponding condenser bundles so as to fluidly couple each fan to at least two condenser bundles, while at the same time decoupling the air inlet and air exit for the system, thereby minimizing air recirculation.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 29, 2011Publication date: February 2, 2012Applicant: TAS Energy, Inc.Inventors: Kevin Kitz, Thomas L. Pierson, Stanleigh Cross, Ian Spanswick
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Patent number: 8099958Abstract: A process for driving a prime mover, said process comprising a) positioning a selective membrane between a liquid and a solution having a higher osmotic potential than the liquid, such that the solution becomes pressurized by the influx of liquid across the membrane, b) using the pressure generated in the solution to drive a prime mover, c) recovering the solution, d) separating at least some of the solvent from the solution to form a residual product, and e) recycling the separated solvent and/or the residual product of step d) to step a).Type: GrantFiled: September 29, 2008Date of Patent: January 24, 2012Assignee: Surrey Aquatechnology LimitedInventors: Abdulsalam Al-Mayahi, Adel Sharif
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Publication number: 20120006024Abstract: A multi-component apparatus characterized as performing a two-phase thermodynamic cycle, for conversion of heat energy to useful power comprises: fluid means consisting to two or more chemical components to absorb heat energy, the fluid means providing an increasing temperature and increasing fraction of gas phase as increasing amounts of heat are absorbed, expander means operating to convert the enthalpy in a received mixture of gas and liquid, formed in said fluid means, as a result of the said heat energy absorbed by the fluid means, to mechanical, shaft power, heat exchanger means operating to transfer the heat energy to be absorbed by the fluid means, condenser means operating to reject the unconverted enthalpy, by the expander means, in the fluid means, thereby condensing any gas to convert the fluid means to liquid, and pump means operating to pressurize liquid fluid means leaving the condenser means, in order to return the fluid means to the heat exchanger means, closing the thermodynamic cycle.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 9, 2010Publication date: January 12, 2012Inventors: Lance G. Hays, Phillip R. Welch
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Patent number: 8091360Abstract: The invention relates to a drive system for motor vehicles comprising a waste heat-producing internal combustion engine and a circuit for draining off at least partially said waste heat with a working fluid which is relievable in an expansion machine, wherein said working fluid comprises several components, wherein at least one component is transferable into a gas phase by absorbing heat of the internal combustion engine and/or another source inside the drive system which also comprises means for separating the liquid fraction from the working fluid prior to the expansion machine pressure removal. The internal combustion engine can be cooled by a first cooling circuit. A second cooling circuit can be used in such a way that the first cooling circuit is cooled thereby.Type: GrantFiled: July 31, 2006Date of Patent: January 10, 2012Assignee: Amovis GmbHInventor: Michael Hoetger
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Publication number: 20120001436Abstract: An electric power generating system is provided that uses a wind turbine to generate waste-heat that is utilized in an organic Rankine Cycle drive that converts heat energy into rotation of a generator rotor for generating electricity. A hydrodynamic retarder may be provided that dissipates heat into a hot fluid by directing the flow of the fluid through the hydrodynamic retarder in a manner that resists rotation of blades of the wind turbine. The hot fluid circulating in the hydrodynamic retarder is a thermal heat source for vapor regeneration of organic heat exchange fluid mixture(s) used in the Rankine cycle, expansion of the organic heat exchange fluid being converted into rotation of the generator rotor.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 20, 2010Publication date: January 5, 2012Applicant: TWIN DISC, INC.Inventors: Samuel M. Sami, Edwin E. Wilson, Dean J. Bratel, John H. Batten
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Publication number: 20110314816Abstract: A system and method for cogeneration of electricity and useful heat utilizing non-fractionalized biomass as a fuel whose combustion in thermal proximity to a heat transfer medium, preferably water, is used to drive an organic Rankine Cycle which generates mechanical power for driving an electrical generator, and from which useful heat is captured and may be used for any of a myriad of purposes.Type: ApplicationFiled: June 28, 2011Publication date: December 29, 2011Inventor: Marvin Duane Julian
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Publication number: 20110289922Abstract: An apparatus includes an electric generator having a stator and a rotor. A first turbine wheel is coupled to a first end of the rotor to rotate at the same speed as the rotor. A second turbine wheel is coupled to a second end of the rotor opposite the first end, and configured to rotate at the same speed as the rotor. The first and second turbine wheels may rotate in response to expansion of a working fluid flowing from an inlet side to an outlet side of the turbine wheels.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 28, 2010Publication date: December 1, 2011Applicant: Calnetix, Inc.Inventors: Scott R. Myers, David J. Huber
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Patent number: 8065879Abstract: A process for the integration of a cryogenic air separation plant and an oxy-combustion power plant is presented. This process includes producing a pressurized nitrogen stream and a pressurized oxygen stream, burning a fuel stream thereby generating a steam stream from a boiler feed water stream, wherein the stream is used for work expansion within the oxy-combustion power plant. This process also includes heating the pressurized nitrogen stream and the pressurized oxygen stream with a compressed air stream, thereby forming a heated pressurized nitrogen stream and a heated pressurized oxygen stream. This process also includes heating the heated pressurized nitrogen stream to form a hot pressurized nitrogen stream, work expanding the hot pressurized nitrogen stream to a lower pressure thereby forming a hot exhaust nitrogen stream and recovering energy, and heating the boiler feed water stream by indirect heat exchange with the hot exhaust nitrogen stream.Type: GrantFiled: July 11, 2008Date of Patent: November 29, 2011Assignee: L'Air Liquide Societe Anonyme pour l'Etude et l'Exploitation des Procedes Georges ClaudeInventors: Jean-Renaud Brugerolle, Bao Ha
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Publication number: 20110283702Abstract: A turbine wheel is rotatable in response to expansion of a working fluid flowing from near an inlet side towards an outlet side of the turbine wheel. The turbine wheel may receive the working fluid radially into the inlet side of the turbine wheel and output the working fluid axially from its outlet side. A generator has a stator and a rotor. The rotor may be coupled to the turbine wheel and may rotate at the same speed as the turbine wheel when the turbine wheel rotates. In certain instances, the generator is adjacent the inlet side of the turbine wheel.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 19, 2010Publication date: November 24, 2011Applicant: Calnetix, Inc.Inventors: David J. Huber, Scott R. Myers
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Publication number: 20110271676Abstract: A method of converting thermal energy into another energy form using a thermodynamic cycle is disclosed, the method including the steps of: pressurizing a working fluid; supplying thermal energy to heat the working fluid from a liquid or substantially liquid state to a supercritical fluid state; in a first expander, substantially isentropically expanding the working fluid to yield energy in the other energy form; separating the expanded working fluid to form a first portion of the fluid diverted to a second expander and a second portion of the working fluid diverted to bypass the second expander; in the second expander, substantially isentropically expanding the first portion of the working fluid to yield energy in the other energy form; condensing the expanded first portion of the working fluid to a liquid or substantially liquid state; and recombining the first and second portions of the working fluid to be recirculated in the cycle.Type: ApplicationFiled: May 4, 2010Publication date: November 10, 2011Inventors: Nalin Walpita, John G. Brisson
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Publication number: 20110265476Abstract: The invention relates to an operating fluid for a steam cycle process apparatus comprising a steam generator, an expander, a condenser and a reservoir for the operating fluid, comprising a working medium that evaporates by supplying heat in the steam generator, performs mechanical work in the vapour phase by expanding in the expander and condenses in the condenser and an ionic liquid which forms a mixture with the working medium, wherein the melting point of the mixture lies below ?5° C.Type: ApplicationFiled: August 13, 2009Publication date: November 3, 2011Inventors: Jurgen Berger, Markus Dittes, Christian Bausch, Dirk Gerhard, Aurelie Alemany
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Patent number: 8046999Abstract: In a dual-source organic Rankine cycle (DORC), the condensed and slightly sub-cooled working fluid at near ambient temperature (˜300 K) and at low-side pressure (0.1 to 0.7 MPa) is (1) pumped to high-side pressure (0.5-5 MPa), (2) pre-heated in a low-temperature (LT) recuperator, (3) boiled using a low-grade heat source, (4) super-heated in a high-temperature (HT) recuperator to a temperature close to the expander turbine exhaust temperature using this exhaust vapor enthalpy, (5) further super-heated to the turbine inlet temperature (TIT) using a mid-grade heat source, (6) expanded through a turbine expander to the low-side pressure, (7) cooled through the HT recuperator, (8) cooled through the LT recuperator, (9) mostly liquefied and slightly subcooled in a condenser, and (10) the condensed portion is returned to the pump to repeat this cycle.Type: GrantFiled: November 25, 2007Date of Patent: November 1, 2011Assignee: Doty Scientific, Inc.Inventor: F David Doty
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Publication number: 20110259010Abstract: The present invention provides a waste heat recovery system, comprising a closed fluid circuit through which an organic motive fluid flows, heat exchanger means for transferring heat from waste heat gases to the motive fluid, means for flashing the motive fluid which exits the heat exchanger means into a high pressure flashed vapor portion, means for flashing liquid non-flashed motive fluid producing a low pressure flashed vapor portion, a high pressure turbine module which receives said high pressure flashed vapor portion to produce power, and a low pressure turbine module which receives a combined flow of motive fluid vapor comprising the low pressure flashed vapor portion and discharge vapor from the high pressure turbine module whereby additional power is produced.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 22, 2010Publication date: October 27, 2011Applicant: Ormat Technologies Inc.Inventors: Lucien Y. Bronicki, Yoram Bronicki
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Publication number: 20110253126Abstract: Net zero energy building systems are disclosed. In some embodiments, the systems include the following: roofing panels positioned on a roof of a building, the roofing panels being made of an array of horizontal elliptic glass vacuum tube solar collectors attached upon a reinforced light weight concrete panel; electricity generators; an insulated fluid storage tank; and a fluid circulation sub-system joined with the panels, generators, and tank.Type: ApplicationFiled: April 15, 2011Publication date: October 20, 2011Inventors: Huiming Yin, C. Julian Chen
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Publication number: 20110185734Abstract: Embodiments of an ORC system can be configured to reduce ingress of contaminants from the ambient environment. In one embodiment, the ORC system can comprise a pressure equilibrating unit that comprises a variable volume device for holding a working fluid. The variable volume device can be fluidly coupled to a condenser so that working fluid can move amongst the condenser and the variable volume device. This movement can occur in response to changes in the pressure of the working fluid in the ORC system, and in one example the working fluid is allowed to move when the pressure deviates from atmospheric pressure.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 29, 2010Publication date: August 4, 2011Applicant: United Technologies CorporationInventors: Sitaram Ramaswamy, Sean P. Breen
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Publication number: 20110185733Abstract: Embodiments of an ORC system can be configured to reduce ingress of contaminants from the ambient environment. In one embodiment, the ORC system can comprise a pressure equilibrating unit that comprises a variable volume device for holding a working fluid. The variable volume device can be fluidly coupled to a condenser so that working fluid can move amongst the condenser and the variable volume device. This movement can occur in response to changes in the pressure of the working fluid in the ORC system, and in one example the working fluid is allowed to move when the pressure deviates from atmospheric pressure.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 29, 2010Publication date: August 4, 2011Applicant: United Technologies CorporationInventors: Sitaram Ramaswamy, Sean P. Breen
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Patent number: 7987676Abstract: A closed loop expansion system for energy recovery includes a heat exchanger for using heat from a heat source to heat a working fluid of the closed loop expansion system to a temperature below the vaporization point of the working fluid; a radial inflow expander for receiving the working fluid from the heat exchanger and for expanding and partially vaporizing the working fluid; a screw expander for receiving the working fluid from the radial inflow turbine and for further expanding and vaporizing the working fluid; and a condenser for receiving the working fluid from the screw expander and for liquefying the working fluid.Type: GrantFiled: November 20, 2008Date of Patent: August 2, 2011Assignee: General Electric CompanyInventors: Gabor Ast, Thomas Johannes Frey, Herbert Kopecek, Michael Adam Bartlett, Pierre Sebastien Huck
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Publication number: 20110173981Abstract: A system for reducing the power required to cool a combustion gas for cleaning and a method for performing the same are disclosed. The system includes an expander for producing power. Energy in the form of heat is transferred from the combustion gas to a working fluid. The working fluid drives the expander to generate at least a portion of the power required for performing to drive a compressor in a refrigeration system. After the combustion gas transfers energy the combustion gas is cooled with the refrigeration system. In some embodiments the expander and the compressor are arranged along a common shaft.Type: ApplicationFiled: January 14, 2011Publication date: July 21, 2011Applicant: ALSTOM TECHNOLOGY LTD.Inventors: Sanjay K. Dube, David J. Muraskin
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Patent number: 7980080Abstract: FCHTMC engine defines a new device, not any makeover. Some instances of conflict, which may arise in general claims for the Stirling or all other engines, are, therefore, of no consequences. This engine improves over the power, efficiency, size, weight, complicity, and versatility of the Stirling and other engines—all known to this date. This application makes the use of the specific refrigerant, Duracool™, for propulsion, not cooling, and the use of the specific ceramic Z500. Multiple horizontal layers describe the engine inner configuration within these layers, defining the space for internal components, providing a simplicity of assembly/dis-assembly and the pipes' usage in structure. The meaning—pipes are incorporated inside of the device, excluding external piping. This style of construction defines the unimpeded access to improve manufacturing costs. This device is a single-hot cycle, multi-cylinder, and none-rotary engine without any vibratory or gyroscopic reactions.Type: GrantFiled: December 10, 2006Date of Patent: July 19, 2011Inventors: Wayne Douglas Pickette, James Robert Fisher, Gregory James Danner
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Patent number: 7980079Abstract: Power generation systems and methods are disclosed for use with medium to high temperature heat source stream, gaseous or liquid, where the systems and methods permit efficient energy extraction for medium and small scale power plants.Type: GrantFiled: October 27, 2008Date of Patent: July 19, 2011Assignee: Kalex, LLCInventor: Alexander I. Kalina
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Publication number: 20110167824Abstract: Contemplated power plants and LNG regasification facilities employ a combination of ambient air and non-ambient air as continuous heat sources to regasify LNG and to optimize power production. Most preferably, contemplated plants and methods are operable without the need for supplemental heat sources under varying temperature conditions.Type: ApplicationFiled: July 17, 2009Publication date: July 14, 2011Applicant: FLUOR TECHNOLOGIES CORPORATIONInventor: John Mak
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Patent number: 7975481Abstract: The invention relates to a steam cycle apparatus, comprising a reservoir for a liquid operating medium; an evaporator in which the operating medium is evaporator by supply of heat, with the vaporous operating medium being supplied to an expander for expansion and for performing mechanical work and subsequently being liquefied in a condenser which is in connection with a reservoir; an operating medium pump for supplying operating medium from the reservoir to a feed line to the evaporator; a feedback control unit (7) for the operating medium flow; characterized in that the operating medium pump comprises a bypass line which produces a connection between the input side of the operating medium pump and the output side of the operating medium pump, with a controlled overflow valve being arranged in the bypass line whose control element is triggered by the feedback control unit for the operating medium flow for regulating the pressure and/or volume flow of the operating medium in the feed line to the evaporator.Type: GrantFiled: June 24, 2008Date of Patent: July 12, 2011Assignee: Voith Patent GmbHInventors: Jens Grieser, Christian Bausch
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Publication number: 20110162366Abstract: Use of working fluids for energy conversion in a thermal Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) process for combined generation of electrical and heat energy. The heat source used in the ORC process is in particular thermal water. The working fluids used in the ORC process are partially or perfluorinated hydrocarbons and/or partially or perfluorinated polyethers and/or partially or perfluorinated ketones. In some embodiments, the working fluid used is a combination of 1,1,1,3,3-pentafluorobutane and a fluorinated polyether having a molecular weight of 340 and a boiling point of 57° C. at 101.3 kPa, or a combination of 1,1,1,3,3-pentafluorobutane and at least one partially or perfluorinated ketone.Type: ApplicationFiled: March 11, 2011Publication date: July 7, 2011Applicant: SOLVAY FLUOR GMBHInventors: Martin Schwiegel, Felix Flohr, Christoph Meurer
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Publication number: 20110154822Abstract: Heat engines suitable for large-scale or micro-scale fabrication supply power from a power turbine. The power turbine is driven in part by an ejector in which a working fluid is utilized as a motive flow. Fuel utilized for combustion may also be utilized as a phase-changing working fluid and as the motive flow driving the ejector. Heat exchangers particularly suitable for micro-scale implementation are also disclosed.Type: ApplicationFiled: December 29, 2010Publication date: June 30, 2011Inventors: Jonathan M. Protz, William G. Gardner, Justin W. Jaworski, Andrew P. Camacho, Hardy S. Shen, David J. Fields, Stefan Oliver Pelekies