The Rankine cycle is a thermodynamic cycle that traditionally uses water as the working fluid in steam turbines. The Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) machines of Enertime operate on the same thermodynamic principle but use a specific organic working liquid instead of water. These machines transform thermal energy into electrical energy through a closed cycle of vaporization, relaxation, condensation, etc…
The availability of a wide panel of working fluids with various physical properties enables the cycle to function in a wide range of temperatures and capacities, for which the classic steam turbine has little or no efficiency at all. For instance, these ORC machines can use low-heat temperature sources (from 70 ° C upwards) for conversion into electricity.
Furthermore, the choice of a good working fluid significantly improves the conditions of operation of these machines. A “dry” working fluid never forms droplets during the relaxation phase; thus, the use of it limits the mechanical wear and tear of turbine blades. Similarly, the use of a high-density fluid enables these machines to perform excellently even for small power capacities.
There are now many references for ORC machines worldwide, mainly in geothermal energy.
For more information, www.cycle-organique-rankine.com
