Are renewable resources always enough alone to provide the energy we need? How can the heat in them be used the most? With the growth of energy consumption and environmental crises, the use of complementary technologies has become a priority. In the meantime, the organic Rankin cycle, or ERC, is a unique way to convert low-temperature heat into electricity. This technology brings renewable resources closer to the last level of efficiency. We’re going to look at how ERC, along with clean energy like geothermal, solar and biomass, plays a decisive role in the future of energy.
Can ERC be used alongside renewable energy?
The main question is that renewable sources such as the sun, geothermal and biomass often have limitations in temperature and energy intensity. This leaves a significant portion of the heat generated unused. What is the solution? The answer lies in the use of technologies that can restore and convert this low-temperature heat into electricity. ERC is designed for exactly this purpose. This system allows the use of low to medium temperature heat sources using specific organic fluids. Therefore, combining ERC with renewable energy is practical and leads to the maximum use of available resources.
How does the ERC align with renewable energy sources?
The organic Rankin cycle is designed on the basis of converting heat to mechanical energy and then electricity. Unlike traditional systems that require very high temperatures, ULC also provides good performance with very low temperatures. This feature makes it suitable for use alongside renewable sources that usually have low-intensity heat. The working fluid in ERC is usually organic and has a low boiling point that allows it to evaporate and generate energy at temperatures where water does not vaporize. This inherent adaptability has made ERC a desirable option for increasing the efficiency of renewable energy systems.
Introducing the best renewable energy sources for use in the organic Rankin cycle
Various renewable energy such as solar, wind, geothermal, biomass, sea waves and so on… Each has its own characteristics and potential, but according to specialized studies on the application of these resources in the organic Rankin cycle (ERC), only some of them are considered the best options for achieving high efficiency and stable performance. These choices are based on a variety of factors, including temperature of the heat source, production stability, availability, operating cost and the possibility of heat transfer to the ERC working fluid. Here are the best renewable energy sources to use in the organic Rankin cycle.
Geothermal and ERC, a great combination for clean electricity.
Geothermal or geothermal sources usually include hot water or steam deep in the Earth, the temperature of which is often between 70 and 180 degrees Celsius. These temperatures are not very suitable for classic steam turbines, but they are an excellent option for ERC. One of the most important features of geothermal resources is their sustainability. Unlike the sun or wind, geothermal energy does not change during the day and seasons and continuously generates thermal energy.
The combination of ERC with geothermal sources allows for sustainable, low-cost and very low-emission electricity generation. These systems use comforters that didn’t seem economical before. Also, the compact ERC design and the ability to be installed in confined spaces make it a good option for areas with shallow geothermal resources. In countries with geothermal potential such as Iran, this combination accounts for a significant share of clean electricity generation.
Sun in service of sustainable electricity; use of ERC in solar thermal systems
In concentrated solar power plants (CSPs), sunlight is concentrated to a point using mirrors and lenses, producing significant temperatures. This heat is usually stored in a heat tank and used indirectly to generate electricity. Although some systems achieve high temperatures, many produce only moderate heat, which is quite suitable for ERC.
ERC acts as the final converter in CSP power plants and converts the heat generated into electricity. Using this technology alongside CSP reduces the need for heavy and expensive steam equipment. Also, given that ERC can also function at low temperatures, electricity generation is possible even in the early hours of the morning and after sunset (if there is thermal storage). This feature significantly increases the overall efficiency of the system.
Biomass and ERC: a way to make the most of bio-waste
Biotomy is any type of organic material taken from biological sources such as agricultural waste, wood, animal manure, and organic waste. These sources produce heat from combustion or thermal decomposition processes, usually lower in temperature than fossil sources. However, this heat is quite suitable for use in ERC.
In biomass-based systems, the heat from combustion is transferred by a boiler to the ABC fluid. ERC continuously converts this energy into electricity, without the need for Steam and high pressure. Also, with the use of ERC in these systems, the amount of pollution decreases and the overall efficiency increases. The combination of these two technologies can play an important role in providing clean electricity to rural and agricultural areas.
Why is ERC a bridge between renewable energy and electricity generation?
Due to its thermal flexibility, low temperature performance and adaptability to various energy sources, ERC plays the role of an intelligent intermediary between thermal energy and electricity. This technology is easily installed alongside various renewable sources without the need for a complete redesign of the systems. Also, by generating electricity from previously wasted heat, the overall efficiency of energy systems increases significantly. Therefore, it can be said that ERC is a safe, economical and future bridge to the transition towards clean energy.
Arvaj clean energy company, a pioneer in the integration of ERC with new energy in Iran
Arvaj clean energy company with specialized executive experience is one of the leading companies in the implementation of ERC systems alongside renewable energy sources in Iran. The company has played an active and effective role in various projects, including geothermal power plants, thermal solar systems and biotode facilities. Arrowge’s services include technical consulting, engineering design, equipment supply, and full project execution. The group’s expertise in integrating ERC with clean energy sources has paved the way for high efficiency and sustainable electricity generation.
Increase the efficiency of your renewable resources now!
If you are looking to improve and increase the efficiency of your renewable energy projects, take the use of ERC technology seriously. Clean energy company arrowj is ready to accompany you in the implementation of sustainable projects by providing engineering solutions, custom systems and specialized support. Contact our experts for free advice, visits to executive projects or cooperation in the design and implementation of ERC systems. Don’t miss the opportunity, take a big step towards a clean and intelligent future.