Cogeneration Supporting the Energy Transition in the Italian Ceramic Tile Industry

Ceramic tile production is an industrial process where energy efficiency management crucial, given the high amount of (electrical and thermal) required by cycle. This study presents preliminary results a research project aimed at defining benefits using combined heat power (CHP) systems in ceramic sector. Data collected from ten CHP installations allowed us to outline average characteristics prime movers, quantify contribution thermal supporting dryer process. The electric size installed units resulted being between 3.4 MW 4.9 MW, with value 4 MW. revealed that when goal maximize generation electricity for self-consumption, internal combustion engines are preferred choice due higher conversion efficiency. In contrast, gas turbines minimize consumption natural input spray dryer. Indeed, fraction demand (between 600–950 kcal/kgH2O), covered discharged heat, strictly dependent on type mover installed: lower values, range 30–45%, characteristic engines, whereas use can contribute up 77% process’s total consumption.