Component-Oriented Modeling of a Micro-Scale Organic Rankine Cycle System for Waste Heat Recovery Applications

Organic Rankine cycle (ORC) systems are some of the most suitable technologies to produce electricity from low-temperature waste heat. In this study, a non-regenerative, micro-scale ORC system was tested in off-design conditions using R134a as working fluid. The experimental data were then used tune semi-empirical models main components system. Eventually, component-oriented solver map electric performance at varying operating conditions. analysis highlighted non-negligible impact plunger pump on Indeed, results showed that low efficiency investigated range can lead negative net power For points, expander and isentropic efficiencies found approximate ranges 35% 55% 17% 34%, respectively. Furthermore, maximum about 200 W with 1.2%, thus also stressing importance proper selection for heat recovery applications.