Waste heat utilization

Waste heat is released in a wide range of technical processes. This applies in particular to industrial processes, but also to other technical systems such as vehicles. The waste heat can be present at various temperature levels in exhaust gases, cooling water, or other forms. Through waste heat recovery, this energy that has already been paid for can be reused, thereby increasing energy efficiency. One example is the preheating of process media or materials. This results in several advantages for the user:

• Reduction in energy demand and reduction in energy costs
• Improved long-term cost predictability and reduced dependence on external sources (security of supply)
• Reduction of environmentally relevant emissions, e.g. CO₂ and reduction of environment-related costs, e.g. for certificates
• Implementation of measures within the framework of regulatory requirements (e.g. ISO 50001).
• Increased product, location, and employer attractiveness
• Conservation of resources and increased sustainability
• Potential of optimizing the operation of the overall process

We support you with the latest research findings to optimize your application and can draw on an existing network of industrial partners. We can assist you with the following topics, among others:

• Energy analysis: Evaluation of waste heat flows and estimation of potential uses.
  
• Concept development: Thermal analysis at component and process level. Derivation and evaluation of specific utilization concepts, e.g., using numerical simulation or laboratory demonstrators. Necessary accompanying analyses of materials used.
• Development and implementation of various waste heat utilization technologies: e.g., thermal energy storage (heat storage, cold storage), thermoelectric generators, compressed gas generation from low-temperature waste heat. 
• Support in the use of innovative materials and manufacturing processes (e.g., additive manufacturing).
• Demonstration: Design and construction of demonstrator systems. Scientific support for demonstrator operation.

It would be our pleasure to explore specific opportunities for utilizing existing waste heat to enhance energy efficiency and achieve cost reductions.