Ofwärmespeicher

Ofwärmespeicher, often translated as waste heat storage or residual heat storage, refers to a system designed to capture and store thermal energy that would otherwise be lost or dissipated into the environment. This stored heat can then be utilized at a later time, improving energy efficiency and reducing the demand for primary energy sources. The concept is applicable across various scales, from industrial processes to residential buildings.

Industrial waste heat, generated by machinery, combustion, or chemical reactions, is a significant source of potential energy. Ofwärmespeicher systems in these contexts can involve thermal oil, molten salts, or even phase-change materials to absorb and hold large quantities of heat. This stored heat can then be used for preheating materials, generating electricity through organic Rankine cycles, or providing space heating.

In residential or commercial buildings, ofwärmespeicher can be integrated with heating systems, solar thermal collectors, or even exhaust air systems. For example, heat from hot tap water that is drained away can be captured and used to preheat incoming cold water. Similarly, heat from exhaust air can be transferred to fresh incoming air through heat exchangers. The primary goal is to recover and reuse thermal energy that would otherwise be wasted, leading to reduced energy consumption and lower operational costs. The development and implementation of ofwärmespeicher technologies are crucial for achieving greater sustainability in energy management.