Wärmenutzungsanlage
A Wärmenutzungsanlage, often translated as a heat utilization system or heat recovery system, is a technological setup designed to capture and reuse waste heat generated by various industrial processes or facilities. The primary goal of such a system is to improve energy efficiency by reducing the overall energy consumption and minimizing thermal pollution. These systems typically involve heat exchangers, which transfer heat from a hot source, such as exhaust gases, cooling water, or even wastewater, to a colder medium that can be utilized elsewhere. The recovered heat can then be used for purposes like preheating combustion air, heating water for domestic or industrial use, or generating electricity through systems like organic Rankine cycles. The implementation of a Wärmenutzungsanlage can lead to significant cost savings in energy bills and contribute to a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. They are commonly found in power plants, manufacturing facilities, chemical processing plants, and large commercial buildings. The specific design and components of a Wärmenutzungsanlage are highly dependent on the nature of the heat source, the required temperature of the recovered heat, and the intended application of that heat.