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Alternatives to Industrial Cogeneration: A Pinch Technology Perspective
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Date
1988-09
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Energy Systems Laboratory (http://esl.eslwin.tamu.edu)
Abstract
Pinch Technology studies across a broad
spectrum of processes confirm that existing
plants typically consume 15-40% more thermal
energy than they should. Consequently, many
cogeneration schemes have been based on thermal
requirements and characteristics that are
inconsistent with a properly designed and
integrated process. Pinch Technology studies
also frequently identify projects, based on
conventional technology, that require lower
capital outlays, achieve more rapid paybacks, and
entail less risk than those associated with
proposed cogeneration projects. Cogeneration
schemes that survive the scrutiny of Pinch
Technology are often smaller -- but invariably
more cost-effective -- than those being
contemplated or now being operated. Most
importantly, only the results of such a study
truly enable the process operator to evaluate the
relative merits of cogeneration and other options
for reducing operating costs.
Recognizing that cogeneration will, at
times, be an appropriate part of an industrial
process, utilities have an opportunity to work
with their industrial customers using Pinch
Technology to insure that the alternatives are
properly defined and well understood. Recent case
study results show that such cooperation can often
yield sounder capital investment decisions and
lower operating costs for the industrial operator
and load-building and load-retention opportunities
for the utility.
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Keywords
Cogeneration, Pinch Technology, Cogeneration Alternatives