What do you call Generation of electricity using waste heat

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Discussion Overview

The discussion revolves around the terminology used for the generation of electricity using waste heat from various processes, particularly focusing on methods that involve steam generation and driving generators. The scope includes technical definitions and applications related to energy recovery and conversion.

Discussion Character

  • Debate/contested, Technical explanation

Main Points Raised

  • One participant suggests that the process is called Waste-to-Energy (WtE), referring to a specific method of energy generation from waste materials.
  • Another participant counters that WtE pertains to garbage rather than waste heat, proposing the term "heat recovery" instead.
  • A different participant mentions that the term "Combined cycle" is applicable when waste heat is used from natural gas processes, linking to a specific technology.
  • It is noted that the combined cycle terminology may not apply universally, as waste heat can originate from various sources beyond heat engines.
  • Another suggestion is made for the term "Waste Heat to Power" (WHP) as a relevant descriptor for the process.
  • One participant proposes "co-generation" as a potential term that might fit the context of generating electricity from waste heat.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing views on the appropriate terminology for the generation of electricity from waste heat, indicating that multiple competing terms and definitions exist without a clear consensus.

Contextual Notes

There are limitations in the discussion regarding the definitions of terms and the specific contexts in which they apply, as well as the varying sources of waste heat that may influence terminology.

jim1174
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What do you call Generation of electricity using waste heat from processes to make steam and drive generators
 
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No, that's garbage, not waste heat. I would just call it heat recovery.
 
jim1174 said:
What do you call Generation of electricity using waste heat from processes to make steam and drive generators
They call it Combined cycle. For natural gas they call it a http://www.eon.com/en/business-areas/power-generation/natural-gas-and-oil/combined-cycle-gas-turbine-how-it-works.html .
 
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That's true for when the waste heat comes from another heat engine, which isn't always the case.
 
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Maybe this then, http://www.heatispower.org/waste-heat-to-power/ (WHP).
 
"co-generation" might fit
 

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