What is the difference between topping and bottoming cycle CHP?

These terms are used to describe two different types of combined heat and power (CHP) systems which utilise waste heat to increase the efficiency of the power generation process.

Topping Cycle CHP

Topping cycle CHP is the process of using fuel to generate mechanical energy which is used to create electricity using a generator. The resulting waste heat is captured from this process to heat water for use as hot water or steam throughout the facility.

The topping cycle style CHP systems are the most popular due to their versatility. Inoplex cogeneration systems utilise topping cycle CHP style power generation.

Bottoming Cycle CHP

Bottoming Cycle CHP, sometimes called Waste Heat to Power (WHP), is where fuel is combusted to produce useful heat to carry out an industrial process of some sort. Some of the waste heat from this process is recovered via a heat exchanger, producing thermal energy which is used to power a turbine generator to produce electricity.

Energy intensive industries have the most to gain from bottoming cycle combined heat and power systems. These include timber processors, biomass, geothermal and waste heat from everything from hot washing water, hot ricotta wastewater to coffee roasters!

Historically a bottoming cycle CHP system requires a heat source of sufficiently high temperatures (usually over 500 °F or 260 °C) to be practical. However, modern turbine expander design and working fluids have made lower temperature systems viable.

Inoplex offer two temperature range Bottom Cycle generators.

Low Temperature Range

Harnesses heat energy between 70 C to 120 C – Electrical Output 10, 20, 40, 100 and 180 KW

Medium Temperature Range

Harness heat energy between 120 to 200 C – Electrical Output 10, 2 and 40 KW

Bottom Cycle, ORC Generator from Inoplex

The bottom Cycle, ORC generators are typically packaged in a shipping container along with the required heat exchangers and pumps to provide the client with a tidy installation.