Cloud-Based Simulation of ORC Power Systems

Organic Rankine Cycles (ORC) are gaining attention recently, as industries explore efficient and environmentally friendly power sources. ORC systems, often integrated with geothermal plants, biomass, and solar power facilities, are essential for converting low-temperature heat sources into electricity. While valuable, traditional simulation of ORC processes requires specialized local software, which can complicate collaboration and accessibility. In this article, innovative simulation features are described that empower engineers when working with ORC simulation online with the help of IPSE GO. 

Organic Rankine Cycle Simulation Online

As industries explore greener and more efficient power sources, Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) systems are gaining attention. ORC systems, often integrated with geothermal plants, biomass, and solar power facilities, are essential for converting low-temperature heat sources into electricity. While valuable, traditional simulation of ORC processes requires specialized local software, which can complicate collaboration and accessibility. 

A new generation of cloud-based simulation software allows engineers, researchers, and designers to model ORC systems directly from a web browser. These cloud solutions provide easy, remote access to modeling tools without the need for local installation, streamlining the entire simulation process, from setup and configuration to running simulations and visualizing results. This shift to the cloud is particularly beneficial for collaborative energy projects, where teams can work together seamlessly, regardless of their location.

Modeling Approaches for ORC Processes

Cloud-based ORC simulation platforms enable engineers and researchers to model ORC systems through an intuitive, web-accessible interface. With a graphical flowsheet editor, users can configure ORC process flows by connecting components, adjusting parameters, and running simulations in real-time. These platforms often incorporate specialized libraries with models for ORC components, allowing for accurate off-design and part-load analyses that help engineers fine-tune ORC system performance. By moving the simulation process to the cloud, users benefit from a simplified workflow and the convenience of accessing projects from any device with a browser.

Simulating an ORC using IPSE GO Services

IPSE GO is an advanced cloud-based simulation service that brings ORC modeling to a new level of accessibility. Built on IPSEpro’s solver technology, it allows users to set up, run, and share ORC models entirely within a web browser. The modeling approach has been described in detail by Perz et al. (1995). The platform includes a comprehensive ORC model library, LTP_Lib, making it easy to simulate various scenarios and conditions. The results for modeling with the LTP_Lib and IPSEpro have been published by Aneke et al (2011) and Karellas et al. (2012).

The flowsheet editor enables users to visually organize components and immediately observe the effects of parameter changes, making the setup and simulation process intuitive and efficient. By eliminating the need for local software, this cloud-based simulation software makes ORC modeling more collaborative and accessible for global teams.

Exemplary Results for an ORC Simulation

The following screenshots illustrate typical ORC simulations as visualized in an online flowsheet editor. The flowsheet editor displays each component’s performance, enabling users to adjust inputs and see how the entire system responds in real time. This interactive, browser-based setup provides the clarity and ease of use traditionally associated with desktop applications, but with the added benefits of cloud access and collaboration:

For professionals ready to advance their ORC modeling practices, IPSE GO offers a robust, cloud-based solution that simplifies the simulation process while enhancing collaboration. With our simulation software, there’s no need for local installations or complex setup processes. Instead, teams can focus on optimizing ORC projects with real-time simulation, accessible from anywhere. 

For a more comprehensive exploration of these topics, see Perz et al. (2019), which offers an in-depth examination of using IPSE GO for simulation of ORC systems in the cloud.

Ready to transform your ORC modeling experience? Don’t miss out on the opportunity to leverage the power of cloud-based simulation - visit our website today and sign up for your free trial of IPSE GO!

References

Perz, E., Rodionova, E., Bergmann, S., Dargam, F., 2019. Cloud Based Simulation of ORC Systems. 5th International Seminar on ORC Power Systems, Sep. 9–11, Athens, Greece.

Aneke, M., Agnew, B., Underwood, C., 2011. Performance Analysis of the Chena Binary Geothermal Power Plant. Applied Thermal Engineering, Elsevier.

Karellas, S., Leontaritis, A.-D., Panousis, G., Bellos, E., Kakaras, E., 2012. Energetic and Exergetic Analysis of Waste Heat Recovery Systems in the Cement Industry. ECOS 2012, June 26–29, Perugia, Italy.

Perz, E., Riesel, U., Schinagl, H. A., 1995. A New Approach for Modelling Energy Systems. ASME Cogen Turbo Power Conference, Aug. 23–25, Vienna, Austria.