Testing of Low-grade Heat Source Organic Rankine Cycle with Small Hot Vapor Reciprocating Engine

Investigating for recovering low-grade heat source (<100oC) by the expansion process of the small hot vapor reciprocating engine has never been studied yet. This research focuses on that one and the organic rankine cycle has been designed for the electric power generation not over 500 W. The organic substance as R-123 has conducted for working fluid of operating the system. Testing of organic rankine cycle has been achieved with the pressure of working fluid not exceeding 7 bars. The results show that the optimal maximum of electric power generation indicates at 5 bars, 270 rpm and 221 W. The tendency of testing organic rankine cycle compared between R-123 and compressed ambient air is agreeable.