Pinch and exergy based thermosolar integration in a dairy process

Solar thermal is a promising renewable energy supplying technology that is being introduced slowly in industrial activities. Integration of solar thermal energy in a complex process, in combination with other energy provision devices, must be evaluated carefully, in order to obtain its maximum capacity and performance. This study tackles the integration of the thermosolar technology in a dairy process, sited in a climatic zone where diffuse irradiation is the meaningful one, based on two well developed thermodynamic tools: pinch and exergy analysis. Both tools have been utilized in the context of a low and middle temperature for the production of hot water for the steps of the dairy process. A combined implementation of both methodologies, helped by economical estimation, provides a powerful tool that allows finding the best integration of thermosolar and, by this, taking substantial design decisions.

► Integration of solar thermal energy in an industrial process was assessed. ► Pinch and exergy analysis were used to determine the optimal energy supply configuration. ► Solar thermal energy reduces the fossil energy demand with a moderate investment.