Abstract
Purpose: This paper deals with the generation of mechanical power and its eventual conversion into electricity from the waste heat of building HVAC systems. Especially, the thermal discharge from the condenser unit of air conditioning systems can be readily exploited to provide electricity to light LED lamps and other electric devices depending on the amount of waste heat available. Method: A heat engine driven by a thermomagnetic rotor, whose design is mainly based on the magneto-caloric effect of gadolinium (Gd), has been developed. Gd is one of the distinct materials whose Curie temperature is nearly room temperature, facilitating the use of low grade waste heat from HVAC systems. A series of tests were carried out to check the feasibility of drawing power from waste heat ranging from 40 to 65℃. Result: Results show that a maximum power of 29.4 mW can be produced for a temperature differential of 45℃, which complies with the general principles of thermodynamics.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
