Specifying DHW heat demand profiles according to operational data: enhancing quality of a DH system model

Abstract

For a DH network a meticulous analysis is required to detect a correlation of a reduction in energy demand from one year to another. The factors, which lead to such inconsistency, force an energy company (1) to modernize equipment at a consumer side and (2) to lower network operating temperatures. It results into so called fourth generation district heating (4GDH). The current research focuses on large-scale DH systems and DHW as second largest share of heat demand. The heat delays, thermal inertia and DHW consumption patterns are specified further since they might represent a natural heating accumulator. In this case, daily flow changes are considered, as they influence a DH system performance and desirable TES capacity. However, more precise profiles can be achieved by detecting the actual flow curve, and measuring the temperature difference between substation supply and return line. The dimensioning of DH systems requires comprehensive understanding of simultaneity factors. Thus, we consider substations with DHW preparation to choose the optimal size of the heat distribution network according to the new method. Case study is a DH system in Omsk, which includes residential houses (both SH and DHW coverage), and university buildings (more demand results from process heat). The operation of the system was studied for the period from the 1st of January to 31st of December 2020. We suggest a TES with a capacity of 0.04 MWh; based on the traditional temperature range, the volume is about 0.5 m3. Daily compensation time is 2-3 hours, when there is a reduction in the supply flow rate of 1500 t/h with minimum DH plant make-up. The entire DH system requires about 400 t of hot water make-up to reach the quasi-steady state conditions after the night DHW shutdown. Using the threshold of the traditional model, it hardly fits an operational value - it is better set according to novel method (0.1 MW). For similar relations between circulation and DHW flow rates, the systems with a HE result in higher circulating flows than the substations with no one. The consumer benefit from consuming DHW and heat according to more accurate profiles accounts 1.72 billion USD. It is quantified by considering avoiding using a back-up electricity source to ensure DHW service when a DH plant supplies enough heat. Moreover, if a TES is controlled according to the method detailed, it alleviates the stress for intermittent operation by compensating the transients of SH and DHW loads. 4GDH concept should be considered according to: (1) the operational data, (2) new DHW demand assessments, and (3) using TES to buffer peaks.