Sweden-headed Alfa Laval AB, a global leader in heat transfer, centrifugal separation, and fluid handling has recently launched its once-through steam generator, developed specifically for use in compact, molten salt thermal energy storage applications.
Power-to-heat (PtH) systems have the potential to significantly reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from process industries. It enables the use of renewable power sources for heating purposes instead of burning fossil fuels.
When available, renewable power is used to generate heat, which is stored in molten salt and later converted into steam when needed in the production process.
Compact design with high operational reliability
Small-scale, modular power-to-heat systems that can be installed locally at plant sites are seen as particularly promising, as they require minimal CAPEX and installation work.
Alfa Laval’s new once-through steam generators are tailored to this type of system.
According to the company, the highly compact design enables system builders to fit a complete, highly efficient steam generator in a very small space and ensures reliable steam generation.
Featuring a unique, integrated water separation and recirculation system that enables stable operation, even at loads as low as 5 percent.
It also helps minimize the hold-up volume, which in turn reduces response times and enhances system flexibility.
Efficient, compact steam generation is essential for the viability of small-scale power-to-heat storage. Our once-through steam generators offer a highly compact, all-in-one solution with high performance and outstanding reliability under cyclic operating conditions. The spiral-wound design not only maximizes the heat transfer surface but also absorbs thermal expansion, thereby minimizing mechanical stress, said Gregory Derderian, Energy Storage Business Developer at Alfa Laval.
