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What is the ‘Green Machine’?
The Green Machine, is an Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) based heat-to-power generating system. It captures waste energy from small, distributed hot water sources such as stationary engine jacket water, biomass boilers, solar thermal and co-produced (or geothermal) fluids to generate 30-65kWe of fuel-free, emissions-free electricity. Factory assembled and tested, it is skid mounted and available as a single unit or in multiples to match the available heat. 


Will ElectraTherm’s Green Machine work on any recoverable heat source?
The Green Machine performs best with hot water flows of 120-200 GPM (7.6-12.6 l/s) at 190-240°F (88-116°C).  After generating electricity, the system’s working fluid must be condensed. Options for this include direct air-cooled radiators, a cooling tower or surface water flows from 120-200 GPM (7.6-12.6 l/s) with ideal temperatures between 40-100°F (4-38°C). 


What about hot side temperatures greater than 240°F (116°C)?
The patented twin screw expander and ElectraTherm’s ORC system specifically targets low temperature and abundant resources.  Our current upper limit for input to the machine is 240°F/116°C.  However, if there is potential to reduce the hot water source via a secondary loop, the Green Machine can be utilized.

 
What is the environmental impact of using ElectraTherm heat to power systems?
None. Units are self contained, fuel-free, 100% environmentally friendly and produce zero CO2 emissions. No EPA permitting is required. 


How much maintenance is required?
Minor items, such as annual belt inspection, filter changes, along with standard pump, generator and dry cooler maintenance add up to minimal estimated costs, approximately 1-1.5 US cent/kWh generated, or approx. $5,000 - $7,500 (USD) annually.  Water condensing may require filter changes and/or chemical treatment, often part of pre-existing cooling system management conducted by the host facility. The Green Machine employs a positive displacement power block so the working fluid carries system lubricants in suspension. No oil pump, gear box or oil to change means minimal life cycle maintenance.


How much operator time is required?
Minimal.  ElectraTherm heat-to-power generating systems are self-contained with on-board monitoring and controls, allowing either hands on or remote operation. The unit can be stopped, started and monitored at an offsite location via the remote monitoring software.


How do I know if the ElectraTherm Green Machine will work with my application?
ElectraTherm provides an initial assessment of your application and customizes a basic cost/benefit analysis. To receive an estimate of power output at your site, please fill out a Project Evaluation Form at www.electratherm.com/pef or contact us electronically. 


Who installs and supports Green Machines?
While internal staff at some facilities can install and service Green Machines, ElectraTherm’s authorized dealers work with end users to engineer, install and commission, as well as provide ongoing service support.