Modine Heat Recovery Unit Debuts On NiSource Energy System
16 August 1999
Modine Heat Recovery Unit Debuts On NiSource Energy System
RACINE, Wis.--Aug. 13, 1999--Modine Manufacturing Company provided the heat recovery unit for a new, self-contained, total-energy system developed by Energy U.S.A., a subsidiary of NiSource Inc., Merrillville, Ind. (formerly NIPSCO Industries). The "micro-cogeneration energy system" promises to provide not just electricity, but also heating and cooling, for small buildings or homes. The first field installation of the new system was unveiled at a Walgreens store in Chesterton, Ind.The heat recovery unit developed by Modine's Research and Development Department for NiSource is a stainless steel, PF(R) heat exchanger capable of capturing energy from the 500-degree Fahrenheit gas micro-turbine exhaust stream. This energy can be used for building heating and cooling, interior dehumidification, or other uses. At the Chesterton field installation, the energy is used to provide cooling.
Cogeneration, or the use of excess or "waste heat" is not a new concept. Throughout the years, Modine heating and cooling products have played a role in various cogeneration projects for large utilities or power companies.
Micro-cogeneration, however, is a new concept. It is the use of a small power generating source, such as a micro-turbine, coupled with a heat recovery unit to provide electricity, heating, and cooling - the "total energy needs" - for the space. The kilowatt capacity is enough to provide self-contained energy for a home or a small building; hence, the term "micro." The micro-turbine system, developed and manufactured by Capstone Turbine Corporation in Woodland Hills, Calif., is installed on the roof of the building and uses natural gas as its fuel source.
Modine is a world leader at solving heating and cooling problems in buildings, vehicles, and off-highway and industrial equipment. Modine has annualized sales of more than $1 billion and has 8,800 employees worldwide.