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Nidhi Sahu*,
- Research Scholar, Department of Mechanical Branch (J.E.C.), Lingayas Vidyapeeth Nauchali, Faridabad, Haryana, India
Abstract
Industrial processes consume vast amounts of energy, often resulting in substantial heat losses to the environment. Waste-heat recovery (WHR) systems provide a viable solution to harness this otherwise lost thermal energy, improving overall energy efficiency, reducing operational costs, and contributing to sustainable industrial practices. This study investigates the design, implementation, and optimization of waste-heat recovery systems across various industrial sectors, including power generation, chemical processing, cement production, and steel manufacturing.
The research focuses on different WHR technologies, such as heat exchangers, organic Rankine cycles (ORC), thermoelectric generators, and combined heat and power (CHP) systems, evaluating their potential for converting low- to high-grade waste heat into usable thermal or electrical energy. System performance is assessed through thermodynamic analysis, energy balance calculations, and techno-economic modeling, considering parameters such as heat source temperature, flow rate, and system efficiency. Case studies demonstrate that effective WHR integration can recover up to 20–40% of wasted energy, resulting in significant reductions in fossil fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
Furthermore, the study highlights key challenges in WHR implementation, including system complexity, capital investment, and maintenance considerations. Strategies for overcoming these challenges, such as modular designs, predictive maintenance, and advanced control systems, are discussed. The findings underline the crucial role of waste-heat recovery in sustainable industrial energy management, emphasizing its potential to enhance energy efficiency, lower environmental impact, and support the transition to a low-carbon economy. This research provides a comprehensive framework for industries seeking to implement effective and economically viable waste-heat recovery solutions.
Keywords: Waste-heat recovery (WHR), Industrial energy efficiency, Sustainable energy management, Heat exchangers, Organic Rankine cycle (ORC), Thermoelectric generators
[This article belongs to Journal of Water Pollution & Purification Research ]
Nidhi Sahu*. Waste-Heat Recovery Systems for Sustainable Industrial Energy Management. Journal of Water Pollution & Purification Research. 2026; 13(01):-.
Nidhi Sahu*. Waste-Heat Recovery Systems for Sustainable Industrial Energy Management. Journal of Water Pollution & Purification Research. 2026; 13(01):-. Available from: https://journals.stmjournals.com/jowppr/article=2026/view=241331
References
Journal of Water Pollution & Purification Research
| Volume | 13 |
| Issue | 01 |
| Received | 09/03/2026 |
| Accepted | 27/04/2026 |
| Published | 29/04/2026 |
| Publication Time | 51 Days |
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