Design of thermal cooling systems using the cascade of energy concept

A cascade system of energy usage recognizes that energy needs occur at different potential levels and attempts to maximize the useful effects for man of energy flows. An energy cascade system can be designed most logically by starting with those uses which have outlet conditions at or near the lowest naturally accessible potentials and then inserting appropriate energy utilization devices which utilize no more of the existing potential than necessary. The cascade method is the reverse of the normal design method. Several illustrations of the cascade type of design are discussed. (auth)