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The Rankine cycle is a thermodynamic cycle used to produce electricity in many power
stations. Superheated steam is generated in a boiler, and then expanded in a steam
turbine. The turbine drives a generator, to convert the work into electricity. The
remaining steam is then condensed and recycled as feed water to the boiler. Instead
of water, an organic fluid can be used. The major advantage is that these fluids
can be used below a temperature of 150 °C to 75 °C and do not need to be overheated.
In many cases superheating is not necessary, resulting in a higher efficiency of
the cycle. This is called an Organic Rankine Cycle.
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