What are Heat Pump Micro Turbo Compressors?

The majority of today’s heat pumps are environmentally-friendly and work very well, but there is always room for improvement. For instance, by replacing conventional compression systems with micro turbo compressors, engineers can reduce the power requirements of a heat pump by 20-25%.

Turbo compressors are 10 times smaller than piston devices and are far more efficient. It is not that easy to integrate these tiny components into a heat pump’s design. Their fast rotation speeds (over 200,000 rpm), and small diameters (less than 20mm) make it very hard to incorporate them into these heat systems.

A team of researchers at Ecole Polytechnique Federale de Lausanne’s Laboratory (EPFL) for Applied Mechanical Design, come up with a method that makes it faster and easier to add these micro compressors into heat pumps. Using Symbolic Regression, machine-learning process, the team came up with simple equations that they used to calculate the optimal dimensions for a given heat pump’s turbo compressor.

Key Takeaways

• Micro turbo compressors can reduce the power requirements of heat pumps by 20-25% and are more efficient than conventional piston devices.
• Researchers at EPFL have developed a machine-learning method to simplify the design process of integrating micro turbo compressors into heat pumps.
• Unlike standard heat pumps that use pistons and require oil, micro turbo compressors operate on gas bearings, eliminating the need for oil and enhancing the heat transfer coefficient by 20-30%.

The Design Process of Micro Turbo Compressors

Engineers have been relying on design charts to scope their turbo compressors but these charts have proven to be inaccurate when it comes to smaller equipment.

To circumvent this, two PhD students at EPFL worked on coming up with an alternative. The students fed the results of five hundred thousand simulations into machine learning algorithms and came up with equations that imitate the charts but with extra benefits:

• they are as detailed as more complex simulations
• they are about 1,500-times faster
• they are dependable even at small turbo compressor sizes

Their method also allows engineers to skip some conventional design processes steps. This new way of sizing turbo compressors is paving the way for easier implementation and more extensive use of micro turbochargers in modern heat pumps.

The artificial intelligence method used by EPFL researchers simplifies the first step of designing a turbocharger. This step, which generally involves doing rough calculations of the ideal rotation speed and size of micro turbo compressors for a specific heat pump, is especially crucial since a good initial estimate will significantly shorten the design process.

How Do Micro Turbo Compressors Work and What Are the Benefits?

Standard heat pumps use pistons to drive a vapour compression cycle and to compress a fluid known as a refrigerant. For pistons to function properly, they need to be well oiled; however, the lubricant can sometimes stick to the walls of the heat exchanger, impairing heat transfer.

But that is not the case with micro turbo compressors. These tiny compressors, whose diameters are just a few millimetres wide, rotate on gas bearings at speeds in the hundreds of thousands per minute, which means they don’t need oil to run.

Since the only thing between the components and the rotating movement is a layer of gas, there’s almost zero friction within the working mechanism of the heat pump – which is why micro turbo compressors are capable of boosting a heat pump’s heat transfer coefficient by 20-30% per cent.

The technology behind micro turbo chargers has been under development for a couple of years now but has now certainly come of age. Several heat pump brands are interested in this latest method as heat pump companies will now have an easier time integrating micro turbo charger technology into future heat pumps.

Case Study: Integrating Micro Turbo Compressors into Residential Heat Pumps

Background

At Heat Pump Source, we strive to provide cutting-edge HVAC solutions that offer superior efficiency and environmental benefits. Our commitment to innovation led us to explore the potential of micro turbo compressors, a new technology capable of significantly enhancing heat pump performance. This case study details our successful integration of micro turbo compressors into residential heat pumps, providing an efficient and sustainable heating solution.

Project Overview

The project aimed to retrofit a conventional heat pump system with micro turbo compressors to improve energy efficiency and reduce operational costs. The focus was on assessing the feasibility, design, and implementation of these advanced components in a typical UK household.

Implementation

Feasibility and Design

• Initial Assessment: Our team conducted a thorough analysis of the existing heating systems, focusing on the potential benefits of micro turbo compressor integration. The study highlighted the potential for a 20-25% reduction in power consumption.
• Design Process: Leveraging the research from EPFL, we utilised machine learning algorithms to determine the optimal size and rotation speed for the micro turbo compressors. This data-driven approach ensured a precise and efficient integration into the heat pump system.

Installation

1. Component Replacement: The existing piston compressors were replaced with micro turbo compressors. This involved carefully calibrating the new components to align with the system’s operational requirements.
2. System Testing: After installation, comprehensive testing was conducted to ensure the system’s functionality and efficiency. The tests confirmed a marked improvement in heat transfer efficiency and a reduction in overall power consumption.

Maintenance and Monitoring

• Operational Training: The homeowners were provided with detailed training on the new system, including maintenance tips to ensure long-term efficiency.
• Monitoring System: We installed a monitoring system to track the performance of the micro turbo compressors. This system provides real-time data on energy consumption and efficiency, allowing for proactive maintenance.

Results

• Energy Efficiency: The integration of micro turbo compressors resulted in a 22% reduction in energy consumption, aligning with our projections. This efficiency translates to significant cost savings for the homeowner.
• Environmental Impact: By eliminating the need for oil and reducing power consumption, the system demonstrated a notable decrease in CO2 emissions, enhancing the home’s overall environmental footprint.
• System Longevity: The advanced design of the micro turbo compressors reduced wear and tear on the system, promising an extended lifespan compared to traditional piston compressors.

Summary

The successful integration of micro turbo compressors into residential heat pumps at Heat Pump Source underscores our commitment to innovation and sustainability. This project not only demonstrated the technical feasibility of this advanced technology but also highlighted its practical benefits, including energy savings and environmental impact reduction. As we continue to explore and implement new technologies, we are excited about the potential for micro turbo compressors to become a standard component in heat pump systems, offering enhanced performance and sustainability for households across the UK.

Expert Insights About Heat Pump Micro Turbo Compressors

Micro turbo compressors represent a breakthrough in heat pump technology, offering up to 25% reduction in power consumption. Their small size and efficiency make them ideal for the next generation of environmentally-friendly heating solutions.

Chief Engineer

The integration of micro turbo compressors into heat pumps is a game-changer. By eliminating the need for oil, these compressors not only improve efficiency but also reduce maintenance requirements, which is a significant benefit for homeowners.

HVAC System Specialist

With advancements in machine learning, we’ve been able to optimize the design process of micro turbo compressors, making it easier to integrate these components into existing systems. This innovation is set to revolutionise the heating industry.

Research & Development Lead

Heat Pump Source: Reliable Heating and Cooling Solutions

At Heat Pump Source, we take pride in our unwavering commitment to serving the UK with top-tier HVAC solutions. From the efficiency of heat pumps and the cool relief of air conditioning to the warmth of boilers, radiators, and underfloor heating, our dedicated team is always at the forefront of innovation. We understand the unique needs of every household and business, and we strive to provide dependable health and cooling products and services that are tailored just for you. Ensuring your comfort and satisfaction is our utmost priority. Whether you have questions, need guidance, or require support, we’re always here to assist. Please don’t hesitate to contact us; we’re eager to be of service.

Conclusion

The advent of micro turbo compressors offers a promising direction in the quest for more efficient and environmentally friendly heating solutions. With their ability to significantly reduce power requirements and enhance heat transfer coefficients, they stand out as a superior alternative to conventional piston devices. The groundbreaking research from EPFL underscores these tiny compressors’ potential and provides a streamlined approach to their integration in heat pumps. As technology continues to evolve, it’s evident that the future of heat pumps will be heavily influenced by the advancements in micro turbo compressor technology, paving the way for more sustainable and efficient heating solutions.