SOLINDARITY is advancing with its efforts to integrate innovative technologies to decarbonise industrial processes. The development of the high-temperature heat pump (HTHP), that will help upgrade the solar heat to industrial process levels, is being carried out collaboratively by the German Aero Space Center (DLR), BOGE KOMPRESSOREN Otto Boge GmbH & Co. KG (BOGE) and ASCORI.
The execution of the core components of the HTHP has entered its final design phase, representing a key milestone in the overall project. Design and manufacturing activities are being carried out in parallel, following and incorporating the results of the most recent simulation and performance analyses. This integrated approach enables continuous optimization of both component performance and system integration.
One of the major technical highlights is the turbo-unit, in which the compressor and turbine are integrated on a single shaft and driven by a direct-drive magnetic motor. The manufacturing of the first prototype is currently underway, and initial functional and performance testing is planned for early next year. These tests will provide critical insights into the operational behaviour and efficiency of the turbo-unit under representative operating conditions.
Simultaneously, the heat exchangers have been specifically designed as finned-tube units to meet the demanding thermal and operational requirements of the HTHP system. Preparations for their production are progressing steadily. In addition, significant effort is being devoted to the finalization of the control architecture and safety concepts. Both the prototype configuration and the heat pump control strategies are currently being refined to ensure safe, stable and reliable operation throughout the full range of expected operating conditions.
