IE-E

The prime objective of the project is to introduce into the market an innovative and cost effective heat to power conversion engine, the “Isothermal Expansion Engine (IE-E)”, with a capacity of 20 kWe, and equipped with an expander that approaches the isothermal expansion, by providing high heat fluxes during expansion. This new type of engine operates with much higher efficiency in comparison to the widely applied ORC technology, while having similar cost as a standard ORC unit. The specific objectives of the IE-E project that have been identified are provided next: - Conclude in the design and manufacturing of a fully-functional IE-E, adding a heat transfer system to heat the working medium, in order to achieve isothermal expansion. - Development of a final product with a power output 3-times higher that the first protype, to expand the target market. - Investigation and selection of the suitable working fluid, which is an eco-friendly HFO according to the “F-Gas” regulation. - Manufacture the pre-commercial version of the IE-E unit, focusing on the reliability, automated control, and low cost of this prototype, reaching higher efficiency. - Install the IE-E at the lab and conduct performance tests under relevant operating conditions. Couple the IE-E to an operating biogas power plant for operation at real environment and validation of the technology and performance. - Commercialization of the new product. All preparatory work will be finalized and sales channels in the initial target markets will be set-up.