Current research projects

Image In-situ investigation concerning the swelling behaviour of polymer materials under elevated pressures and temperatures
Image Low Temperature Tribology
Image Reducing the filling quantity
Image Investigation of material-dependent parameters
Image Test method for high - temperature heat pump - oils
Image Micro heat exchangers in refrigeration
Image Innovative cryogenic cooling system for the recondensation / liquefaction of technical gases up to 77 K
Image Behavior of multiphase cryogenic fluids
Image Intelligent innovative power supply for superconducting coils
Image Software for technical building equipment
Image High Capacity Pulse Tube Cooler
Image Influenced melting point of water by magnetic field
Image Reduction of primary noise sources of fans
Image Air-flow test rig for fan characteristic measurement
Image Calibration leak for the water bath leak test
Image Air-water heat pumps

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Thermal engines

210,211,212,213

Principally every refrigeration process could also work as a power cycle. In this way an energy consuming machine which provides a temperature below the ambient temperature turns into a heat engine operating between the ambient and a higher temperature. In a first step cryogenic refrigeration cycles are used reversely as heat engines, as they can handle large temperature gradients.

Thermal engines similar to the Stirling cycles

In cooperation with FOX exhaust systems, the ILK Dresden has developed a waste heat recovery system. The thermal engine dedicated for the car exhaust gas system was now presented at the International Motor Show (IAA, 2011) in Frankfurt for the first time.

With the aid of a model the functionality was demonstrated impressively.

The prototype will deliver an electrical power of 2 kW, at an exhaust gas temperature between 300 and 500°C (570 to 930°F). Currently optimization work, mainly related to generator, is underway. The figure below shows the illustration of the thermal engine in an exhaust tract.

Thermal engines related to other thermodynamic cycles

With several industrial partners heat engines are under development, which operate according to the following thermodynamic cycles:

  • closed and open Joule process
  • valve less Ericsson process

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