The core research focus of the group is advanced heat pump and refrigeration systems, combining both numerical and experimental approaches. The research work emphasizes thermodynamic cycle modeling, component development, as well as improving performance and energy efficiency of heating and cooling system. Research focus areas also include large-scale and high-temperature heat pumps, development efficient compressor technologies (especially centrifugal machines), and the use of natural refrigerants in heat pumps and refrigeration systems. The research team has also strong expertise in waste heat recovery technologies and thermal energy conversion technologies. This includes integrated solutions where heat pumps, refrigeration systems, or power production cycles (such as Organic Rankine Cycles and supercritical fluid cycles) are implemented to utilize low- and medium-temperature waste heat streams. The research supports the reaching of emission reduction targets and to decline the usage of fossil fuels.
Group leader
Antti Uusitalo
Research areas
Research areas include heat pump and refrigeration systems, heat pump components and component development, thermodynamic modelling, natural working fluids and their characteristics, high temperature and industrial heat pumps, waste heat recovery, and energy efficiency.
Infrastructure
Experimental research facilities including test rig for transcritical carbon dioxide, centrifugal compressor test rig and high temperature small-scale organic Rankine cycle.
Publications
Relevant projects
