Compressor for high-temperature heatpumps

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High-speed compressors for high-temperature applications

1. Classification and positioning

ASA develops and manufactures high-speed compressors for demanding high-temperature applications in research, industry, and OEM environments.
All ASA compressors are high-speed machines and are typically operated at speeds exceeding 100,000 rpm.

The use of high speeds is not an end in itself, but rather a necessary for:

  • High power density,
  • compact designs,
  • flexible integration into thermodynamic processes,
  • and operation under extreme thermal and mechanical conditions.

2. High speed as a fundamental technical principle at ASA

Unlike conventional series or HVAC compressors, ASA technology is based entirely on high-speed concepts.

2.1 Characteristic features

  • Rotational speeds: typically > 100,000 rpm
  • Multi-stage concepts: single-stage to multi-stage, depending on pressure level and process
  • High power density: compact machines with high specific power ratings
  • Oil-free or fluid-adapted concepts: depending on working medium and application
  • Thermal decoupling: targeted separation of hot and cold zones
  • Integrated instrumetation and measurement technology: for research, validation, and safe operation

High speed is the design basis at ASA, not only a special case.

3. Areas of application for high-speed compressors (overview)

ASA’s high-speed compressors are used in the following four areas in particular:

3.1 High-temperature heat pumps (HT-WP)

  • Industrial process heat
  • Research & pilot plants
  • Special applications beyond conventional heat pump technology

3.2 Thermodynamic cycles with phase change

  • Rankine and ORC processes
  • Steam compression at higher temperatures
  • Research and demonstration plants

3.3 Gas-based cycle processes

  • Brayton cycles
  • sCO₂ Brayton cycles
  • High-temperature and high-pressure applications

3.4 Research, testing, and special applications

  • Test benches for high-speed machines
  • Technology and component development
  • Prototypes and pre-series for OEMs

4. Focus: High-temperature heat pump compressors

In the field of high-temperature heat pumps, ASA offers the compressor as a stand-alone functional unit – regardless of whether a complete system is implemented or not.

4.1 Differences from conventional heat pumps

ASA-HT-WP compressors are:

  • No mass-produced products
  • No off-the-shelf goods
  • Not comparable with HVAC or standard heat pump compressors

They are individually designed regarding:

  • Temperature range
  • Working medium (e.g., air, steam, process gases)
  • Pressure level
  • Speed
  • Integration into the overall system—interfaces

5. Design freedom and customization

Implementation takes place depending on project requirements:

5.1 Based on standardized basic modules

  • Proven high-speed architectures
  • Short development times
  • High system availability

5.2 As a fully customized design

  • Custom compressor geometry
  • Specific material selection
  • Adapted cooling and sealing concept
  • Project-specific interfaces and measurement technology

6. Project examples (selection)

The following projects are examples of ASA’s expertise in the field of high-speed compressors for high-temperature applications:

6.1 Two-stage steam compressor for Rankine cycle
Power per stage: 35–70 kW
High-speed design for increased steam parameters

6.2 Two-stage air compressor for Brayton cycle
Total compressor power: approx. 60 kW
Focus on compact design and thermal decoupling

6.3 Three-stage air compressor for Brayton application
Total compressor power: approx. 15 kW
Use in research and development environments

7. Project management and collaboration

Depending on the project, ASA assumes defined parts or complete responsibility for:

  • Design
  • Construction
  • Manufacturing
  • Integration and  supporting initial operation

Cooperation with the client is close and project-based.
Responsibilities, scope of services, and interfaces are clearly defined.

8. Distribution and availability

Due to their individual design, high-speed compressors are suitable for high-temperature applications:

  • Not available through the shop
  • No standard products

Specifications, scope of delivery, and schedule are determined exclusively within the framework of a technical project.