This project is concerned with the development of a novel thermal management controller (TMC) for micro-Combined Heat and power (micro-CHP) systems. Stirling-engine based units for providing heat and electricity for individual houses are increasingly of interest and several units are entering the marketplace. However, their economic operation and their ability to satisfy user heat demands could be much improved by a more sophisticated thermal management system that combines highly effective storage of heat with the ability to release such stored energy in amounts and at times to accurately meet the nees of the consumer. Using phase change materials with high thermal conductivity (istead of a large water storage tank) and an innovative 'heat pipe' for controlling heat release, the partners believe that their TMC will accelerate the take-up of domestic micro-CHP, as well as having applications at the larger scale.

The project will assess the feasibility of a solution to the cost, size, efficiency and longevity problems of existing technology for thermal and water management (TWM) of the air (cathode) side of Porous Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFC). The aim is to provide low-cost but precise temperature and flow control of air/water/heat flows within the TWM unit. The benefits will be lower cost, size and weight, and improved efficiency, power density and longevity.

The development and use of additive layer manufacture to produce extremely lightweight heat exchanging and power components for space applications

The public description for this project has been requested but has not yet been received.