Resource efficiency through isothermal changes of state using liquid injection for compressors and gas expansion machines

In the theoretical model, isothermal changes of state in compressors and expansion machines lead to the best possible efficiencies with efficiency increases of up to 25 % compared to the status quo. In this context, isothermal changes of state are understood as a change in pressure and specific volume at constant temperature.

Basic experiments have demonstrated that isothermal state changes are possible by spray injection in gas atmospheres. In the project, injection parameters are therefore to be optimized so that they can be applied in compressors, gas expansion machines and Stirling engines. The liquid injection system developed will thus enable isothermal expansion and compression in compressors and engines.

With the support of industrial partners, the reliability of the method will be reproducibly demonstrated using compressors and expansion machines as examples. Adoption of the technology could achieve primary energy and CO2 savings of 10–25 %.