The system, set to revolutionise engines with more efficient and greener technology, will be one of a number of breakthroughs discussed at the world’s first technology forum for linear power systems technology researchers and application developers.
‘Linear Power 2015’ at the university from 7-8 September will debate how free piston linear power systems could transform how electrical power is generated, how vehicles are powered, and how heating and cooling are provided.
The university and Libertine’s heat recovery project, part-funded by the UK government through Innovate UK, uses a pair of Libertine's linear free-piston expanders to convert waste exhaust heat into electrical power.
Dr Rob Morgan, Reader in the university’s School of Computing, Engineering and Mathematics, is leading the project for the university. He said: “The free piston system offers efficiency and cost benefits over conventional turbine and screw expanders, thereby increasing market uptake of the technology in the commercial vehicle market and reducing CO2 emissions.
“The potential reduction in CO2 emissions from successful commercialisation of the technology would benefit the road haulage industry through reduced operating costs and society as a whole in reducing greenhouse gas emissions.”