Development of a high-efficiency multifuel small-scale turbo generator for low-cost distributed ground combined heat and power

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Ceragy is a company founded in Sherbrooke to manufacture engines with ceramic components based on technologies licensed from the Université de Sherbrooke (UdS). The Ceragy engine has the potential to cut greenhouse gas emissions by offering high-efficiency distributed power at low cost with both conventional fuels and biofuels. High thermal efficiency is enabled by key technologies derived from the UdS Rim-Rotor Rotary Ramjet Engine (R4E) that allows high combustion temperature, namely compression-loaded ceramic blades wrapped in a carbon-fiber rim-rotor and a compact low-NOx rotating combustor taking advantage of buoyancy-driven flame propagation. Using the R4E technology in a two-stage recuperative Brayton cycle, the Ceragy engine is projected to achieve an efficiency of 50 % at a cost below 500 $/kW. This increased efficiency results in a fuel consumption reduction of 30 % when compared to state-of-the-art conventional small-scale gas turbines for the Combined Heat-and-Power (CHP) market.The objective of the proposed research project is to optimize the Ceragy engine high-temperature components to achieve high thermal efficiency for distributed CHP with conventional fuels and biofuels. Fundamental and applied research will be carried on the key novel elements of the Ceragy engine to maximize combustion temperature, namely the combustor, turbine, and recuperator. Findings will be integrated and tested in three engine prototypes. In parallel, Ceragy will design the engine for manufacturing, conduct field tests and prepare manufacturing during years 2 to 4 to launch engine production in year 5.If successful, the research will provide Ceragy with a clear edge over other manufacturers of small-scale distributed power generation units. This research will also propel Ceragy to become a world-leader engine manufacturer here in Canada (Sherbrooke, Québec), thereby hiring and training many Canadian highly-qualified personnel for the design, testing and assembly of the Ceragy engine.