10182656Heat recovery and process efficiency optimisation in advanced plasma coating manufacturing (Zircotec Ltd.)ClosedBusiness ConnectInnovate UKThe Materials Processing Institute will develop an integrated energy-efficiency technology for Zircotec Ltd to significantly reduce heat loss and electricity consumption across its plasma-coating operations. The project will design a modular heat-recovery and cooling-optimisation system that captures waste heat from compressors and chillers and reuses it for heating within the facility, while also improving the efficiency and resilience of process cooling. By consolidating cooling systems, introducing free-cooling where outdoor temperatures allow, and recovering low-grade heat for space and water heating, the project aims to reduce energy demand, cut operating costs, and lower carbon emissions. The output of this work will include a detailed system design, energy model, and implementation plan, enabling Zircotec to implement a full industrial-scale solution with minimal disruption to production. This project will support Zircotec's net-zero ambitions and demonstrate a replicable pathway for improving energy performance in energy-intensive UK manufacturing environments.