Auxillary Heat & Power Systems

HiETA sees an opportunity to exploit its unique design techniques, IP and license rights based
on Selective Laser Melting (SLM) for heat exchangers and engine systems. SLM is a form of
additive powder layer manufacturing suitable for high performance alloys and constructing
crucial components of heat engines for the automotive sector.
There are at least four distinct applications for the new engines: as Auxiliary Power Unit
(APU) that can operate either off the exhaust heat of the vehicle’s main internal combustion
engine or off a separate fuel supply (mainly large trucks, particularly in the USA); as an APU
operating off the main engine’s exhaust heat alone (cars); as an APU operating off the exhaust
heat of the Range Extender of an electric or hybrid vehicle; or as a fuelled range extender
itself. The functions and benefits include generation of electrical power, elimination of the
alternator, reduction in the size of the internal combustion engine needed, improved fuel
consumption, and reductions in emissions.
Successful development will lead to other opportunities in micro power generation and
defence sectors.
At present there is limited specialist design and production capability in the UK and for this
technology generally and so developing the skill set and knowledge base to improve this
situation is an important additional goal.