Acoustic heat pump uses sound energy to heat and cool homes

In the conditions of the energy crisis, the possibilities of launching new technologies and developing others that are already known are taking on a new expression. The gas crisis, the prices of other fossil fuels and the reflection of these high energy production prices are opening the door to new products. This was the goal of investing in a solution that has been talked about for several years to use an acoustic heat pump that does not emit greenhouse gases and has a very low carbon footprint.

In practice, this equipment uses sound energy to heat and cool homes. Do you know that even noise can generate heat energy?

With climate change, the energy transition is inevitable. We know solar, wind and water energy, but sonic energy is now the new alternative to fossil fuels.

The technology has been used by several companies, including the French horses which developed a product that uses sound waves in a heat pump to provide environmentally friendly, economical and easy-to-use thermal comfort.

How does thermoacoustics work?

Thermoacoustics is a complex natural phenomenon that includes thermal, acoustic and hydromechanical mechanics. Inside the machines, a gradient of temperature or electricity generates acoustic waves that are automatically amplified. When performing work of compression/expansion, as does a piston in a heat engine or compression, acoustic waves effectively pump out heat.

The operation does not use moving parts or refrigerant gas. When compressed, waves release heat, and when expanded, they release cold.

Advantages of acoustic heat pumps

In the construction sector, a high percentage of carbon emissions come from district heating and hot water. The use of acoustic heat pumps can help to significantly reduce these emissions. Compression/expansion work uses a neutral gas that does not cause a greenhouse effect and leaves a small carbon footprint.

It is estimated that using an acoustic heat pump can reduce CO2 emissions by up to 80%.

The technology is mainly developed using fully recyclable materials. In addition, it is a particularly economical product with a service life of more than 30 years and does not require special care.

Whereas traditional high temperature heat pumps must turn on and off when the outside temperature is above 5˚C, an acoustic heat pump works at all times by power modulation.

Comparison with traditional heat pump

The traditional heat pump is known for its high cost, especially in terms of maintenance. In addition, it has a limited life and a cycling problem, which can contribute to the degradation of the theoretical conversion efficiency (COP).

Another negative point for a traditional heat pump is the use of gaseous refrigerant. Not only is this gas harmful to the environment, it also requires hiring a professional to install the appropriate pump. This may increase the selling price of the product to some extent.

According to the company, for an acoustic pump, the installation is quite simple and does not require the services of a specialist. The acoustic heat pump also has the lowest cost of ownership compared to all modern heat pumps and traditional high temperature boilers.