PhD Study : Advanced Heat Pump Systems Accommodating High Temperature Evaporation

Summary

The aim of LoT-NET is to prove a cost-effective near-zero emissions solution for heating and cooling that realises the huge potential of waste heat and renewable energies by utilising a combination of a low-cost low-loss flexible heat distribution network together with novel input, output and storage technologies.

The EU is cutting the availability of hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs) by 79% between 2015 and 2030 due to high Global Warming Potential and alternative fluids must be evaluated. BEIS see heat pumps as part of decarbonisation of space heating but their high cost is noted by BEIS involvement in the global initiative “Mission Innovation: Affordable Heating and Cooling”. The vapour compression heat pump operating in conjunction with lower grade heat networks e.g. below 30°C or solar energy, can uplift such heat to underfloor heating temperatures (<40°C) with a coefficient of performance >10 (very low running costs) and provide domestic hot water temperatures avoiding legionella concerns (~60°C) with a coefficient of performance >5.0 with current refrigerants e.g. R410a and R32. However revised heat exchangers must be developed. Extending the temperature lift further sees fluids such as R1233zd being able to upgrade low grade waste heat to process temperatures.

Thus, this project will focus initially on the development of low temperature lift heat pumps focussing on novel evaporator development and solar augmentation. It will then extend into higher temperature units to address space heating and process applications.

Essential criteria

Applicants should hold, or expect to obtain, a First or Upper Second Class Honours Degree in a subject relevant to the proposed area of study.

We may also consider applications from those who hold equivalent qualifications, for example, a Lower Second Class Honours Degree plus a Master’s Degree with Distinction.

In exceptional circumstances, the University may consider a portfolio of evidence from applicants who have appropriate professional experience which is equivalent to the learning outcomes of an Honours degree in lieu of academic qualifications.

• Clearly defined research proposal detailing background, research questions, aims and methodology

Funding and eligibility

This project is funded by:

• UU Scholarship for EPSRC Lot-net

The University offers the following levels of support:

Vice Chancellors Research Studentship (VCRS)

The following scholarship options are available to applicants worldwide:

• Full Award: (full-time tuition fees + £19,000 (tbc))
• Part Award: (full-time tuition fees + £9,500)
• Fees Only Award: (full-time tuition fees)

These scholarships will cover full-time PhD tuition fees for three years (subject to satisfactory academic performance) and will provide a £900 per annum research training support grant (RTSG) to help support the PhD researcher.

Applicants who already hold a doctoral degree or who have been registered on a programme of research leading to the award of a doctoral degree on a full-time basis for more than one year (or part-time equivalent) are NOT eligible to apply for an award.

Please note: you will automatically be entered into the competition for the Full Award, unless you state otherwise in your application.

Due consideration should be given to financing your studies. Further information on cost of living

UU Scholarship for EPSRC Lot-net