A significant part of global energy consumption is used for industrial heating, mainly by burning natural gas and coal. The heating processes used today require inefficient radio frequency generators, based on older technology. The new project 'Greenheat' - a collaboration between Topsil GlobalWafers, Kallesoe Machinery and Aalborg University - will contribute to CO2 neutrality through the development of new technology for industrial heating.

The project builds on previously achieved results. The participants will bring completely new concepts into play and develop and demonstrate two full-scale prototypes of cutting-edge radio frequency generators that surpasses existing technology by:

1) being scalable and modular up to over 100 kW

2) reducing electrical energy consumption by at least 40%

3) requiring less maintenance thanks to the longer life of the component

4) being cheaper than existing solutions.

The prototypes are to be tested and used in the production lines of two Danish companies: Topsil GlobalWafers in Frederikssund and Kallesoe Machinery in Lem.

Topsil Globalwafers is one of the very few companies in the world which can produce ultrapure silicon crystals industrially, while Kallesoe Machinery is a leader in construction of machines and plants for the production of laminated wood (CLT - Cross Laminated Timber, structural beams, etc.).

Both industries have strategic importance for achieving CO2 neutrality within other sectors. Ultrapure silicon is required in the production of semiconductor components for green technology and otherwise for the general electrification of society. CLT enables sustainable alternatives for the development of civil infrastructure, by replacing the CO2-heavy use of cement.

"A successful project will make radio frequency heating technology economically attractive and thus pave the way for a very significant green potential, both directly at ourselves - and derived for other socially important industrial areas," says Sune Bro Duun, head of the development department at Topsil GlobalWafers.

Kristian Kallesøe, CEO at Kallesoe Machinery adds: "A new generation of radio frequency generators will not only optimize existing solutions, but will also be able to replace conventional fossil fuel solutions in the process industry. It will be a great asset for a wide range of industry, and it will be able to contribute significantly to the green transition”.