TÜV NORD builds high-performance test rig for heat pumps
In Essen entsteht das europaweit leistungsstärkste unabhängige Prüflabor für Wärmepumpen.
In Essen entsteht das europaweit leistungsstärkste unabhängige Prüflabor für Wärmepumpen.
TÜV NORD is investing 1.5 million euros in a new heat pump test bench in Essen. The company aims to become the leading European testing service provider in this segment. Together with the existing test benches in the company's refrigeration and air conditioning laboratory, this will create a globally unique offering. “With our new test bench, we will actively support the heat and energy transition,” says Monika Steimle, Head of PC Testing at TÜV NORD.
Heat pumps are set to give the heating and energy transition a boost. This is why manufacturers are currently developing many new systems and investing billions in their development. Double-digit growth rates are expected in this market in the medium to long term. However, there is a lack of test benches for independent testing: Their number and performance limits are not sufficient to meet the increasing demand in line with requirements. The new TÜV NORD laboratory will close this gap, especially as the technical know-how and the necessary accreditations are already available. Further accreditations, for example for the testing of heat pumps for domestic hot water heating, are being sought.
Construction of the new test stand will start in July, with trial operation scheduled to begin in November. “We assume that the first tests on behalf of customers can take place in the first quarter of 2025,” says Monika Steimle. “We have already received inquiries from all over the world - the demand is there.” The new test bench will be able to perform performance tests on heat pumps up to 100 kW and temperatures down to -30 degrees outside. Together with the other existing test benches at the TÜV NORD CAMPUS in Essen, a complete range of third-party tests for refrigeration and air-conditioning technology is being created with the full range of tests in all performance classes, at all temperatures and with all refrigerants. For example, central ventilation and air conditioning units for air conditioning in office buildings, process
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