German manufacturer Rheinmetall has won a €770 million (US$839 million) long-term supply contract of propane (R290)-based compressors, according to a statement from the company.
Industry sources have said that the compressors are for a manufacturer of domestic heat pumps.
Rheinmetall – which is widely known for its supply of military vehicles and equipment – was chosen due to the “outstanding key performance data and long service life” of its compressor, as well as its use of propane, the company said.
“Depending on the process control, highly efficient heating and cooling performance can be achieved, making the refrigerant compressor a valuable tool for minimizing CO2 emissions,” it added.
“Depending on the process control, highly efficient heating and cooling performance can be achieved, making the refrigerant compressor a valuable tool for minimizing CO2 emissions.”
Rheinmetall
According to the manufacturer, the R290 compressor is “highly integrated and extraordinarily compact” and can ensure a “high degree of effectiveness and low operating noise.”
The compressor is similar in design to those used in motor vehicles; however, multiple modifications were carried out to prepare it for “the special industrial purpose,” including the basic design and the hardware and software,” said Rheinmetall. “This gives the compressors a significantly greater service life, [and] it meets the applicable standards in the field.”
Over the last eight months, heat pumps have become a significant discussion point across Europe thanks to the European Commission’s REPowerEU plan.
In an effort to reduce Europe’s reliance on Russian fossil fuels, the plan aims to have 30 million heat pumps installed across the region by 2030.
Strategy diversification
Falling under the Rheinmetall Group’s Sensors and Actuators division, this contract is the company’s largest ever order outside of its military work and automotive sector, marking success in its efforts to diversify in the industrial sector, it said.
“The Group’s globe-spanning production network and proximity to customers around the world make Rheinmetall a highly competent, agile partner for industrial customers far beyond the bounds of the automotive sector, including public authorities,” it explained.
The deal also supports the manufacturer’s goal to contribute to the reduction of global greenhouse gas emissions and enhanced efficiency, it added.
