ebm-papst presents integrated R290 heat pump demonstrator in Germany

ebm-papst has commissioned a fully functional air-to-water heat pump demonstrator at its Landshut site in Germany. The monoblock unit serves as a reference and development platform integrating the fan, evaporator system, refrigeration circuit and electronics.

The system combines a fan with a microchannel evaporator, the compact CompaNamic high-speed turbo compressor and inverter electronics designed for very high rotational speeds. The oil-free compressor reduces vibrations and improves the system’s overall efficiency.

An intelligent refrigeration circuit control system connects actuators and sensors and communicates via Modbus. The demonstrator provides 23 kW (approximately 78,500 BTU/h) of heating capacity, supports hot water temperatures up to 70 °C (158 °F) and operates from −10 to 30 °C (14 to 86 °F). It uses propane (R290) as the refrigerant.

Bavarian Minister-President Dr. Markus Söder commissioned the demonstrator on July 9, 2026. Its integration into the Refrigeration Innovation Center enables ebm-papst to simulate real-world operating conditions and develop system expertise for manufacturers of heating and air conditioning technology.

“Anyone who wants to help shape the heat pump of the future must understand the entire system,” said Managing Director Dr. Hannes Säubert. “The heat pump demonstrator lays the foundation for this. It helps us build system expertise and support our customers even more effectively as equal development partners in the future.”