Armin Hafner

This PhD position is hosted by the Department of Energy and Process Engineering at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU) in Trondheim, within the Refrigeration research group and its broader P&P environment. The project is part of the KSP initiative IndHTHP and is carried out in close collaboration with SINTEF Energi AS , giving the candidate access to joint research facilities and a strong applied research network. The research focuses on industrial high-temperature heat pumps for decarbonized heat generation. The project addresses how heat-pump technologies can support the electrification of industrial heat, with emphasis on large-scale systems that can deliver higher supply temperatures, larger capacities, compact designs, and flexible operation. A central theme is the use of natural refrigerants and water-based systems in industrial settings, with attention to reliability, leak-tightness, and sector-specific safety constraints. The PhD candidate will work on modelling, optimization, and validation of high-temperature heat-pump systems. Core activities include developing dynamic simulation models, analysing and improving cycle architectures, examining working fluids and control strategies, and assessing techno-economic performance and industrial applicability. The project also includes laboratory experiments and industrial field demonstrations, linking simulation work to practical validation in realistic operating conditions. Within the research group, the student will benefit from established expertise in vapour compression systems using natural working fluids and from collaboration with senior researchers. Workshops and international activities are part of the environment, and the candidate is expected to contribute to academic dissemination, publications, conferences, and research visits. The position also includes supervision of project and master's thesis students, reflecting the group’s teaching and mentoring culture. The broader project goal is to accelerate adoption of industrial high-temperature heat pumps in Norwegian industry and to support the development of future pilot and demonstration projects.