MOHAWK INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGY, INC. — Department of Energy SBIR Phase I: DE-FOA0001380

Description

The team of Mohawk Innovative Technology Inc., (MiTi), University of Texas – Center for Electro-Mechanics and MITIS of Belgium propose a truly transformative, ultra-high-speed and oilfree, Hyperlaminar Flow Engine (HFE) system that combines low cost viscous shear driven compressor and expander, an integrated low pressure drop recuperator, flameless combustor, permanent magnet generator, lubricant free air foil bearings, advanced power electronics and thermoelectric generator elements to meet the needs of a residential combined heat and power (CHP) plant with 40% electrical efficiency, 2kW total capacity (50/50 thermal/electrical) with low NOx and CO2 emissions (estimated at 4.1E-5 lb/MW-h, and <900 lb/MW-hr) and no particulate matter. The proposed concept (see Figure 1 and 2) will use the viscous shear driven compressor and expander discs with micro-inch scale flow patterns and close clearance compliant foil mating surfaces to achieve the desired pressure and flow at very high spin speeds. While Figure 2 shows grooves and tessellation patterns etched on discs, they may be applied to the compliant surface to greater effect. MiTi's 5th generation foil bearings use no lubricants, have very low power loss, nearly unlimited speed and life capabilities and require no maintenance. Due to the high operating frequencies of the machine (i.e., ~5 to 6 kHz), structure-born and airflow acoustic noise damping is readily achieved. Thermal insulation materials will damp structure born noise. Primary noise reduction in the exhaust airflow will be achieved using flow speed induced frequency drift noise cancellation via appropriate recuperator and exhaust path geometries. The unique combination of technologies, including the micro-scale flameless combustor with the viscous shear compressor and expanders, foil bearings, PM generator, high frequency power electronics and technical expertise of the assembled team are what make this innovative and transformative concept very feasible. This stand-alone system concept will meet all of the efficiency, emissions, cost and weight metrics of this FOA.