Heat Pumps: A Clean Energy Solution for Industrial Heat

Industrial heat, a crucial element in various industries such as brewing, food processing, chemical manufacturing, and paper mills, has traditionally relied heavily on fossil fuels. However, a new wave of startups is emerging to address this reliance, focusing on the development of innovative heat pumps powered by electricity.

• These heat pumps utilize renewable energy sources like wind and solar power to generate clean heat.
• They offer a sustainable alternative to traditional fossil fuel-based heating methods, contributing to reduced carbon emissions and a cleaner environment.

Karman Industries: A New Player in the Heat Pump Market

Karman Industries, a stealthy startup with roots in Riot Ventures, is making waves in the industrial heat pump sector. Inspired by SpaceX's rocket technology, Karman is developing high-performance, compact heat pumps.

• The company's approach leverages turbomachinery, a technology commonly found in rockets, to enhance the efficiency and compactness of their heat pumps.
• This innovative design enables Karman's heat pumps to achieve significant heat transfer in a smaller footprint compared to traditional heat pump models.

Turbomachinery: The Key to High-Performance Heat Pumps

Karman's heat pumps incorporate turbomachinery, a technology known for its exceptional speed and efficiency. Turbomachinery is commonly used in rockets to pump fuel at high pressures and temperatures.

• By integrating turbomachinery into their heat pumps, Karman aims to minimize the size and complexity of the units while maximizing heat output.
• This approach not only reduces the space requirement but also simplifies maintenance and operation.

Heat Pump Technology for Industrial Processes

Karman's heat pumps are designed to meet the specific heating needs of various industrial processes.

• Their technology can provide the necessary heat for processes requiring temperatures up to 150 degrees Celsius, making them suitable for applications in food and beverage manufacturing, chemical production, and other industrial settings.
• The company's heat pumps are capable of achieving high temperatures in a single or two stages, reducing the number of compressors required compared to conventional systems.
• This streamlined approach translates to cost savings and simplified operation.

Karman Industries: A Promising Future for Industrial Heat

Karman Industries is poised to disrupt the traditional industrial heat landscape with its innovative heat pump technology. Their focus on turbomachinery and compact design has garnered significant interest from investors, with Riot Ventures leading a $4 million pre-seed investment round.

• The company is actively developing its first model, Thermal01, which is projected to be cost-competitive with natural gas in select regions and applications.
• Karman aims to complete a pilot installation at a customer site in the first half of 2026, marking a significant step towards commercialization.