SteamDry continues to advance innovative solutions for energy-efficient industrial drying with a new scientific publication presented at the 15th IEA Heat Pump Conference 2026, held in Vienna, Austria, from 26 to 29 May 2026.
The conference paper, entitled “Heat recovery with steam compressor: Dynamic model of a superheated steam drying system to evaluate efficient system operation,” presents a dynamic modelling approach to optimise energy consumption and heat recovery in superheated steam drying (SSD) systems.
The research was developed by SteamDry partners AIT Austrian Institute of Technology, Piller Blowers & Compressors GmbH, and Wageningen University & Research, highlighting the project’s collaborative efforts to develop more sustainable drying technologies.
Advancing Energy Efficiency Through Superheated Steam Drying
Drying is one of the most energy-intensive processes in the pulp and paper industry, accounting for approximately 60–70% of its thermal energy consumption. Improving drying efficiency is therefore essential to reducing industrial energy demand and greenhouse gas emissions.
Superheated steam drying offers a promising alternative to conventional drying technologies by enabling heat recovery and more efficient energy use.
The newly published research investigates a closed-loop drying system integrating a steam compressor, heat exchanger and electrical heater. A dynamic model developed using Modelica/Dymola allows researchers to simulate the interactions between these components and assess their performance under different operating conditions.
Key Research Findings
The study explores how variations in drying temperature, steam circulation and air leakage influence system performance and energy efficiency.
The results highlight several important findings:
- Optimising operating temperatures: Lower drying temperatures can reduce energy demand, although adjustments to steam circulation may be required to maintain drying performance.
- Maximising heat recovery: Integrating steam compression and heat exchange offers opportunities to recover energy and improve overall system efficiency.
- Understanding air leakage: Air infiltration reduces heat recovery efficiency and increases the electrical heating required, highlighting the importance of effective system design.
- Supporting industrial implementation: Dynamic modelling provides valuable insights into operational stability and helps identify suitable configurations for future industrial applications.
These findings demonstrate the importance of considering the entire drying system when developing efficient and reliable technologies.
Supporting SteamDry’s Mission
This research directly contributes to SteamDry’s objective of developing innovative drying solutions capable of significantly reducing energy consumption in energy-intensive industries.
By combining advanced modelling, heat recovery technologies and process optimisation, the project aims to support the transition towards more sustainable and competitive industrial processes.
The next steps include experimental validation of the drying model, providing further insights into the practical application of these technologies.
Read the Publication
The conference paper is available through the proceedings of the 15th IEA Heat Pump Conference 2026.
Publication: Heat recovery with steam compressor: Dynamic model of a superheated steam drying system to evaluate efficient system operation
Authors: Michael Poelzl, Reinhard Jentsch, Johannes Riedl, Gregor Schumm, Marcel Meinders, Felix Hubmann and Sabrina Dusek.
Conference: 15th IEA Heat Pump Conference 2026, Vienna, Austria.
📄 Read the paper: https://zenodo.org/records/23563157