Dr Liliana de Lillo, University of Nottingham

The world’s energy needs are increasing and there is a global drive to reduce carbon emissions. Innovative technologies are required to achieve this, and the electrification of multiple sectors such as automotive and aerospace is gathering pace. 28% of global electricity is used in industrial motors, of which 85% are driven at full speed and then use mechanical systems to regulate the output which is wasteful. Variable Frequency Drive (VFD) technologies allow these motors to be driven at an optimum speed. It has been shown that very significant savings can be made using VFD technologies but, these always require a clean, temperature-controlled environment and expensive filters and cables to connect to the motors. The installation costs are prohibitively expensive and typically take many years to recover.
In collaboration with ITT Industrial Process Dr de Lillo aims to deliver reductions in manufacturing process energy usage, as well as raw materials needed. Other areas of innovation will ensure that the through-life energy losses are minimised, resulting in reduced running costs and CO2 emissions.