What is Apugenius?
Apugenius is a start-up based in Lappeenranta, Finland, developing the world's most efficient micro gas turbine. The 50 kW gas turbine utilizes a two-stage compression process, and it is based on numerous innovations coming from extensive university research by the idea developers and practical experience from Finnish hydrogen turbine operators. The company is led by top Finnish experts in the hydrogen sector and electrical engineering.
A core idea behind the technology is the concept of emission-free energy for mobility, which does not rely on excessive use of natural resources or mining of rare ores. The gas turbine is designed to utilize emission-free hydrogen, but it is also capable of using other gases or liquids as fuel.
Starting from scratch
Mertala Innovations is the main mechanical designer for the APU50 micro gas turbine, which is transitioning to the prototype phase. Apart from electrical and flow technical components, we have designed or been involved in designing nearly everything from rotor vibration calculations to impeller shrink fits and from labyrinth seals to various thermal and strength calculations.
The high-speed rotating rotor has posed its own challenges, including the selection of bearings and their lubrication. Manufacturability and assembly have been at the forefront of both component and overall system design throughout. Almost everything has been designed from scratch, which has brought both challenges and opportunities.
EU funded development project
The development project has received EU funding. Julia Vauterin, CEO of Apugenius, is pleased with the design subcontracting:
Mertala's high-quality mechanical design expertise combines with creative brainstorming, innovative thinking, and fearlessness in tackling challenges. We are genuinely satisfied with Lauri's and Asko's skills and definitely want to maintain Mertala's excellent expertise.
The APU50 micro gas turbine is moving towards a prototype building phase, and we are cannot wait to share more about the product's development. We are extremely proud to have been entrusted with the development of Finnish cutting-edge technology for the green transition!
