News Article

Raising the Bar: Sapphire Technologies Achieves UL Certification for FreeSpin® In-line Turboexpander System

November 19, 2024

At Sapphire Technologies, we are committed to leading the way in energy recovery innovation, delivering solutions that maximize efficiency and generate revenue from otherwise wasted energy. ​We ​are proud to announce that our FreeSpin® In-line Turboexpander system has achieved UL 1741 certification, underscoring our dedication to meeting the highest safety and operational standards in renewable energy.

The FreeSpin® In-line Turboexpander: Innovation in Energy Recovery

Energy recovery plays a pivotal role in reducing carbon emissions while maximizing the efficiency of industrial processes. Sapphire Technologies’ FreeSpin® In-line Turboexpander (FIT) is at the forefront of this movement. By capturing and converting wasted pressure energy from natural gas and hydrogen systems into clean, zero-emission electricity, the FIT system helps industries meet growing energy demands sustainably.

How It Works

The FIT system uses advanced turboexpander technology to harness kinetic energy during gas pressure reduction. Integrated with a high-speed permanent magnet generator and Sapphire’s proprietary power electronics, the system ensures:

  • Zero Emissions: Operates without fuel, producing no pollutants.
  • Low Maintenance: Magnetic bearings eliminate the need for gearboxes or lubrication, reducing the risk of environmental hazards and increasing reliability.
  • Compact Efficiency: Delivers high power density with a smaller footprint compared to traditional systems.

This seamless integration of cutting-edge components makes the FreeSpin® system a game-changer for industries looking to reduce operational costs and environmental impact.

The Importance of UL 1741 Certification

UL 1741 certification is a benchmark for safety and performance in energy systems. We are pleased to announce that we have completed our latest product development and deliver a system that is UL 1741 certified. Certification highlights include:

  • Safety Compliance: Ensures protection against hazards such as overcurrent and short circuits.
  • Grid Compatibility: Enables seamless integration with electrical systems, supporting grid resilience and renewable energy deployment.
  • Operational Integrity: Validates consistent performance under real-world conditions, including extreme temperatures and variable pressures.

This milestone positions Sapphire Technologies as a trusted provider of certified, reliable, and sustainable energy recovery solutions.

Why This Matters

As energy demands rise and the global push for decarbonization accelerates, solutions like the FreeSpin® system play a crucial role in enabling industries to operate more efficiently and sustainably. UL certification provides assurance to customers and partners that Sapphire’s technology meets rigorous standards for safety, performance, and reliability.

By recovering pressure energy from natural gas pipelines and other industrial applications, the FreeSpin® In-line Turboexpander empowers users to:

  • Generate Zero-Carbon Electricity: Convert wasted pressure energy into clean electricity with no added pollution.
  • Improve Operational Efficiency: Reduce energy costs and improve productivity.
  • Support Environmental Goals: Help industries achieve carbon reduction targets.
  • Generate additional revenue from otherwise wasted pressure energy

What This Means for Customers

Achieving UL 1741 certification isn’t just a technical milestone—it’s a customer-focused achievement. This certification ensures that every FreeSpin® In-line Turboexpander system is built to provide:

  • Peace of Mind: Compliance with recognized safety standards.
  • Cost Savings: Efficient energy recovery translates to reduced operational expenses.
  • Sustainability Gains: Zero-emission electricity helps industries meet environmental goals.

What’s Next for Sapphire Technologies?

Sapphire Technologies remains committed to continuous innovation and global impact. Following the success of partnerships such as the recent partnership with CCYS in China and Horizon Shores in Nigeria, we are expanding the deployment of our systems to new markets. With UL 1741 certification, we are poised to meet growing demand for safe, reliable energy recovery solutions.

Stay connected for more updates on how Sapphire Technologies is shaping the future of energy.

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