Advanced turbo machinery for cryogenic applications
As demand for high-performance cryogenic systems continues to grow, the requirements placed on cryogenic machinery are becoming increasingly challenging. High efficiency, low vibration levels, contamination-free operation and long service life are critical factors for reliable operation at temperatures down to 20 K and below.
Celeroton addresses these requirements with advanced gas-bearing turbo compressors and expanders specifically developed for cryogenic environments. The company’s portfolio includes two key technology solutions: turbo machinery for Reverse Turbo-Brayton (RTB) cryocoolers and high-performance cold compressors for cryogenic gas circulation and pressure boosting.
For RTB cryocoolers, Celeroton supplies oil-free turbo compressors and turbo expanders together with dedicated power electronics. The technology enables highly efficient cryogenic cooling using helium, neon and other process gases. Unlike conventional bearing systems, Celeroton’s gas bearing technology operates without oil lubrication, rotating seals or wear during operation. This enables contamination-free performance, maintenance-free operation and exceptionally low vibration levels.
A distinguishing feature of the RTB solution is the integration of generator-equipped turbo expanders. The energy recovered during gas expansion can be fed back into the electrical system, improving overall cryocooler efficiency. Advanced control is achieved through independent speed control of both the compressor and expander(s), allowing fine-tuning of mass flow and expansion ratios. The compact architecture also allows direct integration of the expander into the cold box, supporting highly optimized cryogenic system designs.
In addition to RTB cryocoolers, Celeroton develops cold compressors for cryogenic gas handling applications. These systems combine high pressure ratios with very low vibration levels and are particularly suited for integration directly within cryogenic environments. The oil-free gas bearing design eliminates contamination risks while supporting reliable long-term operation under demanding conditions.
The technology is applicable across a broad range of cryogenic markets. Examples include quantum computing, superconducting magnets, cables, motors and generators, hydrogen liquefaction and storage systems, scientific research infrastructure, medical cryogenic systems and advanced space missions. In these applications, cryogenic machinery must deliver high performance while maintaining the cleanliness, reliability and operational stability required by sensitive processes and equipment.
“We see growing demand for cryogenic solutions across superconducting systems, hydrogen infrastructure, medical applications and space missions,” says Raphael Moser, Sales Manager at Celeroton AG. “Customers are increasingly looking for solutions that combine high efficiency, low vibration levels and long-term reliability. Gas-bearing turbo machinery enables exactly these characteristics, even at temperatures down to 20 K and beyond.”
“Many emerging cryogenic applications require a combination of high efficiency, ultra-low vibration levels and maintenance-free operation,” adds Christof Zwyssig, CTO of Celeroton AG. “Gas-bearing turbo machinery uniquely addresses these requirements while enabling reliable operation from ambient temperatures down to 20 K and beyond.”
Building on its expertise in gas-bearing turbo machinery, Celeroton is advancing compressor and expander technologies that enable efficient, oil-free and low-vibration cryogenic systems operating from ambient temperatures down to 20 K and beyond.
