There are numerous businesses in New Zealand that have been built around 'Kiwi ingenuity' and WhisperGen Ltd is a prime example. Based in Christchurch, the business evolved out of a PhD project initiated by Dr Don Clucas in 1989 involving the development of a commercially viable Stirling engine. With a successful prototype completed, Whisper Tech Ltd. was formed in 1995 to provide a vehicle for the on-going development, manufacture and distribution of AC Micro Combined Heat and Power (microCHP) and DC Marine / Power Systems. Whisper Tech Ltd. now holds the intellectual property which is exclusively licensed to the trading company WhisperGen Ltd. Initially the company focused on developing the DC WhisperGenTM for the marine market. The quiet and efficient DC WhisperGenTM was an instant hit with yachties, who had been forced to depend on noisy, smelly and environmentally unfriendly diesel generators for their power. By establishing their credentials in the marine market, WhisperGenTM was then able to push forward into the higher volume, lower margin consumer market with the AC WhisperGenTM. Designed to replace gas-fired home boiler systems, this co-generation (heat and power) system was developed primarily for the European market.
As small as a dishwasher, the AC WhisperGenTM is capable of h eating and powering a house whilst also potentially producing excess electricity that can be returned to the grid. Utilising a range of different low cost fuels, the system has huge environmental benefits, primarily the reduction of CO2 emissions e.g. a typical UK home can save 1-2 tonnes of CO2 per year. With the potential for massive environmental savings, various European governments and utility organisations have been keen to get alongside WhisperGen Ltd, and the company has already been commissioned by one UK utility company for 1,000 units, with a further commitment for up to 80,000 units over the next four years Supported by two major shareholders, Meridian Energy and Orion New Zealand (formerly Southpower), WhisperGen Ltd. is bullish when it comes to the future. Manufacture of components is outsourced, leaving the company free to focus on R&D and the establishment of offshore markets. Massive growth within Europe has the potential to create the need to establish manufacturing facilities closer to the distribution point, however the company is determined to maintain it’s Christchurch base. With a purpose built facility and around 130 staff, the company are keen to ensure that 'Kiwi ingenuity' continues to drive all aspects of development and growth.
The company’s involvement with Heat Treatments has centred around treating parts for various prototypes (specifically bearings) and the hardening and grinding of parts (con-rod pins / thrust washers) for the AC and DC WhisperGen’sTM. According to Technical Director, Dr Don Clucas, a key reason for working with Heat Treatments is their willingness to help and the fact that they are recognised as leaders in their field. “Heat Treatments has been happy to work with us on various prototypes and the assistance of their Lab and manufacturing teams has been invaluable. Unlike other organisations who are only focussed on ‘big orders’, Heat Treatments seem happy to work alongside smaller companies like ours, with the view to helping us grow,” says Don. For more information on WhisperGenTM visit www.whispergen.com
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KIWI INGENUITY STRIKES AGAIN
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