Evolution of absorption technology: from its origins to high-efficiency heat pumps

Absorption technology has undergone decades of development, evolving from the first gas-fired absorption chillers to today’s high-efficiency absorption heat pumps. A technology capable of combining combustion, renewable energy sources and system innovation, it has secured a strategic role in the heating and cooling of residential, commercial and industrial buildings.

Tracing its key milestones helps to understand how current solutions have emerged and the contribution Robur has made to the development of increasingly efficient and reliable systems.

The origins of absorption technology

The modern history of absorption technology begins in the late 1960s with the first gas-fired absorption chillers, most notably the ACC model promoted by ARKLA (Arkansas Louisiana Gas Company). These units, widely adopted between 1968 and 1991, represent the first large-scale application of gas-driven absorption refrigeration cycles.

1991: Robur enters the absorption technology market

In 1991, Robur Corporation acquired gas-fired absorption chiller technology from Dometic (Electrolux). This marked the beginning of an industrial development path that would lead to solutions increasingly focused on energy efficiency and long-term reliability.

The 1990s: improving performance and reliability

During the 1990s, the technology evolved with the introduction of the ACF absorption chiller, which significantly improved performance compared to previous models. The objective was to increase efficiency and make these solutions better suited to continuous operation in professional applications.

2002: the first GAHP absorption heat pumps

The year 2002 marked a turning point with the introduction of the first GAHP-W LB absorption heat pumps. For the first time, absorption technology was systematically applied to space heating, achieving efficiencies higher than traditional boilers and, in many applications, higher than electric heat pumps.

2004–2005: heating, cooling and DHW in a single solution

With the launch of GAHP-A units and ACF-HR absorption chillers, absorption technology expanded to include the combined production of heating, cooling and domestic hot water. The GAHP-GS and GAHP-WS versions further extended application possibilities, achieving very high overall efficiencies thanks to the integration of multiple functions.

Modularity, condensation and system integration

From 2008 onwards, modular solutions and condensing versions were introduced, enhancing design flexibility and adaptability to varying thermal loads. In 2014, integrated systems were developed and designed to simplify the design and installation of complex systems.

The latest solutions: absorption technology and renewable energy sources

In 2016, Robur introduced the K18 heat pump, a world first combining gas operation with renewable aerothermal energy for detached and semi-detached villas residential applications. This solution represents one of the most advanced stages in the evolution of absorption technology, bringing together sustainability, reliability and high performance.

A mature technology that continues to evolve

Today, absorption technology is a mature solution, successfully applied in a wide range of residential, commercial and industrial contexts. Its evolution continues, driven by the need to reduce energy consumption, maximise the use of renewable energy sources and deliver efficient systems even in increasingly complex energy scenarios.