What We Do
The Applied Thermofluid Process Modelling (ATProM) Research Unit tackles some of the most pressing energy challenges of our time: rising demand, climate change, and the need for cleaner, more efficient technologies.
Our research focuses on thermofluid systems - the backbone of nearly all energy conversion processes, from power generation to heating and cooling. These systems rely on key components like turbines, compressors, heat exchangers, pumps, and reactors, all of which interact through the principles of thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and heat and mass transfer.
We specialise in modelling these components and systems to:
- Evaluate emerging technologies
- Improve efficiency and control
- Enable real-time condition monitoring
Whether dealing with gases, liquids, or complex two-phase flows, our goal is to understand and optimise how energy moves, transforms, and performs.
Our Vision
To advance knowledge and tools in thermofluid process modelling that improve the flexibility, availability, and efficiency of industrial energy systems.
Our Mission
- Develop advanced models, simulation techniques, and machine learning tools for system design, optimisation, and diagnostics
- Train the next generation of engineers through postgraduate research, specialist diplomas, and curriculum development
- Collaborate with industry and academia to bridge theory and real-world application
What Sets Us Apart
- Strong partnerships with industry and academic peers
- Direct access to software developers and deep technical expertise
- A unique blend of physics-based modelling and machine learning
- Access to cutting-edge computing facilities, both in-house and via the CHPC
- A postgraduate diploma focused on power plant engineering, aligned with our research goals
Our Story
Founded in 2017, ATProM was created to host the Energy Efficiency stream of the Eskom Power Plant Engineering Institute (EPPEI). Early work centred on coal-fired power plants, with a strong emphasis on modelling the Rankine water-steam cycle - relevant to over 90% of South Africa’s large-scale plants. Since then, we’ve expanded our scope and expertise to support the global energy transition, applying our methods to:
- Biomass-fired boilers
- Supercritical CO₂ (sCO₂) power cycles
- Thermal CSP technologies
- Open cycle gas turbines
Our primary tool, Flownex®, was co-developed by local collaborators and remains central to our work. We now integrate advanced CFD via Ansys Fluent, Python-based optimisation, and machine learning to develop fast, accurate, and flexible solutions for a sustainable energy future.