JOULIA Objectives

The main objective of JOULIA is to design, manufacture, implement and demonstrate new highly-efficient electromagnetic heating systems (i.e. induction and microwave) for medium-high temperature processes (100- 500ºC) and ensure a higher system flexibility to cope with the fluctuation of renewable energies, aiming to reduce dependence on conventional fossil fuel-based processes and achieve fully decarbonised heating processes.

The specific goals that will enable the achievement of the JOULIA main objective include:

Development of electrified heating technologies

JOULIA aims to develop highly efficient and safe electric technologies and equipment that replace fossil based heating systems in process and energy-intensive industries.

Enhancement of flexibility and safety using digital tools

JOULIA aims to develop and implement digital tools to improve the electric processes flexibility and to increase their safety and reliability with predictive maintenance.

Validation and demonstration

JOULIA aims to carry out a complete validation and demonstration program up to TRL 7 of the advanced electric heating technologies in 2 different industrial demosites.

Replication roadmap for large-scale deployment

JOULIA aims to establish a roadmap for the replication of JOULIA solutions, considering economic viability, as well as the technical and regulatory obstacles in a largescale deployment.

Communication, dissemination, and exploitation strategy

JOULIA aims to assure a successful communication, dissemination and exploitation of the project, through strategic and business-oriented commercialisation plans.

JOULIA Methodology

The methodology of the project is structured across several phases, each designed to systematically address the development, integration, and scaling-up of the technologies in industrial settings.

Process characterisation and data gathering

Key information about energy use, material properties, and process flexibility is collected at demonstration sites.
Existing heating prototypes and market opportunities are analysed, and performance indicators are set to guide the project’s progress.

Design and engineering of JOULIA solutions

Using data from Phase 1, detailed designs for induction and microwave heating solutions are created, along with the development of technical specifications. These efforts ensure alignment with end-user needs while also producing an alpha version of the JOULIA software tools.

Manufacturing and integration of solutions

The heating technologies are manufactured and tested in controlled settings to ensure performance, safety, and stability. Pre-industrial trials help refine the systems, while software tools are adjusted to support the processes. The technologies are then installed and integrated into operational environments.

Demonstration at operational environments

The developed solutions are tested under real industrial conditions.
Their performance is monitored to ensure they meet the defined indicators. A governing board oversees the demonstrations to address risks and optimise operations.

Evaluation of impact and replication strategy

The project’s results are assessed to identify their impact, scalability, and potential for replication in other industries. Recommendations for market opportunities, funding, and future research are made. Key stakeholders are engaged to support the widespread adoption of the solutions, and business models are developed for commercialisation.