Mechatronics student Michiel Vrijsen completed his graduation project at Weheat in 2021. “I was especially interested in mechanics and found a project in that field. It was still a small company. I stayed after graduating and watched it grow enormously.” His first subsequent project was Butterfly, the hood protecting Blackbird’s fan from falling leaves. “I researched airflow optimisation, crucial because it directly affects COP. Afterwards, development began on Weheat’s second heat pump, Sparrow. I was involved from the start.”

“We do it together. Especially before a deadline, you feel everyone pulling in the same direction.”

Innovative dampers for a quiet heat pump

For Sparrow, Michiel analysed and reduced vibrations. “Sparrow and Blackbird have EPP casings in contact with the compressor. We place dampers where the unit connects to the outside world, such as a roof. This lets it vibrate freely while the right dampers reduce vibration transfer into the roof.” Finding the best material was an interesting puzzle: soft enough to absorb vibration, firm enough to prevent excessive movement. “Otherwise residents call in strong winds because their heat pump is moving up and down.”

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Michiel especially values the team atmosphere. “We do it together. When a deadline requires a sprint, everyone pulls together.” He also appreciates the responsibility employees receive.

“You largely decide how to approach a project. Start with simulations or calculations? Those decisions are mostly yours; delivering quality is what matters. The results speak for themselves: we make unique heat pumps here in Duizel.”

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