SwRI's £13M HEAT Facility Upgrade Revolutionizes Gas Turbine Testing

Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) has completed a major upgrade to its High Energy Annex Test (HEAT) facility. The three-year project enhances the centre’s ability to test next-generation turbines under realistic conditions. The improvements support stricter environmental and efficiency standards for gas turbine development. SwRI invested over £13 million in 2025 to fund the HEAT facility’s modernisation. A key addition was a new high-capacity air compressor, tripling the site’s airflow and pressure capabilities. This allows for more demanding tests of combustion systems.

The upgraded facility now supports continuous combustor testing. This enables precise evaluations of durability, emissions, and performance. It can also switch seamlessly between fuel types, from natural gas to synthetic alternatives.

Additive manufacturing has played a major role in the upgrades. The technology reduces the cost of combustion rigs by 80%. It also allows engineers to explore new geometries and materials for better combustion efficiency. The HEAT facility now offers advanced testing for gas turbine combustors. Its enhanced capabilities help developers meet tougher environmental and efficiency targets. The upgrades position SwRI at the forefront of turbine research and innovation.