Katrix’s technology is based on a novel mechanism that generates “limaçon” motion with in-built fluid expansion and compression characteristics. The versatility of this mechanism has been demonstrated through the manufacture of a number of working prototypes of pumps, compressors, expanders and an internal combustion engine. The company was founded by the inventor and a business partner in 2002 to develop and commercialise this technology.

Subsequent milestones include:

• 2003 Jul - 100 CFM air compressor was independently manufactured and tested. Its performance was characterised and showed its potential to be developed into an alternative class of compressor that could better satisfy current and emerging market needs than can current compressor technologies
• 2003 Aug - Katrix files patent on the mechanism
• 2004 Jan - Katrix obtains COMET (Commercializing Emerging Technology) Federal Government grant
• 2004 Sep - Private equity was attracted to commence staffed operations to develop and commercialise products
• 2005 Apr - Major independent scientific organization tests a small 100cc (displacement per revolution) air motor to evaluate the technology’s potential in microCHP applications
• 2005 Dec - Katrix wins $0.8m Federal Government Renewable Energy Development Initiative (REDI) grant
• 2005 Dec - Katrix’s 600cc motor using compressed air produced 19 kW, 150 Nm, at 1,200 RPM at a pressure differential of 19 Bar, which represents world leading efficiency for a device of its small size. This torque is comparable to a 1.6L, four cylinder piston engines operating at 1500 RPM.
• 2006 Mar - Katrix tests its100cc expander with steam producing 1.6Kw of power at 1500 RPM with 7 bar pressure
• 2006 Jun - Katrix successfully tests its 600cc motor with low pressure, saturated steam