LG Electronics Supplies 108°C Industrial Heat Pump to South Korean Paper Mill

LG Electronics has expanded its industrial heat pump business by supplying a large-capacity, high-temperature heat pump system to paper manufacturer Ajin P&P in Daegu, with commercial operations beginning earlier this month.

The installation marks part of a national research and development project led by South Korea's Ministry of Trade, Industry and Resources to support the country's 2050 carbon neutrality goal. The initiative has involved 15 industry, academic, and research organizations, including LG Electronics, since 2023.

According to LG Electronics, the new industrial heat pump increases outlet water temperatures from the previous industry level of around 90°C to 108°C, with a maximum temperature of 118°C. High-temperature water above 100°C is required for industrial applications including paper drying, food sterilization, and chemical and refining processes.

Unlike conventional fossil fuel-based heating systems, industrial heat pumps use electricity and recover waste heat, helping reduce carbon emissions and energy consumption. LG Electronics said the system incorporates its proprietary large-capacity oil-free magnetic bearing technology, eliminating the need for lubricating oil, reducing maintenance requirements, and lowering electricity costs. The unit also uses a refrigerant with a low global warming potential.

The company said it is expanding its industrial heat pump business in response to growing market demand. Previous deployments include an industrial water-source heat pump supplied to COEX in 2024 and an industrial heat pump for district heating supplied to Danish energy company Ørsted in 2025. LG Electronics is also pursuing projects in North America and Europe, including the United States, Canada, Norway, and Finland.

According to market research firm MarketsandMarkets, the global industrial heat pump market is projected to reach US$4.8 billion by 2026.

LG Electronics said it plans to strengthen its heat pump portfolio across residential, commercial, and industrial applications. The company was also recently selected as the preferred bidder for the 2026 Jeju Heat Pump Distribution Project promoted by South Korea's Ministry of Climate, Energy and Environment and the Jeju Special Self-Governing Province.