“An Alternative for Demanding Applications”

Filling up as usual: It only takes a few minutes at the fueling station to give a hydrogen vehicle its full range. © Alamy/imageBROKER/Jochen Eckel

High-tech Sealing Materials Are Available  

“The selection of the sealing material is crucial,” Möller said. “We not only have very broad knowledge of materials but also have the high-tech materials for hydrogen applications available.” As in the case of traditional internal combustion engines, the company is using its wide-ranging expertise to help perfect the new hydrogen engines, he added. “The first step is reliable operation. In parallel, engine developers are improving efficiency to make their fuel consumption as low as possible.”

The U.S. company, Cummins, is one of the world’s largest engine manufacturers and has already exhibited the B6.7H hydrogen engine. It generates 216 kilowatts (290 horsepower) and 1,200 newton-meters from a displacement of 6.7 liters. Cummins says the assembly is based on a completely new engine platform to optimize power density, frictional losses, and thermal efficiency. As a result, the engine offers the same performance as a comparable diesel engine and is completely compatible with its existing drivetrain, transmission and cooling system. Another B6.7H advantage is that it is much quieter.

As a test, the hydrogen engine has been installed in a standard truck in the 10- to 26-ton gross-vehicle-weight-class commonly used in distribution. There is no difference in road performance, payload, or cargo space. Maintenance and the costs associated with it are comparable to diesel engines. Cummins says the solution is a cost-effective technology to drive the decarbonization of the transport sector. Its concept truck stores the hydrogen in two 700-bar, high-pressure tanks, giving it a range of up to 500 kilometers (311 miles) – enough for typical every day operations and more than the range for a comparable truck with a battery-electric drive. The two tanks can be refilled in just 10 minutes. Cummins is also working on its X15H hydrogen engine with a displacement of 15 liters for heavy commercial vehicles.

Stationary Use of Hydrogen Engines 

Hydrogen engines are also an important option for stationary equipment, Möller said. “Emergency generators are one example. The spectrum extends to very large versions with several megawatts of output for institutions such as hospitals, airports, and data centers.” The lifespan of these large engines is 20 to 30 years, and seals must maintain their function over that time.

“Our customers see Freudenberg Sealing Technologies as an innovation partner. As we advise them, we draw on our in-depth knowledge of seals, including materials, designs, and production processes. We continually invest in research and development as well, to further improve the performance and lifespan of our seals,” he said. This includes research into new materials and production processes to meet rising requirements. “That’s how to get the best possible results and advance hydrogen technology,” Möller concluded.