HAP 0921

INTEGRATED SYSTEMS 40 HYDRAULICS & PNEUMATICS September 2021 www.hpmag.co.uk Racing towards the fuel cells of the future The science behind modern fuel cells is simple enough. However, creating products on a commercial scale is a considerable challenge. Each application has specific requirements, from static power plants to automotive and aviation, the process of developing benchtop concepts into cost- effective production models requires expert knowledge and engineering skill. Focus on fuel cells Increasing pressure to decarbonise our environment and move away from fossil fuels has led to an increased focus on renewable energy as well as fuel cells, which offer an effective power source without harmful emissions. The diverse range of uses for fuel cells is matched by the designs required to integrate them with their applications. In the terms of unit volumes, the number of stationary power supplies has remained steady over the past five years, with a gradual increase for transport applications. However, looking at the data for power output, the delivery of fuel cells in transport applications has grown rapidly over the same period. This has been supported by an improving infrastructure for hydrogen, which will be essential for sustained growth.(1) As manufacturers look to embrace fuel cell technology and deliver solutions for more applications, there is a need for greater development capacity. The process of identifying the most suitable fuel cell chemistry and creating a working prototype can be complex and time-consuming. Proof of concept The components required to build a bench-top proof of concept will have some common features with the finished design, but there is a need for greater data collection and variation of parameters. The initial design stages need visibility and control of mass flow, pressure and temperature associated with gases and water. The variety of sensors as well as valves used during design development and testing will be essentially the same as the prototype, but their form, size and weight will be considerably altered for the final build. It is this dramatic difference between concept and prototype that requires considerable expertise and knowledge to deliver project expectations. Furthermore, the goals of a proof of concept are substantially different to those of the finished article, which demands a minimal footprint, optimized efficiency and high performance. Depending on the application and the fuel cell chemistry, cooling circuits may be needed. In bench-top trials, this heat can The global focus on reducing our carbon footprint is challenging engineers and scientists to explore alternative power sources and develop them into viable products that can be integrated into everyday lives. The recent increase in electric vehicles is just the start; fuel cell technology is progressing quickly, but the design and integration of new components requires considerable expertise. Tony Brennan, field segment manager gas & micro, Bürkert Fluid Control Systems UK & Ireland, looks at how this innovative technology will progress and what it takes to develop concepts and prototypes. Bürkert’s Systemhaus network assigns a dedicated team of experts in design, materials and the specific industry to see the project through from cradle to launch.