Trade fair guide for Hannover Messe 2024

AI and hydrogen are the focus of this year’s Hannover Messe. H2‑international’s trade fair preview is showing what’s new to see at the Hannover Messe and especially Hydrogen + Fuel Cells Europe.

The transformation of industry towards climate neutrality is gaining more and more momentum. Which is why the decarbonization of industry is also at the center of interest at this year’s Hannover Messe. The energy industry has a crucial role to play in this. The transformation is based on two drivers: artificial intelligence (AI) and hydrogen. Because it is clear that a climate-neutral industry without a hydrogen economy is inconceivable.

Advertisements

Over 500 exhibitors on the topic of hydrogen will be represented at Hannover Messe 2024. Most of them in the context of the Hydrogen + Fuel Cells Europe fair in Hall 13. Also this year’s partner country, Norway, with its motto “Pioneering the Green Industrial Transition,” is putting carbon-neutral production and new digital solutions in focus at its hydrogen pavilion (Stand D30). Likewise under the banner of the hydrogen economy is the Norwegian-German energy conference “Renewable Dialogue – North Sea Energy Hub,” which will take place in the Convention Center April 23, 2024. This conference particularly aims to concretize business models of the H₂ economy. Hydrogen is also a central component of the All Electric Society Arena. This arena is directly connected to the ZVEI stand in the middle of Hall 11, Stand B58.

What products, services and business models the hydrogen economy already offers today will be shown by exhibitors of Hydrogen + Fuel Cells Europe. Important players and innovations H2‑international is introducing in this trade fair preview.

Fuel cell technology

Proton Motor Fuel Cell GmbH is presenting at the Hydrogen + Fuel Cells Europe its fuel cell system HyModule S4. It is conceived for stationary applications in residential buildings and small industrial complexes and as an emergency or off-grid power supply. The device offers a lower power range of 4.1 kW_el and an output voltage range of 28 to 55 VDC. The H₂ supply pressure is 1.5 to 7 bar. The HyModule S4 uses the liquid-cooled FC technology HyStack 200 from Proton Motor and can be used in an ambient temperature of 5 to 40 °C.

Fig. 2: The FC system HyModule S4 for stationary applications, Source: Proton Motor, Proton Motor, Halle 13, Stand E34

The automotive group Honda is coming to Hannover with the prototype of its new fuel cell module. The module is designed for H₂ cars, commercial vehicles, construction machinery and stationary power generators. The fuel cell in compact dimensions has a high output power and a fast start-up time, even in environments with low temperatures. For use in heavy-duty commercial vehicles, Honda has already begun, together with Isuzu Motors, to test the fuel cell drive of the next generation. A prototype is already out on public roads. The launch of a series model is planned for 2027.

Fig. 3: The FC module FCS-26 from Honda is also suitable as a clean and quiet emergency power source, Source: Honda
Honda, Halle 13, Stand C56

SFC Energy, manufacturer of hydrogen and methanol fuel cells, has expanded the performance class of its mobile solution Efoy H2Genset. The mobile solution is intended as an alternative to conventional diesel generators. It can be used for a multitude of applications, e.g. on construction sites, at events, at festivals and in remote locations with temporary power requirements.

Fig. 4: Mobile fuel cell device for use on construction sites or at festivals, Source: SFC Energy, SFC Energy, Halle 13, Stand C04

Ballard Power Systems does not have its own presence at this year’s Hannover Messe. However, the company is part of a Canadian delegation participating in a joint presentation of over 300 exhibitors from 25 countries in the field of hydrogen and fuel cell technology. Currently, there are nearly 4,000 trucks and buses worldwide driven with fuel cells from Ballard (see also p. 61). The fuel cells are also used in several hydrogen ships, trains and hydrogen projects with global partners. At the Hannover Messe, Ballard will be temporarily represented in the Canadian pavilion by an expert in fuel cell technology.

Ballard Power, Halle 13, Stand D40

Hydrogen supply

AEG Power Solutions equips hydrogen plants with direct current supply systems. The company’s electrolyzer power supply is designed to provide stable current and power over a wide voltage range. It is suitable for the production of green hydrogen with fluctuating renewable energy sources, as these electrolyzer converters offer high DC dynamics and high efficiency in terms of grid conformity, even in partial load operation. To reduce space requirements, installation time and costs, AEG Power Solutions offers scalable plug & play solutions. These solutions can comprise up to eight DC-3 modules in parallel, which deliver up to 16 MW, 1,500 VDC and 25.6 kADC.

Fig. 5: The plug & play electrolyzer power supply comprises up to eight DC-3 modules, Source: AEG Power Solutions
AEG Power Solutions, Halle 13, Stand B45

The company Siqens has developed an electrochemical hydrogen separation technology (EHS). In contrast to the electrolysis of water, the company wants to use it to produce hydrogen from biogas, methanol or methane. According to the manufacturer, the EHS process also allows the separation of hydrogen from natural deposits. Another application is the separation of hydrogen that will be transported via the natural gas grid.

Fig. 6: The EcoCabinet from Siqens, Source: Siqens, Siqens, Halle 2, Stand A42

Fuel cell and electrolyzer components

The new humidifier HumidiPower from Pentair is designed for PEM fuel cells. It acts as a heat and moisture exchanger. According to the manufacturer, the device has a patented, spiral-wound hollow fiber design, to ensure efficient moisture transfer to air and other gases. A low pressure drop should minimize energy consumption. The moisture removed from the exhaust gas of the fuel cell is reused in the purge gas.

Fig. 7: The HumidiPower ensures sufficient moisture in the PEM fuel cell, Source: Pentair, Pentair, Halle 13, Stand F46

Parker Hannifin is showcasing the latest developments in the field of fuel cell technology at its stand. At an interactive table, visitors can take a look inside an electrolyzer receptacle and search for Parker components in it. New is the horizontal gas filter Peach Gemini PuraSep. The filter contains two stages and two drums each. The upper drum is used to separate solids and liquids, while the lower drum collects the liquid. Some of the solids flow into the lower drum below the first stage, but most of the solids collect on the elements and on the bottom of the upper barrel of the first stage. Likewise new is a humidifier for FC vehicles and the H70-08-HRS hoses for H₂ applications.

Fig. 8: At an interactive table, visitors can take a look inside an electrolyzer receptacle and search for Parker components in it
Source: Parker Hannifin, Parker Hannifin, Halle 13, Stand C55

Fischer Fuel Cell Compressor from Switzerland manufactures air compressors for fuel cell systems. Their special storage technology should then enable high performance and efficiency even when the fuel cell system is operating at high altitudes. Therefore, in addition to the classic FC applications in vehicles, trains, ships or stationary units, the compressors also have a place in aviation. The devices are not only in test mode, but are also in flight operation for several hours at a time. The company has also expanded its annual production capacity to 5,000 units.

Fig. 9: Compressors from Fischer are also suitable for aviation, Source: Fischer Fuel Cell Compressor
Fischer Fuel Cell Compressor, Halle 13, Stand E46

Also the Danish specialist for FC compressors Rotrex is presenting a new air compressor. The EK40CT-2429 has an additional turbine/expander unit. This new compressor should be suitable for stationary, maritime and aerial applications with large fuel cell stacks with up to 400‑kW output power.

Fig. 10: The new fuel cell compressor from Rotrex, Source: Rotrex, Rotrex, Halle 13, Stand C15

The Swiss company Celeroton Fuel Cell is developing and producing ultrahigh-speed turbo compressors and drive systems for fuel cell applications. All FC compressors from Celeroton are equipped with their own developed gas bearings that should enable high efficiency, oil-free operation and a long service life. With the CTi-1100, the company presents the second generation of the turbo compressor with integrated inverter for intralogistics, range extenders, stationary systems and drones. Likewise new is the CTi-2001 with integrated 80‑V inverter, conceived for intralogistics and off-road applications.

In addition, Celeroton Fuel Cell is expanding its product palette for applications with high power ranges. The new turbo compressor CTE-4000 in conjunction with the inverter CC-4000 should provide the air supply for fuel cells with a net output of 100 to 200 kW. The new system will be equipped with an optional turbine expander and several aerodynamic variants.

Fig. 11: Turbo compressor with 100 to 200 kW net output, Source: Celeroton Fuel Cell, Celeroton, Halle 13, Stand D49

PDC Machines from the USA produces membrane compression systems and hydrogen compressors. Via the new online portal MyPDCMachines.com, customers can manage a digital operation twin of their installed PDC system. The portal offers access to important information, like the device status, recommended maintenance schedules, operation reports, service history, handbooks and data sheets. In addition, it enables the ordering of replacement parts. New is also a “PDC Toolbox,” which should help customers in the service or maintenance of PDC compressors.

Fig. 12: Access by QR code to the online portal MyPDCMachines, Source: PDC Machines, PDC Machines, Halle 13, Stand E50/2

The gas analysis specialist Archigas from Rüsselsheim is presenting a novel measuring technology for humidity-independent H₂ detection. For it, the company, in cooperation with the university Hochschule Rhein-Main, newly implemented the thermal conductivity measurement principle and combined it with semiconductor technology. With under 30 milliseconds, the new sensor from Archigas should exhibit an especially high reaction speed. If condensation comes in contact with the sensors for gas analysis, this usually leads to their immediate destruction. As a consequence, water can appear in the various places of the H₂ process chain, security gaps can result and high costs can accrue. The special construction of the measuring module should therefore effectively combat a contact of condensate with the sensory units.

Fig. 13: As hydrogen is highly reactive, a detection over the whole process chain should be followed in real time
Source: Archigas, Archigas, Halle 13, Stand C16

Hydrogen refueling pumps

This year, Maximator Hydrogen is introducing its newest generation of hydrogen refueling pumps. The Max Dispenser 1.5 has a multimedia display with touch function, microphone, loudspeaker and NFC reader for direct payment. This enables users to receive precise refueling instructions and see the filling status of their vehicle. At the same time, the display serves as an interface to 24/7 support, which is always available to answer users’ questions.

Thanks to the built-in tilt detection, the dispenser is set to a safe state in dangerous situations, like for example impact with a vehicle. The H₂ inflow is stopped, the relief valve is opened and the dispenser is de-energized. The dispenser can fill cars and heavy-duty vehicles with 700 bar or 350 bar.

Fig. 14: Thanks to the built-in tilt detection, the dispenser is set to a safe state in hazardous situations
Source: Maximator Hydrogen, Maximator Hydrogen, Halle 13, Stand C26

Also Linde is introducing a new hydrogen refueling pump at the Hydrogen + Fuel Cells Europe. The HyQ-Dispenser should offer high performance in H₂ refueling. It is also said to be energy-efficient, very quiet and optimized for maintenance work.

Fig. 15: Card payment at the new Linde hydrogen refueling pump, Source: Linde, Linde, Halle 13, Stand D55/1

Components for hydrogen refueling pumps

Norgren under its brand Buschjost now offers H₂ high-pressure solenoid valves with FM-approved coils for the North American market. The company can now serve customers who are building hydrogen refueling stations or hydrogen storage facilities for Korea, China, Europe or the USA. The valves are designed for a pressure of up to 1,050 bar.

New are also oxygen solenoid valves and regulators that the company has developed specifically in accordance with industrial gas standards for electrolysis applications. In addition, the company offers electric high-pressure proportional regulators for hydrogen refueling pumps.

Fig. 16: High-pressure solenoid valve with FM-approved coils for the North American market
Source: Norgren, Norgren, Halle 13, Stand E13

Also Eugen Seitz from Switzerland is coming to Hannover with a new solenoid high-pressure valve for hydrogen applications. The valve has an integrated position indicator, which should ensure optimum system status information.

Fig. 17: The new H₂ solenoid high-pressure valve with position indicator, Source: SeitzValve, Eugen Seitz, Halle 13, Stand D50

Bürkert is putting in focus with its trade fair appearance the new coil technology “Kick and Drop.” This technology is said to achieve energy savings of up to 80 percent in valves, 45 K less self-heating and 200 percent more switching pressure compared to conventional coils. The Kick-and-Drop coil is equipped with a double winding of an inrush and holding winding. In Kick-and-Drop electronics, the coil is excited by a high electric impulse. This generates the required inrush power that the valve needs to open. After around 500 milliseconds, the Kick-and-Drop electronics switch to an energy-saving holding mode. With this, the power consumption is drastically reduced.

Fig. 18: Kick-and-Drop coil from Bürkert, Source: Bürkert, Bürkert, Halle 13, Stand C30

Research

The German aerospace center for technical thermodynamics (DLR-Institut für Technische Thermodynamik) will be represented at the Hydrogen + Fuel Cells Europe with its departments for energy system integration and electrochemical energy technology. The institute develops electrochemical reactors based on proton ceramics. Proton ceramic fuel cells are operated at temperatures between 400 and 600 °C. The electrode configuration separates the vapor supply from the hydrogen production and thus prevents a dilution of the two streams. These novel cells are versatile: They can supply electrochemically compressed hydrogen, they can enable the protonation of molecules such as CO or CO₂ into valuable raw materials, and they can additionally be used as conventional fuel cells for energy supply.

In the PtX-Wind partial project of H2Mare, the DLR is researching the offshore production of green hydrogen and power-to-X products. At the trade fair, the research institute is also introducing the transportable platform XPlore. This serves to investigate various electrolysis technologies in combination with different synthesis technologies.

Fig. 19: The transportable platform XPlore serves for offshore tests, Source: DLR (based on CAD from TUB-EBMS)
DLR, Halle 13, Stand B36

The ZBT in Duisburg (Zentrum für BrennstoffzellenTechnik) is putting its focus on electrolysis and hydrogen derivatives at this year’s trade fair. The research institute is showing a model of an ammonia cracking reactor that was produced using 3D metal printing. A to-scale model of the associated cracker system for mobile applications will also be on display. The system was designed for a sailing yacht and now installed as part of a complete ammonia ship propulsion system in the sports yacht Ammonia Sherpa.

Fig. 20: Ammonia cracker system for use on a sailing yacht, Source: ZBT

The electrolysis division of the ZBT is presenting new precious metal-free membrane electrode units and introducing methods for the quality control of PEM electrolyzers. In the field of material qualification, the ZBT is demonstrating methods for the characterization and detection of damage phenomena on fuel cell components such as membrane electrode units or coatings on bipolar plates.
ZBT, Halle 13, Stand E40

Fraunhofer ISE is presenting a laboratory AEM electrolysis cell in Hannover. This is a further development of the PEM electrolysis cell design and will be used for the precise characterization and qualification of various components such as membranes, porous transport layers and catalysts. This happens at pressures of up to around 10 bar, increased current densities of over 5 A/cm² and under precise temperature control by an integrated heater. The institute also offers customers measurement services for PEM and AEM electrolyzers and an analysis of the measurement results, to identify opportunities to improve customer products.

A new design of membrane electrode assemblies (MEAs) for electrolysis and mobile fuel cells, manufactured using screen printing or slot die processes with commercially available materials, is also part of the trade fair presentation.

Fig. 21: New design of the MEA for electrolysis and mobile fuel cells, Source: Fraunhofer ISE
Fraunhofer ISE, Halle 13, Stand C41

At this year’s Hannover Messe, Fraunhofer IMM is introducing, at the Fraunhofer joint stand (Fraunhofer-Gemeinschafsstand), a compact system for ammonia splitting. This can be used for the decentralized supply of hydrogen, for example for hydrogen refueling stations. In maritime applications, such a system can supply fuel cells with hydrogen or supply ignitable “split gas” for ship engines.

The theme at the special exhibition area (Sonderausstellungsfläche) of the Hydrogen + Fuel Cells Europe is power-to-gas processes such as methanation in compact, microstructured reactors. In addition, Fraunhofer IMM is introducing reformer systems with which hydrogen carriers, like methanol, ethanol and synthetic hydrocarbons, can be used for hydrogen-based stationary and mobile energy supply. For these reformer systems, the institute is developing catalysts and catalytic coatings for microstructures.

Fig. 22: The ammonia and methanol-based systems for stationary and decentralized energy supply can be seen in Hall 2, Stand B24
Source: Fraunhofer IMM, Fraunhofer-Gemeinschafsstand, Halle 2, Stand B24, Fraunhofer IMM, Halle 13, Stand C47/1, Sonderausstellungsfläche

Machine building

The special machine manufacturer Graebener Maschinentechnik is presenting a press for the production of alkaline electrolyzer stacks. The pre-assembled stack consisting of bipolar plates is first inserted into the machine. There, it is compressed to a defined height until a certain pressure is reached within the stack. This pressure must then be maintained unchanged for several hours. During this time, the stack can be subjected to all the necessary technical tests with the help of other procedures.

The stack press for electrolyzers has a force of 800 metric tons and can accommodate stacks with a maximum height of around 3 m, a maximum diameter of 1.60 m and a weight of up to 12 tonnes. In order to be able to guarantee assembly work with maximum safety during operation, a hydraulic drive was deliberately dispensed with. Instead, the stack is compressed inside the press using six servomotor-driven spindle units. These are operated in synchronization mode and should therefore enable particularly homogeneous compression of the stack.

Fig. 23: The new stack press for electrolyzers, Source: Graebener Maschinentechnik, Graebener Maschinentechnik, Halle 13, Stand E42

The laser welding specialist AWL-Techniek Holding from the Netherlands develops laser welding equipment and complete production lines for bipolar plates. According to the manufacturer, the new laser micro-welding cell can achieve a focus of 0.052 mm and therefore weld at high speed. This enables the sophisticated welding of the wafer-thin bipolar plates.

Fig. 24: In the Experience Center, AWL has set up a test facility that also enables automated quality control of the bipolar plates
Source: AWL, AWL-Techniek, Halle 13, Stand F49

The Belgian company Borit specializes in forming, cutting, welding and sealing technologies required for the production of metal bipolar plates for fuel cells and interconnects for electrolyzers. The trend with bipolar plates, according to Borit, is ever thinner materials on the order of 50 to 100 micrometers, in order to save weight. Borit develops the right technologies for such materials.

Fig. 25: Bipolar plates from Borit, Source: Borit, Borit, Halle 13, Stand C19

Maceas, a 100-percent subsidiary of Worthmann Maschinenbau, focuses on helium leak testing in vacuum and under atmosphere as well as ultrasound gas bubble detection in water bath. The company is active in the areas of hydrogen, electrolysis, fuel cells and battery components as well as heat storage technology. In Hannover, the company is showing a new fully automated helium vacuum tightness testing system for metallic and graphitic bipolar plates.

Fig. 26: New system from Maceas for leak testing of bipolar plates, Source: Maceas GmbH, Maceas, Halle 13, Stand E53/1

Catalysts and membranes

Pajarito Powder has built a new production facility for catalysts in fuel cell and electrolyzer stacks at its headquarters in Albuquerque, New Mexico, USA. The company uses platinum-group metals in its catalysts to achieve high performance and good stability and durability. With the new production facility, Pajarito Powder has tripled the production volume for FC catalyst material and doubled its in-house production of catalysts for the generation of green hydrogen.

Fig. 27: New production plant for significantly higher capacity, Source: Pajarito Powder, Pajarito Powder, Halle 13, Stand A40

The Chinese manufacturer Anhui Contango New Energy Technology is showing in Hannover a large-format catalyst-coated membrane (CCM) on various PEM variants. The CCM should have a high current density and a low iridium and platinum content. Contango supplied around 20 MW of CCMs to large Chinese water electrolyzers last year. According to the provider, the product is also interesting for European customers.

Anhui Contango New Energy Technology, Halle 13, Stand A21

Carbon Energy Technology from China produces composite membranes. The company’s new product consists of an organic polymer, ceramic powder and a carrier material. The membranes are available in thicknesses of 200 and 500 µm. They are used for the alkaline electrolysis of water, as they can efficiently separate hydrogen and oxygen and allow the electrolyte to pass through.

Carbon Energy, Halle 13, Stand A42

System integrators, operators and consultants

H2Apex with headquarters in Rostock/Laage is based on three pillars: The company is active as a system integrator for turnkey hydrogen projects and mobility solutions. In addition, the company produces green hydrogen. The third pillar is the development and production of compressed gas storage systems for the temporary storage of hydrogen.

Fig. 28: Container with H₂ compressed gas storage tanks, Source: H2Apex, H2Apex, Halle 13, Stand E49

 The hydrogen core grid should be in operation by 2032. For this, natural gas pipelines are to be converted to hydrogen and new hydrogen pipelines are also to appear. German natural gas grid operator Ontras is contributing its starting grid H₂-Startnetz to the project. Among other things, it consists of the two IPCEI projects “Green Octopus Mitteldeutschland” and “Doing hydrogen.” With it, Ontras wants to lay the foundation for efficient and safe hydrogen transport in its grid area. The eastern German company is connecting via its infrastructure the whole German with the European network – the European Hydrogen Backbone. Via this, hydrogen produced in Scandinavia is to make its way to Germany.

Fig. 29: The Ontras H₂-Startnetz consists of the projects “Green Octopus Mitteldeutschland” and “Doing hydrogen”
Source: Ontras, Ontras, Halle 13, Stand D10

Siemens has expertise in the entire H₂ value chain. The company makes this expertise available to OEM manufacturers, general contractors and plant operators as well as governments and municipalities in the implementation of hydrogen projects. This starts with financing and continues with the concept design and construction through to the operation of hydrogen generation plants and PtX projects. Siemens sees its strengths in the areas of digitalization, automation and electrification.

Siemens, Halle 13, Stand C36

The consulting firm PGUB Management Consultants is being represented in Hannover at the joint stand Hzwo-Gemeinschaftsstand Sachsen. PGUB advises the Swedish fuel cell manufacturer FCT Sweden. Under the name Protonik GmbH, starting April, an independent hydrogen consulting company is to be active. This is likewise to be found at the Gemeinschaftsstand Sachsen and also at the stand for the energy agency of the state of Hessen (hessische Landesenergieagentur, LEA).

PGUB, Halle 13, Stand B46 (HZwo) and C16 (LEA)

Author: Dr. Jens Peter Meyer