Polar Technology, Moog Controls to develop H2 storage solution

Composite and metallic technology business Polar Technology Management Group Ltd. (Eynsham, U.K.) has developed a novel concept in hydrogen storage and is working with Moog Controls (Elma, N.Y., U.S.), a designer, manufacturer and integrator of precision control components and systems, to develop an integrated hydrogen storage and management solution termed “Hydrogen in a Box.” The system benefits are based around optimal packaging efficiency, gravimetric efficiency, and the ability to integrate valves and control systems into one optimized solution.

A 6-month-long technology evaluation process has been completed and test hardware will now be manufactured. The design has been evaluated as Type III and Type IV pressure vessel versions for 350- and 700-bar applications.

“There are so many opportunities for innovation, optimization and integration,” Kieran Burley, lead engineer at Polar Technology, says. “Combining novel design solutions along with innovative manufacturing processes, we can package hydrogen storage efficiently in a series of co-dependent chambers forming a storage bank, rather than fitting a number of standard independent cylinders into the space.”

According to Mark Lawton, Moog’s general manager of the Aircraft Control Components Division, “It has been great for Moog to collaborate with Polar in providing novel methods to efficiently store and release hydrogen in mission-critical environments. This project is an integral part of Moog’s commitment to develop future green technology for commercial air travel.”

The joint project will establish an appropriate specification and set of system level requirements for hydrogen storage and delivery systems for aircraft and other industrial applications.