Daimler Truck and Linde Engineering have recently unveiled a collaborative achievement: subcooled liquid hydrogen (sLH2) refueling technology. This advancement, according to the two companies, promises enhanced storage density, extended range, quicker refueling, reduced expenses, and superior energy efficiency compared to gaseous hydrogen in the realm of hydrogen-powered vehicles.
In Daimler truck’s press release, the truck company explains that in contrast to conventional liquid hydrogen (LH2) refueling methods, their new approach employs an innovative subcooled liquid hydrogen (sLH2) pump to marginally raise the liquid hydrogen's pressure, resulting in sLH2. This state of hydrogen enables a robust refueling process with minimized energy losses. Notably, no data transmission between the refueling station and the vehicle is required, simplifying the solution even further. Concurrently, refueling capacity reaches new heights; the pilot refueling station can manage 400 kg of liquid hydrogen per hour. Compared to conventional liquid or gaseous hydrogen refueling strategies, sLH2 offers enhanced simplicity alongside improved performance.
“Subcooled liquid hydrogen considerably increases the efficiency of hydrogen refueling systems. The required investment is reduced by a factor of two to three, and operational costs are five to six times lower. This and further advantages make sLH2 a practical, CO2-neutral alternative to diesel in the heavy-duty vehicle sector. The technology we have developed with Daimler Truck will help pave the way for the development of a robust refueling network, which is essential to keep vehicles moving and supply chains intact.”
This advancement enables Daimler’s Mercedes-Benz GenH2 heavy-duty truck to replenish with 79 kilograms of liquid hydrogen within approximately 10 to 15 minutes, providing a range exceeding 1,000 km. Additionally, the companies assert that the investment needed for sLH2 hydrogen refueling stations is two to three times less, with operational expenses reduced by five to six times.
The world’s first sLH2 refueling station was unveiled in Wörth am Rhein, Germany. This station boasts an energy consumption rate of 0.05 kWh/kg. Daimler and Linde emphasize that this figure is roughly 30 times lower than the energy demand of conventional gaseous hydrogen refueling stations. Additionally, selected logistics clients will utilize the sLH2 station for initial customer trials featuring the Mercedes-Benz GenH2 Truck starting in mid-2024.
Hydrogen trucks are not yet on the horizon for the Philippines, but advancements like these are exciting developments that show the viability of hydrogen as an alternative sustainable energy source. If electric commercial vehicles are slowly trickling into the country, then maybe hydrogen trucks can carve their own spot in the Philippines as well.
Speaking of trucks, you can check out a diverse selection of trucks and other commercial vehicles on TruckDeal.com.ph. Make the search for your next business partner easier by browsing the TruckDeal truck guide.
