Innovative Retrofit Technology Allows Micro-Turbines to Run on Hydrogen and Natural Gas
Key Ideas
- German Aerospace Center and Power Service Consulting develop retrofit technology enabling micro-turbines to operate on hydrogen, reducing costs and time significantly.
- Retrofitting existing gas turbines for hydrogen use is more cost-effective and time-efficient compared to building new gas turbine power plants, contributing to emission reduction.
- The innovative jet-stabilized burner design optimized for hydrogen improves combustion efficiency, reduces emissions, and stabilizes flames in micro-turbines.
- Successful pilot plant testing in Lampoldshausen demonstrates the system's capability to run on pure hydrogen, addressing challenges posed by hydrogen's high chemical reactivity.
The German Aerospace Center (DLR) and Power Service Consulting have collaboratively developed a groundbreaking retrofit technology that allows micro-turbines to run on both hydrogen and natural gas. This innovation aims to bridge the gap between current energy production methods and a potential future hydrogen economy. By retrofitting existing gas turbines for hydrogen use, the cost and time required are significantly reduced compared to building new gas turbine power plants, with potential benefits for emission reduction.
The retrofit technology includes a jet-stabilized burner design optimized for hydrogen, which enhances combustion efficiency, reduces emissions, and stabilizes flames in micro-turbines. The system has been successfully tested in a pilot plant in Lampoldshausen, demonstrating its capability to run on pure hydrogen for extended periods. This achievement is a significant step towards integrating hydrogen as a viable energy source.
Peter Kutne, from the Gas Turbines Department at the DLR Institute of Combustion Technology, emphasized the advantages of retrofitting gas turbines, highlighting the cost-effectiveness and environmental benefits. The innovative burner design addresses the challenges posed by hydrogen's high reactivity, ensuring safe and efficient operation of micro-turbines.
Overall, this retrofit technology represents a positive development in the energy sector, offering a practical solution for utilizing hydrogen alongside natural gas in power generation. The successful testing and performance of the system indicate promising prospects for its future application in various industries and settings.