Innovative Retrofit for Micro-Turbines to Burn Hydrogen and Natural Gas
Key Ideas
- DLR and PSC tested a retrofit for micro-turbines to burn hydrogen and natural gas in preparation for a green hydrogen economy.
- Retrofitting existing power plants with the new system is more cost-effective and time-efficient than building new ones.
- The innovative jet-stabilized burner developed by the engineers allows the micro-turbine to safely burn hydrogen, natural gas, or a mixture of both.
- Tests on the pilot plant showed successful operation with pure hydrogen, achieving the full electrical output range without issues.
The Deutsche Zentrum für Luft und Raumfahrt (DLR) and Power Service Consulting (PSC) have collaborated to test a way for micro-turbines to burn hydrogen, natural gas, or a mixture of both as a preparation for a future green hydrogen economy. Retrofitting existing power plants with this system is seen as a cost-effective and time-efficient solution compared to building entirely new facilities. The developed jet-stabilized burner ensures safe combustion of hydrogen by lowering the temperature and stabilizing the flame in the micro-turbine's combustion chamber. Tests conducted on a pilot plant in Lampoldshausen demonstrated successful operation on pure hydrogen for several hours, showcasing the system's ability to achieve the full electrical output range without issues. This innovative approach brings hope for a greener energy transition by enabling the use of hydrogen in existing infrastructure, paving the way for a more sustainable energy production.