Advancing Hydrogen Technology with Laser Innovations at Hy-fcell 2024
Key Ideas
  • The Fraunhofer Institute for Laser Technology ILT is showcasing how laser technologies are revolutionizing hydrogen technology at Hy-fcell 2024 in Stuttgart.
  • Innovations like laser-assisted drying technology and double-beam welding are significantly increasing production speed, energy efficiency, and reducing costs in fuel cell production.
  • Cost-efficient solutions for corrosion protection coatings and the use of laser technologies in welding and repair processes are key to advancing the scalability and efficiency of PEM fuel cell manufacturing.
  • Efforts to optimize fuel cell production processes through laser technologies are crucial steps towards making hydrogen technology more economically viable and sustainable for widespread adoption.
The Fraunhofer Institute for Laser Technology ILT is set to exhibit groundbreaking advancements in hydrogen technology at the Hy-fcell 2024 trade fair in Stuttgart on October 8 and 9. The focus will be on how laser technologies are transforming the landscape of hydrogen technology by enhancing efficiency, reducing costs, and improving sustainability. One of the key innovations showcased will be the laser-assisted drying technology developed by Fraunhofer ILT, which significantly reduces drying times for wet-applied electrode layers in PEM fuel cells. This technology not only boosts production speed but also enhances energy efficiency and saves valuable production space. Additionally, the institute is working on corrosion protection coatings for bipolar plates, aiming to increase efficiency and reduce costs in fuel cell production. By combining spray coating with laser-beam processing, a corrosion-resistant finish is achieved without the need for energy-intensive vacuum processes. Furthermore, double-beam welding techniques are being employed to accelerate production processes in fuel cell manufacturing. This method utilizes two laser beams simultaneously to weld metallic bipolar plates, leading to a nearly 50% reduction in cycle time without compromising quality. Moreover, the optimization of fuel cell production through laser technologies like extreme high-speed laser cladding is highlighted. By replacing expensive tool steels with structural steels and applying wear protection coatings, the service life of tools is prolonged, resulting in increased wear resistance and the ability to repair damaged areas. Overall, these laser-based innovations presented by Fraunhofer ILT signify a significant step forward in making hydrogen technology more efficient, cost-effective, and scalable for a sustainable energy future.
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