ZF CVS Unveils Innovative Hydrogen Recirculation Blower for Fuel-Cell Vehicles
Key Ideas
  • ZF Commercial Vehicle Solutions introduces a new hydrogen recirculation blower to enhance fuel-cell-powered commercial vehicles' performance and efficiency.
  • The blower optimizes hydrogen consumption by recirculating unused hydrogen, reducing the total cost of ownership and improving the vehicle's lifetime durability.
  • Built on turbomachinery concept with high-speed electrical motor and air-bearing technology, the blower is compact, efficient, and maintenance-free, contributing to optimal efficiency and high mass flows.
  • The system is part of ZF's Balance of Plant portfolio and complements their fuel cell air compressor, showcasing ZF's commitment to innovative sustainable transportation solutions.
ZF Commercial Vehicle Solutions has revealed a new hydrogen recirculation blower tailored to enhance the performance of fuel-cell-powered commercial vehicles. This innovative blower is designed to recirculate unused hydrogen, thereby optimizing hydrogen levels for better consumption and overall vehicle performance. By drawing minimal power from the fuel cell, the blower also contributes to reducing hydrogen usage. The hydrogen recirculation blower is part of ZF's Balance of Plant (BoP) portfolio and complements their fuel cell air compressor, which facilitates the hydrogen-oxygen reaction within the fuel cell stack. ZF's focus on system integration and air bearing systems has enabled them to develop these cutting-edge products. The compact and lightweight design of the blower is optimized for efficiency, leveraging a high-speed electrical motor that can reach up to 100,000rpm. The use of air-bearing technology eliminates the need for lubrication, ensuring no contamination of the fuel cell stack while maximizing efficiency and mass flows. Additionally, the blower features an integrated inverter that supports 800V high-voltage systems for seamless operation. ZF's patented electric media-gap motor technology further enhances the blower's compactness, with the water separator integrated directly into the device, eliminating the necessity for active cooling. Dr. Christian Brenneke, the head of innovation and development at ZF's commercial vehicle solutions division, highlighted ZF's expertise in creating these innovative solutions for sustainable transportation. The durability and efficiency of the hydrogen recirculation blower are expected to contribute significantly to reducing the total cost of ownership for commercial vehicle operators, underlining ZF's commitment to advancing sustainable and efficient transportation solutions.
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