Continental's Breakthrough Solution: Enhancing Hydrogen System Efficiency in Commercial Vehicles
Key Ideas
- Continental introduces innovative synthetic rubber lines for cooling in hydrogen powertrains, reducing ion leaching and enhancing efficiency in commercial vehicles.
- The new technology increases the service life of vehicle components, addressing challenges faced by engineers in the hydrogen drive system industry.
- By using a special mixture based on high-performance EPDM, Continental ensures high resistance against the leaching of ions, contributing to the safe operation of hydrogen-powered vehicles.
- The development of thermoplastic barrier layers in hose constructions further enhances safety by preventing the release of hydrogen atoms, ultimately increasing the fuel-cell vehicle's range.
Continental has announced a significant breakthrough in enhancing the efficiency of hydrogen systems in commercial vehicles. In Hanover, Germany, the company introduced a new line for cooling in hydrogen powertrains that reduces the penetration of ions into the media circuit, thereby improving technological advancements in hydrogen trucks and buses. The synthetic rubber line, with its unique material properties, minimizes ion leaching, which can lead to material degradation and reduced efficiency in hydrogen drive systems. By combatting this challenge with a special mixture based on high-performance EPDM, Continental aims to extend the service life of vehicle components.
The move towards hydrogen as an alternative energy source for drive systems has been gaining traction among bus and truck fleets and commercial vehicle manufacturers. However, engineers in the industry face various challenges due to the unique properties of hydrogen, such as its extremely low density. Continental's focus on material expertise allows them to tailor solutions for hydrogen powertrains, ensuring safety and efficiency.
Continental's innovative approach includes using a thermoplastic barrier layer in hose constructions to prevent the release of hydrogen atoms despite their low density. This not only enhances vehicle safety by reducing the risk of flammable hydrogen-air mixtures but also increases the fuel-cell vehicle's range by minimizing fuel loss. The development of these advanced solutions showcases Continental's commitment to supporting the commercial vehicle industry in transitioning towards hydrogen and battery drive systems. By pooling expertise in vehicle media circuits under the Original Equipment Solutions business area, Continental aims to provide integrated support to manufacturers in the ongoing evolution of combustion technology.
Topics
Public Transit
Technology
Innovation
Automotive Industry
Energy Transition
Manufacturing
Research And Development
Commercial Vehicles
Material Science
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