Test the propulsive potential of the fuel cell

ABB and SINTEF Ocean are conducting groundbreaking research to test fuel cells as the primary source of energy for ship propulsion.

The new research project will find answers to the scaling up of fuel cell technology for merchant ships and passenger ferries, according to a press release.

Test methods are developed at the SINTEF Oceans laboratory in Trondheim. A 30kW fuel cell is used to model the operation and control of a complete marine electrical system in a WM scale propulsion system. ABB's proprietary software, associated with the SINTEF Oceans ship simulator, will emulate and execute various load profiles and diesel / battery / fuel cell combinations, which are tested in a small laboratory environment.

Rapid maturation

The tests will explore more than the technology of the high-end combination and optimized fuel cell / battery.

"SINTEF contributes to the supply of hydrogen and infrastructure, while having a test lab gives ABB and SINTEF Ocean the opportunity to increase skills in integration, control and safety of fuel cell technology in maritime applications ", says Anders Valland, Director of Research for Maritime Energy Systems at SINTEF Ocean.
"SINTEF has extensive capabilities in the fields of fuel cell technology, marine energy systems, power supply systems and power electronics, allowing us to develop innovative solutions.

– Fuel cell technology is rapidly maturing. We expect the tests to lead to a fuel cell platform where the technology can position itself in the maritime sector against fossil fuels, "said Jostein Bogen, Storage and Fuel Cell Product Manager at ABB. – Identifying unknown behaviors and managing such challenges in a controlled environment, instead of risking surprises on board ships, will be at the heart of the trials.

Best total solutions

Another main objective is to determine how to improve the control of fuel cells in combination with energy storage and the optimization of the efficiency, reliability and service life of batteries. combustible.

"We are looking for crucial and practical solutions to develop fuel cell technology as the primary source of propulsion for ships," said Kristoffer Dønnestad, research and development engineer at ABB. "The research is not limited to the flow and handling of fuel, that is to say hydrogen, but also to the structure of a bunker infrastructure at the same time. hydrogen.

The Trondheim laboratory played a key role in ABB's research. It provides details on innovation and contributes to the development of the most advanced marine technologies, including ABB Onboard DC Grid Onboard DC Power System from ABB Onboard.^TM.

Renewable from A to Z

When hydrogen is used as fuel, proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells separate electrons and protons, protons going through while electrons provide electricity. Hydrogen is converted directly into electricity and heat without combustion. PEM fuel cells operate at lower temperatures, are lighter and more compact than their solid oxide fuel cell brothers.

ABB is a leader in sustainable maritime solutions and participates in multi-pilot projects and hybrid vessels. According to the book, battery solutions are essential to meet Norway's requirements for zero drainage in World Heritage fiords beginning in 2026.

He does not think that large ships that cross long distances have to wait until 2050 with a production without emission of electricity, heat and drinking water.

"By using renewable energy to produce hydrogen for fuel cells and battery storage, the entire energy chain is becoming clean," he said.