The Southwest Research Institute has announced a new joint industry project (JIP). This project aims to help spur the growth and innovation of fueling technologies and infrastructure for hydrogen-powered heavy-duty vehicles.

Strengthening Hydrogen Infrastructure

SwRI’s H2HD REFUEL (Hydrogen Heavy Duty Refueling Equipment and Facilities Utilization Evaluation Laboratory) JIP will strengthen the acceptance of hydrogen fuel use by heavy-duty vehicles, the group said.

The goal is to help the mobility industry meet its decarbonization and zero-emissions goals by advancing hydrogen refueling station (HRS) technologies. 

Over the next four years, SwRI researchers will use hands-on experiments, system modeling and theoretical studies to strengthen existing HRS equipment and procedures and explore potential alternatives.

“There are less than sixty hydrogen refueling stations in the U.S., but only one or two currently exist that can meet the specific needs of heavy-duty hydrogen-powered vehicles,” said Dr. Thomas E. Briggs, Jr., Institute engineer with SwRI’s Powertrain Engineering Division. “Many light-duty hydrogen stations face significant technical challenges, including supply chain issues, mechanical failures, and lack of infrastructure. Considering the multimillion-dollar investment per station, these issues reflect a significant technology gap that industry and government must bridge before building additional heavy-duty refueling stations.”

A Four-Year Program

The H2HD REFUEL JIP hopes to address these issues by connecting hydrogen vehicle manufacturers, original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) and refueling station operators to develop innovative, dependable and compatible HRS technologies.

The four-year program will investigate a broad range of HRS-related topics to help solve existing technical challenges, such as discovering the best onboard hydrogen storage method: liquid, H70 gas or cryo-compression, and comparing the performances of refueling station flow components. The JIP also plans to study hydrogen losses from cryogenic systems that occur from boil-off and system inefficiencies.

“Connecting industry stakeholders is vital to developing compatible and reliable hydrogen refueling technologies and associated infrastructure,” said Angel Wileman, the JIP’s project manager from SwRI’s Mechanical Engineering Division. “H2HD REFUEL’s comprehensive approach will ensure that the industry can meet the growing demand for heavy-duty hydrogen vehicles efficiently and safely. This JIP is another example of how SwRI is leading the way when it comes to hydrogen energy research.”

H2HD REFUEL members will benefit from access to SwRI-led cutting-edge research and hydrogen storage system models. Members can also participate in interactive workshops and bi-annual meetings for networking and knowledge sharing and gain valuable economic and performance insights for different hydrogen storage systems.