Freudenberg and Lrssen Werft have entered in a strategic partnership to develop hydrogen fuel cell systems for mega yachts, allowing a vessel to cruise for 1,000 miles or stay anchored for 15 days.
The yacht industry is a significant part of the maritime economy and is key to reaching zero emission targets through decarbonisation initiatives.
Its customers value innovations, new technologies and environmental protection with yachts often situated near residential coasts where factors such as emissions is a delicate issue.
For these vessels, hydrogen fuel cell propulsion provides the most promise when compared to electricity.
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The two companies are already collaborating on the ‘Pa-X-ell 2’ project in which each of the members are pushing ahead to develop a new hybrid energy system with a new generation of fuel cells for yachts and passengers ships suitable for the high seas.
The fuel cells, specifically designed for maritime application, allows for yachts to anchor for 15 days or cruise for 1,000 miles without any emissions – the same as a trip from New York to Miami.
The maritime fuel cell utilises steam reforming of methane to produce hydrogen directly into the system which reacts with oxygen in the fuel cell to generate the electric energy required for propulsion and to power the vessels electrical system.
The fuel cell will be more efficient than other applications and will enjoy lower fuel consumption and reduced maintenance costs with the ship travelling with almost no sound or vibrations.
A key factor of the system is that the fuel cell can be used flexibly with pure hydrogen, methanol or liquefied gas (LNG).
The reformer technology implemented produces hydrogen chemically and is located inside the hydrogen supply module.
Claus Mhlenkamp, CEO of Freudenberg Sealing Technologies, said, “Our strategic cooperation with Lrssen is another milestone in our fuel cell strategy.
“This is how we are making a significant contribution to sustainability in the maritime sector.
“Our partners in the heavy-duty sector appreciate our strategic focus on fuel cell systems with high durability and efficiency.
“Our technical expertise, combined with high value creation, especially on a cell level, is a convincing asset.
“Following the collaboration with Meyer Werft in the cruise sector, our cooperation with Lrssen is proving that our technology is generally transferable to all maritime sub-segments.”