(Aachen) – The Fraunhofer Institute for Laser Technology ILT wants to contribute to the further development of fuel cell technology. For this purpose, the experts have set up a hydrogen laboratory in Aachen. The scientists say that the new “Hydrogen Lab” offers a wide range of “laser technology test facilities for variable dimensions and designs” on 300 square meters.
Along the process chain, for example for the production of metallic bipolar plates, the technology not only covers the laser-related production steps, but also enables the production of small quantities. There are also systems for structuring with ultra-short pulse lasers (UKP), for laser-based coating and for high-speed welding and cutting.
Testing for efficiency and tightness
The laser-manufactured components were evaluated on test benches in terms of hydrogen tightness and efficiency. There are well-known research institutions in Germany that work on hydrogen, says Alexander Olowinsky, group leader for microjoining at Fraunhofer ILT. However, in terms of the “variety of practical possibilities”, the new laboratory is “unique”. It also offers “optimal conditions for practically bringing together the findings from the various sub-areas at a central location”.
Alexander Olowinsky wants to initiate a variety of industrial collaborations in the future: “This can be collaboration with component manufacturers for fuel cells as well as with partners who produce manufacturing technology such as scanners or tools for process monitoring or want to test beam sources.”
The new “Hydrogen Lab” will open on May 5, 2022 as part of the “International Laser Technology Congress AKL'22”.
Photos
Bipolar plate functionalized using UKP laser microstructuring (bipolar plate design: Dana Victor Reinz). © Fraunhofer ILT
