Hydrogen-fueled IC engines: Cummins begins testing stage
Srikanth Padmanabhan, President of the Engine Segment, commented the announcement: «We are using all new engine platforms equipped with the latest technologies to improve power density, reduce friction and improve thermal efficiency, allowing us to avoid the typical performance limitations and efficiency compromises associated with converting diesel or natural gas engines over to hydrogen fuel».
Cummins is currently testing hydrogen-fueled internal combustion engines. The proof-of-concept test is building on Cummins’ existing expertise in gaseous-fuel applications and powertrain leadership to create new power solutions that help customers meet the energy and environmental needs of the future.
It is quite a significant step within a path that started last Autumn with the Hydrogen Day held by the US company that allowed us to know Cummins’ strategy as for the development of hydrogen-powered solutions.
«Thrilled about the potential of the hydrogen engine»
Srikanth Padmanabhan, President of the Engine Segment, commented the announcement: «Cummins is thrilled about the potential of the hydrogen engine to reduce emissions and provide power and performance for customers. We are using all new engine platforms equipped with the latest technologies to improve power density, reduce friction and improve thermal efficiency, allowing us to avoid the typical performance limitations and efficiency compromises associated with converting diesel or natural gas engines over to hydrogen fuel. We have made significant technological advancements and will continue moving forward. We are optimistic about bringing this solution to market».
Cummins’ next hydrogen-fueled engines
According to Cummins, the next stage deals with the engine evaluation in a variety of on- and off-highway applications, supporting the company’s efforts to accelerate the decarbonization of commercial vehicles.
Hydrogen engines offer OEMs and end-users the benefit of adaptability by continuing to use familiar mechanical drivelines with vehicle and equipment integration mirroring that of current powertrains while continuing to provide the power and capability for meeting application needs.
The hydrogen engines can use green hydrogen fuel, produced by Cummins-manufactured electrolyzers (here’s the news about the acquisition of Hydrogenics), emitting near zero CO2 emissions through the tailpipe and near zero levels of NOx.
The hydrogen engine program can potentially expand the technology options available to achieve a more sustainable transport sector, complementing our capabilities in hydrogen fuel cell, battery electric and renewable natural gas powertrains
Jonathon White, Vice-President of Engine Business Engineering
Beyond fuel cells and storage solutions
The high energy density of hydrogen enables easily integrated on-board gas storage without compromising either the vehicle payload or operating range. Cummins’ joint venture partnership with hydrogen storage specialist NPROXXadds the ability to integrate the fuel cell or hydrogen engine with the high-pressure gas cylinder tanks and supply lines on the vehicle.
Cummins’ role in expanding the hydrogen ecosphere goes beyond fuel cells and storage solutions to the manufacture of decarbonized renewable hydrogen, with the experience of more than 600 electrolyzer installations across the globe.
