Cummins announced on July 13 that the company has begun a forward-looking test for the development of hydrogen-fueled internal combustion engines, aiming to further explore a new path for the development of advanced zero-carbon technology. This proof-of-concept test is based on Cummins' industry-leading gas fuel application and power chain technology foundation, and develops innovative power solutions to help customers meet future energy and environmental needs.
"Hydrogen fuel engines have great potential in reducing emissions, improving power and other performance," said Srikanth Padmanabhan, President of Cummins Engine Division. "Cummins is using the latest technology to improve The power density of the product reduces frictional resistance and improves thermal efficiency, thereby effectively avoiding performance limitations and efficiency losses in the process of converting diesel or natural gas engine fuel to hydrogen fuel. At present, we have made major technological breakthroughs and will continue To promote R&D progress, we are very optimistic about the market prospects of this innovative power solution."
After completing the proof-of-concept test, Cummins plans to fully evaluate the engine in various on-road and off-road applications to help the company further promote the decarbonization of commercial vehicles.
Cummins Vice President and Chief Engineer of Engine Division Jonathon White said: "As a supplement to the hydrogen fuel cell, electric battery and renewable natural gas power chain, the hydrogen fuel engine project provides more potential for the more sustainable development of the transportation industry. Technology choices."
The hydrogen fuel engine provides better adaptability options for OEM customers and end users. It is similar to the current power chain system in terms of the mechanical design of the power transmission system integrated with the whole vehicle and parts, and can continue to meet the needs of various applications Provide power and performance support.
Hydrogen fuel engines can use green hydrogen produced by Cummins electrolyzers as fuel to achieve near-zero emissions of carbon dioxide (CO?) and nitrogen oxides (NOx). For fleet customers using Cummins fuel cells or engine power, global investment in renewable hydrogen energy production will also bring new growth opportunities for them to deploy hydrogen energy fleets.
Integrate hydrogen technology
Cummins is continuing to invest in the research and development of hydrogen energy transportation technology, including hydrogen fuel engines, fuel cells, electrolyzers and hydrogen storage tanks.
The high energy density of hydrogen ensures that on-board gas storage can be easily integrated without affecting the vehicle's payload or transportation mileage. Cummins’ joint venture partnership with hydrogen storage specialist NPROXX will promote the ability to integrate fuel cells or hydrogen fuel engines with high-pressure gas tanks and supply lines on vehicles. NPROXX is also a leading supplier in the design, development and manufacture of high-pressure hydrogen storage vessels, enabling rapid hydrogenation for end users.
Cummins’ key role in the layout of the hydrogen energy ecosystem is not limited to fuel cells and hydrogen storage solutions, but also includes the manufacturing of decarbonized renewable hydrogen and the installation experience of more than 600 electrolytic cells worldwide. Our electrolyzers are modular and scalable, suitable for a range of applications, from local truck and bus fleet supply to utility-scale water electrolysis applications. Cummins has a full range of hydrogen capabilities from hydrogen fuel production, storage, and powering of vehicles.
