Hydrogen utilization

Hydrogen technologies play an important role in the energy transition and offer a wide range of potential applications. The hydrogen produced can be used in fuel cells to generate electrical energy. This process utilises so-called cold combustion, in which a controlled reaction of hydrogen with oxygen takes place in the fuel cell. This produces electrical voltage. The only by-product is pure water; no additional emissions are released.

Among other things, this technology is used in fuel cell vehicles, which represent an environmentally friendly alternative to conventional combustion engines.

Combined heat and power (CHP) plants can utilise hydrogen to generate electricity and heat at the same time. They are particularly important for decentralised energy supply. They offer an efficient solution for supplying energy to buildings and can help to stabilise the electricity grid.

In industry, hydrogen is used as a means of steel production to reduce CO2 emissions. Hydrogen is also used in other high-temperature processes to make industrial production more sustainable.

In addition, hydrogen is used in modified boilers or heating systems for environmentally friendly heat generation. This contributes to the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and supports the transition to low-carbon building heating.

Research in the aviation and shipping sector shows the potential of hydrogen as a fuel that could lead to a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. This would be a major step towards sustainable mobility.

In short, hydrogen technologies offer a wide range of applications that contribute to the decarbonisation of various sectors and support the energy transition. They are an essential component on the road to a sustainable and climate-friendly energy supply of the future.

HARTING products can be found in fuel cells, e.g. at the power output. The performance and efficiency of the connectors for high currents are important here. Due to their specification, HARTING Han® HPR Single Pole connectors are particularly suitable for powerful fuel cell systems. They achieve parameters of up to 650 A at 4 kV AC/DC and, with a degree of protection of IP68/69, offer a robust solution that functions reliably even in demanding environments.

The power supply for peripheral systems (Balance of Plant, BoP) - such as ventilation, pumps and cooling - is important for efficient operation. High-current connectors, the Han® S series, are used for this purpose. They offer a rated current of up to 450 A when using 150 mm² cables and reach voltages of up to 1500V DC. They have a degree of protection of IP67 and IP69K and are therefore ideal for harsh environments. Thanks to excellent vibration and shock resistance as well as ‘Touch Safe’ male and female contacts, they increase safety during operation.

HARTING connectors make an important contribution to the transmission of power and data in fuel cells between the main control cabinet and the components of the fuel cell system - Balance of Plant (BoP). Important functions such as operating parameters (e.g. temperature, pressure, etc.) are monitored and controlled in the control cabinet. It is also where communication between the fuel cell and external control systems takes place. We offer modular connectors that enable communication between the control cabinet and the external control system and ensure their power supply. These modular solutions ensure efficient implementation and facilitate maintenance.