The start-up AE Driven Solutions has developed an innovative range extender principle. It enables emission-free operation over distances of up to 400 km. Inside, high-density pipe connection systems ensure the transportation and supply of the gaseous hydrogen. The VOSS Lok40 tube forming system from VOSS Fluid is designed to ensure zero leakage.
AE Driven Solutions GmbH is based in Aachen and designs fuel cell systems for commercial vehicle and freight transport companies. The team led by founder and Managing Director Tobias Reil has decades of experience with fuel cells, H2 infrastructures and compressor technology as well as proven expertise in the field of electromobility. Under the project name H2Range, the start-up is developing fuel cell systems to automotive standards. The system overcomes the conventional weaknesses of battery and combustion engines and is particularly suitable for medium-duty commercial vehicles or mobiles as well as stationary emergency power generators. In addition, the concept allowsCO2-neutral operation of refrigerated vehicles, which is almost impossible with a battery drive.
Nevertheless, this fuel cell system poses a number of challenges, primarily the leakage-free transportation of the volatile and highly flammable H2 molecules and the prevention of hydrogen embrittlement. Compared to oil leaks, for example, gas leaks may only be detected once a hazardous situation has already arisen. It is therefore essential to prevent even small amounts of leakage. This is where the VOSS Lok 40 pipe forming system comes into play.
Tightness is the top priority
Schematic diagram of a chassis with tank system from AE Driven SolutionsWhenlooking for a highly leak-proof connection system for the H2Range, AE Driven Solutions GmbH opted for VOSS Lok 40 from VOSS Fluid, as it was able to meet even the most sensitive requirements. The crux of the matter when using hydrogen: H2 is the smallest molecule and is particularly challenging in terms of leakage safety in high-pressure applications. VOSS Fluid has designed its VOSS Lok 40 high-tightness tube forming system precisely for such applications - universally applicable for any pressure level. The high tightness is based on a total of three components: a conical sealing and retaining contour that is formed onto the tube end, a union nut that is silver-plated as standard in the stainless steel version and a fitting body. The parts are matched to each other in such a way that the tight tightening of the nut presses the sealing surfaces together without gaps for optimum leakage protection. It therefore scores as a closed system with maximum process reliability, torque assembly with a shortened assembly path and the elimination of components to reduce possible leakage paths and costs. The manufacturer VOSS Fluid provided the corresponding proof of quality through certification tests by EC79, TÜV Rheinland, DVGW (Deutscher Verein des Gas- und Wasserfaches e.V.) and the international shipbuilding classification society DNV-GL.
In combination with VOSS Lok 40, the fuel cell system from AE Driven Solutions skillfully overcomes the problems of established drive types and offers an ambient system with the advantages of two worlds. H2Range has already impressed in numerous practical tests, with the result that the first vehicle prototype based on an IVECO Daily with the innovative fuel cell system from AE Driven Solutions should be available as early as 2022.
About VOSS Fluid GmbH
VOSS Fluid GmbH is a leading international supplier of fluid technology. The company is headquartered in Wipperfürth and is part of VOSS Holding. The product portfolio includes pre-assembled tube geometries, pre-assembled hose lines, tube and flange connections, hose fittings and useful accessories for stationary and mobile hydraulics. As a development and system partner for international mechanical engineering, VOSS Fluid focuses on application-specific system solutions. VOSS Fluid offers customers everything from a single source: from project planning and engineering to production, assembly and economical logistics services. With four of its own sales companies in Europe and Asia as well as other VOSS Group offices and a worldwide dealer network, VOSS Fluid guarantees the reliable distribution of its system solutions at all times.
Photos: VOSS Fluid GmbH
