Purem by Eberspächer is leveraging its experience from automotive exhaust technology to develop new products for hydrogen and fuel cells. One innovation is the hydrogen recirculation blower (HRB). Its purpose is to improve hydrogen utilization in the fuel cell stack by recirculating unused hydrogen. The development is based on side channel blower technology and has been adapted to the requirements of hydrogen. This includes increased tightness and optimized materials. Initial practical tests with customers are planned for the end of 2025. According to the company, production is scheduled to start in 2027.
Another innovation is a modular exhaust system for fuel cells. It consists of several individual components that can be combined into a complete system. An important function is the reduction of noise emissions. Although electricity generation in the fuel cell itself is almost silent, unpleasant high-frequency noises occur, for example, through the compressor or purge processes. The silencers are tailored to the requirements of fuel cell vehicles and are resistant to high humidity and water condensate.
Another task is the separation of water from the exhaust gas. Depending on the outside temperature, varying amounts of water would otherwise condense. If puddles form on the road in winter, for example when waiting at traffic lights, this could lead to black ice. According to the manufacturer, the water separators are designed for high mass flows and offer low back pressure as well as high separation efficiency.
For the balance of plant, Purem offers new, production-ready valve solutions. The gas control valve regulates air flows and pressure in the system and can be used as either a bypass or throttle valve. The cathode isolation valve provides hermetic sealing of the cathode path and protects against leaks. Both components are designed for various applications and use suitable materials as well as customer-specific connections.
