Rheinmetall wins another order for fuel cell components

Düsseldorf-based technology group Rheinmetall has won a fifth order for supplying fuel cell components, this time from a European customer in the industrial sector. The aggregated value of the order for cathode and shut-off valves for industrial applications is in the lower two-digit million-euro range, the company said.

The newly ordered Rheinmetall components are bypass and high-sealing performance shutoff valves for fuel cells with an output greater than 300 kW. (Photo: Rheinmetall)

Including this order, booked at the end of June, total order volume for cathode flaps is now approaching the three-digit million-euro mark, Rheinmetall said.

Designed to serve as bypass and high-sealing performance shutoff valves for fuel cells, the newly ordered components are flap systems with integrated electronics and a large bore diameter (greater than 55 mm). They are engineered to meet the stringent sealing requirements for fuel cells with an output of greater than 300 kW for use in industry.

Based on previously delivered and successfully verified valve samples, the company’s production lines at its Berlin plant will be adapted for higher-volume production starting in 2024. Rheinmetall will supply the serially produced parts directly to the customer. The supply of spare parts will be demand driven.

The valve systems ordered from Rheinmetall regulate the flow of fresh and exhaust air mass streams and insulate the fuel cell stacks on the cathode side at the inlet and outlet points from the ambient atmosphere. Achieved through a special design, the system’s very low leakage has been proven, the company said. Operating times of up to 12,000 hours are already attainable, while the company said a new generation currently in development will result in a service life of at least 30,000 hours in commercial vehicles, as well as in off-road, rail, maritime and stationary applications.

The company said it is currently engaged in-depth negotiations with other customers regarding mobile and stationary applications for fuel cell technology.