BBG has presented a concept for HP-RTM moulds that enable the quick and reproducible manufacturing of compact, modular hydrogen tanks made of CFRP and used in many vehicle types.
BBG
BBG presents self-closing HP-RTM moulds for compact universal hydrogen tanks
The CFRP tank modules are autonomously produced in self-closing moulds – a process that does not require a press or further production equipment, such as autoclaves for curing.
To this end, cylindrical hollow bodies are over-braided with carbon fibre, then a low-viscosity, resin-based mixture is injected under high pressure in the heated mould. After curing, the CFRP cylinders can be removed and connected to form a tank.
BBG, a manufacturer of moulds, machinery and plants, has developed and manufactured moulds for the high-pressure resin transfer molding (HP-RTM) process for many years. As early as in 2019, the company presented a mould for the production of hydrogen tanks at the JEC World Composite trade show.
Since tanks are made of individual CFRP cylinder modules, they can be tailored precisely to the installation space available in a vehicle.
Simple technology, low cost
In comparison to other processes, series production with self-closing moulds offers the benefit of being based on a simple technology, which results in low investment cost. Replacing large cylindrical hydrogen storage units by more compact tanks and the reduction of production cost play an important role in the development of fuel cell vehicles.
Gerhard Hörtrich, Project and Sales Manager at BBG, said: "Since the high pressure applied to hydrogen tanks requires a great deal of component stability, we attach particular importance to maximum precision in the design and production of HP-RTM moulds.
“For the production of the hydrogen tanks to be as efficient as possible at the same time, we have developed and integrated a reliable sealing system, among other things. This system ensures that virtually no manual reworking is required when the resin mixture is processed."
