Energy

Fraunhofer ENAS is active in various hydrogen projects, which consider different aspects from sensor technology to CCM. For example, in the large-scale research project Reference Factory for Electrolyzer Mass Production, the institute is working on the qualification of the digital inkjet printing process as a CCM manufacturing process in order to thus achieve a highly productive, industrial process speed. The Catalyst Coated Membrane (CCM) represents a key component of electrolyzers. The project goals include a process saving of 33 percent and a material saving of 3 percent. In total, the goal is to reduce the manufacturing costs for CCM production by 30 percent compared to the current state of the art.

Moreover, Fraunhofer ENAS develops together with partners intelligent sensor systems for monitoring high and medium voltage lines including data transmission to the grid control center. Such sensor systems are used to increase the current carrying capacity of existing power lines, to detect ice loads and to improve the safety and reliability of the power grid infrastructure. Partial discharge, abnormal temperature change, vibration and movement, as well as ground fault and so-called wipers (short duration ground faults) are detected, localized and evaluated on site by these systems. Activities include the development of monitoring systems for high-voltage overhead lines, medium-voltage overhead lines and medium-voltage lines and connections with a focus on reliable and cost-effective systems.