Imagine replacing the loud, smoky diesel engines in giant excavators with a clean system that runs on hydrogen. It's like giving a heavy-duty machine a giant, refillable battery that doesn't run out of juice quickly. This system is built like Lego blocks, so you can add more power modules depending on how big the machine is.
Heavy machinery in mining and construction relies on diesel, causing high CO2 emissions and noise pollution. Batteries are often too heavy or inefficient for these high-power, long-duration tasks in harsh environments.
Two hydrogen fuel cell prototypes: a 120 kW excavator and a 240 kW shredder, featuring a modular powertrain and a specialized balance-of-plant for dust and vibration.
If you are a mining operator dealing with high carbon taxes and diesel costs — this project developed a 240 kW modular fuel cell powertrain for shredders that reduces CO2 emissions by 138.4 tons per year.
If you are a machinery manufacturer dealing with strict urban noise laws — this project developed a 120 kW fuel cell system for excavators that lowers noise levels by up to 11 dB(A).
If you are a waste firm dealing with emissions in remote areas without power grids — this project developed a hydrogen-powered shredder that consumes 11.78 tonnes of hydrogen per year to replace diesel.
Based on available project data, specific pricing and cost structures for the fuel cell powertrains are not provided.
Yes, the system is modular. It demonstrates scalability by using one 120 kW module for an excavator and two modules to reach 240 kW for a shredder.
Based on available project data, the project involves 11 partners including industry and research centers, but specific licensing terms are not disclosed.
The project specifically includes activities to support regulatory and standardization efforts to help the adoption of hydrogen fuel cells in non-road machinery.
The project validates reliability through a 1,000-hour demonstration in a real quarry environment to ensure the systems can handle dust and vibration.
The consortium is heavily industry-driven with a 64% industry ratio, comprising 7 industrial partners and 3 SMEs across 6 countries. This strong commercial presence, combined with 3 research/university partners, suggests a high focus on market viability and practical application rather than pure theory.
Contact Instituto Tecnologico de Aragon for technical specifications on the modular FC powertrain.
Contact us to connect with the H2MAC consortium for licensing or pilot opportunities.
