The company has completed a specialized test rig that will validate products by Parker OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) customers. With this new technology, Parker will be able to test membrane technology in more advanced ways and develop robust system solutions for fuel cells. The test rig was produced in partnership with the Fraunhofer Institute for Microengineering and Microsystems (IMM), a Germany-based non-profit for scientific research.
By enabling optimal moisture levels, hollow fibre membrane technology allows fuel cells to last longer and to perform more efficiently and reliably. It supports the transition from fossil fuels, accelerating the shift to fuel cell electrical vehicles in the next five years.
Burkhard Hartmann, R&D Officer at Parker’s Engine Mobile Filtration Europe (EMFE) Division, said: “The results speak for themselves: this has been an outstanding collaboration with the Fraunhofer Institute. It moves us all towards better, more efficient, more reliable fuel cell electrical vehicles, a vital step towards a cleaner, better tomorrow.”
Dr Gunther Kolb, Representative from the Fraunhofer Institute for Microengineering and Microsystems, said: “Fuel cell technology is key to reduce emissions worldwide. The partners are confident that the hollow fibre membrane technology will be further improved, the service life of the fuel cell humidifiers will be extended, and their efficiency will be increased for the customers.”
