Integrated Solution for Fuel Cell Applications

Fuel cell technology provides an alternative for the extension of the cruising range within automotive electro mobility. Inside the fuel cell, a chemical reaction of hydrogen and oxygen to water generates electrical power for driving vehicles.

Liebherr-Aerospace offers a compact Electrical Turbo Compressor (ETC) used to feed the fuel cell power system with the oxygen coming from the air. The volume flow through the fuel cell is directly proportional to the electrical power generated by the cell. Air bearings designed by Liebherr-Aerospace lower the friction compared to standard bearings and allow a compressor speed up to 85,000 rpm. For an optimized efficiency, a turbo stage has been added to the compressor.

As part of a modularity concept, the motor of the ETC can be adapted to a needed output power in the range between 15 kW and 25 kW. An integrated power electronic covering the whole power range feeds the motor. The power electronic supply voltage allows varying between 250 VDC and 430 VDC, the control circuits are fed by the standard 12 V automotive network.

ETC made by Liebherr - your benefits:

• A technically mature power inverter stage combined with contact-free current and voltage sensors results in a simple reliable electronic.
• All requirements related to safety, communication and maintenance of the automotive industry are fulfilled – due to the use of the powerful microprocessor.
• The modular design of power electronic and motor as well as the use of a common cooling loop for all parts create a very compact unit.
• Applicable of in a wide range of different vehicles.