HOERBIGER achieves diesel power parity with H2 system

The Engine Business Unit is specialized in the development and supply of injection and ignition components for gas engines in mobile and stationary applications. HOERBIGER is currently working with its partners to increase the efficiency of hydrogen ignition – with success!

Injectors and ignition systems are critical components for hydrogen internal combustion engines (H2 ICE), which are seen as a viable alternative to fuel cells for mid to heavy-duty applications due to their robustness and power delivery. While final work will soon be completed on the H2 injector technology, HOERBIGER and Altronic (a member of the HOERBIGER Group), in cooperation with Prometheus Applied Technologies, provider of hydrogen combustion system know-how, are now advancing development of a solution for hydrogen ignition.

Initially, the conversion of diesel engines to hydrogen faced difficulties, resulting in 20 to 30% loss in power density and efficiency. To overcome these difficulties and to achieve power and efficiency parity with diesel engines HOERBIGER and their partners developed the AdaptH2 system consisting of injectors with an adaptable nozzle design, a predictive same cycle spark ignition control and a unique prechamber design. The patented technology adjusts the spark energy in real-time within microseconds to ensure consistent combustion across cycles, mitigating misfires and optimizing performance.

In addition, the formation of a toroidal vortex aids in rapid and complete combustion of the ultra-lean air/fuel mixture, minimizing residue for subsequent injection events. HOERBIGER’s port injection architecture, coupled with innovative design elements like metal deflectors, supports the correct diffusion angle and flow dynamic.

The new ignition unit under development at HOERBIGER has overcome some significant issues with using hydrogen as a fuel for internal combustion engines resulting in diesel-like performance with zero emissions.