FST develops seals for hydrogen power production

Weinheim, Germany – Freudenberg Sealing Technologies (FST) is providing seals for electrolysers to meet expected high demand for hydrogen production based on solar and wind power. 

The membrane electrolysis components are designed for mass-manufacture and automated assembly – even though some are up to one metre in diameter, said FST in a recent statement, adding that the seals were developed in anticipation for a significant increase in the global production capacity for green hydrogen.

According to FST, the electrolysis technologies – to split water using green power – are well-advanced, with ‘membrane electrolysis’ particularly suitable for intermittent production with a highly fluctuating power supply. 

While generally manufactured in small quantities, FST’s new polymer membrane electrolysis components are designed for mass-manufacture and automated assembly – even though some are up to one metre in diameter. 

The German manufacturer said its solutions include moulding the sealing material directly onto functional parts or applying the seal to specialised carriers, which are easier to transport and install.  

“In principle, we face similar challenges as when we seal large battery housings in electric vehicles,” explained technical director gaskets, Robert Lidster. “That’s why we can transfer our expertise to the electrolyser market.”

According to FST, the customisable seals are based on specially developed EPDM or fluoroelastomer compounds, with very low permeability to hydrogen and resistance to aggressive electrolysis media.

The company said it is currently conducting “extensive testing” of the materials against aggressive media combinations in electrolysis, expecting the materials to provide a long service life of over 50,000 operating hours.