The German Aerospace Centre (DLR) has opened the BALIS facility in Empfingen, Germany, designed to develop and test hydrogen fuel cells in the 1.5MW output range.
The facility, which AVL helped design, enables comprehensive analysis of individual components and entire powertrains, such as the fuel cell system, electric motors, refuelling infrastructure, and control and regulation technology.
Additionally, DLR is building its own pioneering megawatt-class electric propulsion system, which will consist of a fuel cell assembly, hydrogen tank, electric motor, control components, and power electronics.
Furthermore, the DLR facility will research the handling of liquid hydrogen in large quantities for the operation of the fuel cell system. DLR is funding the construction of a test tank and refuelling infrastructure with approximately €3m ($2.5m).
H2 View understands that the BALIS test centre is already at full capacity for the next three years with research and cooperation projects involving individual enterprises. Specifically, DLR is working with start-ups and established companies in the aviation sector, including H2FLY, PowerCell, GE Aerospace and Deutsche Aircraft.
“In aviation in particular, the step up from a stable propulsion system on the ground to qualification for use in aircraft is very complex and takes time,” explained Karsten Lemmer, DLR Executive Board Member for Innovation, Transfer and Research Infrastructure.
“A facility like BALIS provides the basis and reliability needed to transform aviation.”
Hartmut Höppner, State Secretary at the German Federal Ministry for Digital and Transport, added, “The opening of the test facility is a decisive step towards achieving climate neutrality by 2045.
“Transport faces major challenges, and hydrogen offers us the opportunity to develop and implement emission-free propulsion systems for various means of transport. We are providing targeted funding to support research and development for the creation of innovative and ultimately marketable solutions.”
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