NanoSUN is pleased to announce the launch of its new H₂ cooling technology to deliver a reliable, low-cost, cooling solution for operators of H₂ transport vehicles and static H₂ refueling stations.

H₂ is increasingly being acknowledged as a green energy source for decarbonizing the heavy-duty transport sector. However, scale-up and consistent refueling of H₂ vehicles currently requires expensive cooling technology.

In 2021, NanoSUN were awarded 170k of funding by the Department of Transport in partnership with Innovate UK, to design and develop an alternative cooling process for rapid refueling of H₂ road freight vehicles. NanoSUN‘s Research & Development team have since devised a cost-effective and appropriate cooling solution to support the delivery of an efficient and reliable refueling infrastructure for H₂ vehicles. 

NanoSUN's new Coolth Engine technology differs from conventional mechanical refrigeration methods, in that it offers operators an eco-friendly solution that is always ready to go; requiring zero downtime. This enables the delivery of consecutive vehicle refueling operations, whilst eliminating large power usage to reduce energy costs and limit the impact of global warming.

Conventional approaches to cooling H₂ are either very slow to fill vehicle tanks or require a chiller, which are energy intensive and expensive. Current methods are therefore problematic, in that they are operationally unfavorable and undermine the benefit of fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) over long charging battery electric vehicles (BEVs).

NanoSUN’s novel Coolth Engine technology tackles this issue by eliminating the need for moving parts & the operating costs of conventional chillers. Presenting a low-cost, low-maintenance option that facilitates fast H₂ refuels for the end user.

This May, the team were delighted to complete a successful demonstration of the new Coolth Engine for Innovate UK, with the technology now ready for use in the H₂ and transportation markets.

Dean O’Connor, NanoSUN’s CEO, commented, “if we are to develop a reliable H2 refueling infrastructure end users can rely on, it’s crucial that we deliver a more desirable cooling method that operators of refueling stations can confidently utilize at a lower cost. NanoSUN’s ability to deliver this new, eco-friendly solution, demonstrates the team’s continuous expertise and drive dedicated to supporting the transportation industry in transitioning to a green future.”

Michael Fritchley, Impact and Performance Manager, at Innovate UK, said, “developing technology for the rapid refueling of H₂ vehicles is essential to decarbonize the heavy-duty transport sector. This project takes an important step in achieving this, by demonstrating a cost-effective, innovative cooling solution which enhances the process of H₂ refueling. Innovate UK is proud to have supported this project in partnership with the Department for Transport.”