In a groundbreaking achievement for liquid hydrogen application in low-altitude aircraft, China has successfully developed and completed the maiden flight of its first liquid hydrogen-powered drone prototype. This milestone represents a significant technological breakthrough, according to Chinese news media reports.
The pioneering prototype was a collaborative effort between Shaanxi Tongchen Heguang Cryogenic Technology Co., Ltd. (Tongchen Heguang Cryogenic Technology), Xi’an Jiaotong University, and Shengshi Yingchuang Hydrogen Energy Technology (Shaanxi) Co., Ltd. (Shengshi Yingchuang). The drone is equipped with a lightweight cryogenic liquid hydrogen storage tank and a hydrogen fuel cell system. Tongchen Heguang Cryogenic Technology and Xi’an Jiaotong University focused on developing the liquid hydrogen fuel supply and refueling systems, while Shengshi Yingchuang handled the overall assembly of the drone. The project utilized Xi’an Jiaotong University’s advanced liquid hydrogen production and storage platform, ensuring a steady fuel supply.
The project verified the feasibility of critical technologies for the production, storage, refueling, and fuel supply systems of liquid hydrogen for drones. It overcame significant technical challenges, including liquid hydrogen refueling, fuel supply integration, and the overall integration of the liquid hydrogen drone system.
Li Yongxin, the project’s technical director, highlighted the advantages of liquid hydrogen due to its high energy density and efficient hydrogen release. These properties can significantly enhance the endurance of drones, opening up broad application prospects in the low-altitude aircraft field. The combination of advanced cryogenic liquid hydrogen storage technology with an efficient fuel cell system allows these drones to improve long-distance operational capabilities, adapt to extreme environments, extend flight time, enhance flight safety, and expand the range of potential applications.
In July 2023, Shaanxi Winner Digital Technology Co., Ltd., a leading enterprise in Shaanxi’s hydrogen energy industry chain, collaborated with professors from Xi’an Jiaotong University to establish Tongchen Heguang Cryogenic Technology. This company focuses on developing and transforming liquid hydrogen application technology, particularly in hydrogen liquefaction, efficient storage, transportation, and safety. Through continuous innovation, the company has mastered core key technologies and collaborates closely with universities and industries to promote the transformation and industrial application of liquid hydrogen technology.
Tongchen Heguang Cryogenic Technology has achieved independent design and development capabilities for small and medium-sized liquid hydrogen tanks, refueling systems, and fuel supply systems. The company aims to apply this technology to long-distance, long-endurance large transportation vehicles in the future.
This successful maiden flight marks a significant step forward in the application of liquid hydrogen in aviation, potentially revolutionizing the drone industry and contributing to the broader adoption of hydrogen as a clean energy source.
Media Contact
Company Name: Shaanxi Tongchen Heguang Cryogenic Technology Co., Ltd.
Contact Person: Mr. Li
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Country: China
Website: https://mp.weixin.qq.com/s/cQ6S4LzvxfKGi5OGKhc2yA