Atlas Copco transforms hydrogen mobility with new H2Y air compressor

As the world pivots toward cleaner energy, with hydrogen emerging as a renewable source kingpin, Atlas Copco is stepping up its green narrative with the introduction of the new state-of-the-art H2Y hydrogen compressor.

“We designed the H2Y hydrogen compressor to meet the growing demands for hydrogen mobility which is driven by the global energy transition,” affirms states JC Lombard, Business Line Manager for Atlas Copco Compressor Technique’s Oil Free Air division. “The future of hydrogen mobility hinges on robust and reliable compression solutions so these machines are so much more than just products; they are integral to the sustainability of the hydrogen industry. Whether for high-pressure applications or fuelling stations, Atlas Copco’s groundbreaking technology is poised to deliver safe, reliable and efficient hydrogen compression, ensuring continuous operation for a range of critical applications.

Lombard explains that the H2Y hydrogen compressor is a vital component for FastFill, Time-fill and Combination-fill hydrogen stations which depend on a constant and steady supply of compressed gas.  Atlas Copco’s solutions are engineered to maintain seamless operations, safeguarding both processes and profitability and mitigating costly downtime that can have a direct impact on revenue.

Atlas Copco’s hydrogen compression systems represent a comprehensive approach that optimises every facet of hydrogen mobility. Atlas Copco has integrated its pioneering Variable Speed Drive (VSD) technology and Proportional Control systems to enable the H2Y compressors to adapt to fluctuating inlet pressures, subsequently enhancing efficiencies while reducing energy consumption. Lombard notes that this adaptability is particularly crucial in virtual gas pipelines, where consistent performance is essential.

Quality assurance is a cornerstone of Atlas Copco’s approach. Each hydrogen compressor undergoes rigorous factory testing and is containerised to ensure that the machine arrives on-site fully operational. This modular, plug-and-play solution simplifies installation, reducing both the time and costs associated with setting up new hydrogen fuelling stations. Lombard concludes: “Atlas Copco’s groundbreaking technology is poised to deliver safe, reliable and efficient hydrogen compression, setting a new industry benchmark in hydrogen mobility and empowering customers to meet their sustainability goals with confidence.”