We are currently in the context of decarbonizing our society. This is why at HEF, we are integrating environmental issues into our products.
HEF offers coatings for the bipolar plates in new generations of fuel cells based on a unique and resistant PVD carbon solution. Bipolar plates are among the main components of proton-exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs). Bipolar plates ensure structural support, they distribute flows, and they also guarantee electrical conductivity. HEF coatings make it possible to produce systems that are lighter and more compact. A protective coating is applied to the plates to safeguard the parts from corrosion, and also to guarantee optimal conductivity for several years. Our teams have developed an automated, high -performance, in-line coating machine, the “HPLV”. The HPLV can treat the surfaces on large quantities of bipolar plates.
HEF also offers coatings that are qualified for new-generation electrolyzers with an ultra-dense vacuum deposition solution for the separator plates and the porous transport layers (PTLs). Note that the term, electrolyzer, designates the group consisting of the stack (a dense array consisting of several cells) and balance of plant (BoP) that enables overall operation of the unit (generators, compressors, pumps, etc.). Each cell of an electrolyzer contains the PTLs and the bipolar separator plates. Electrolyzers play an essential role in distributing flows and conducting electrical current. These bipolar separator plates operate in a harsh and corrosive environment. Therefore use of surface treatments is a key factor in both optimizing performance and ensuring durability. The mature PVD-PECVD technology developed by HEF reduces the quantity of precious metals without compromising performance. Our vertical integration model positions us a strategic partner. Today we offer competitive and innovative solution for the generations of hydrogen systems that will come tomorrow. Our HEF industrialization teams have developed an automated, high-productivity, in-line treatment machine based on our validated surface application process. This robust, high-performance machine is designed to overcome the challenges of hydrogen production and ensure cost-optimization at the same time
An initial pilot plant has been opened and production has commenced in France. It is located in the vicinity of our corporate headquarters. This pilot plant has been commissioned to meet the growing needs of our customers with regard to equipment coatings for hydrogen technology. Large-scale deployment is planned for early 2025.
If you would like to learn more, come and meet with our experts at the forthcoming events:
Key Account Days, the 1st of October in Lyon, France
The Carnot meetings, 16 October at the Palais des Congrès de Massy, France
A3TS (Association of thermal treatment & surface treatment) 16 October at the Maison de la Mécanique de Courbevoie (Courbevoie House of Mechanical Engineering) in Courbevoie, France
CHFE (Hydrogen Energy & Fuel Cell Technology and Product Expo, 18-20 October in Foshan China
Hydrogen Technology Expo Europe, 23-24 October at Hamburg Messe, Germany
