Hydrogen fuel cells and electrolyzers
Scalable and future-forward
As the world works toward a carbon-free future, the demand for hydrogen fuel cells (HFC) is growing, expanding into new applications in industry and power generation. The scalability of fuel cell stacks makes them a flexible and future-forward solution for everything from replacing combustion engines in electric vehicles to large-scale, multi-megawatt installations that supply electricity directly to the utility grid.
Benefits of hydrogen fuel cells
- Low-to-zero emissions
- High efficiency and reliability
- Durability and scalability
- Quiet operation
Prevent losses in the energy value chain
As promising as they are, many fuel cell systems experience significant losses in the energy value chain. Fortunately, the right SWEP brazed plate heat exchangers (BPHE), in the right place, can help minimize these losses. We’re here to help our customers develop the innovative solutions that will enable them to reap the full benefits of emerging hydrogen fuel cell technologies.
Generate power. Balance the grid.
HFCs can be used both to generate power and to balance the electricity grid. They are especially effective for:
- Centralized power, including storage
- Distributed and back-up power, including off-grid
- As an energy carrier and storage medium
Thermal management of HFC systems
SWEP BPHEs play an important role in the thermal management of hydrogen fuel cells and can have a significant effect on their electrical conversion efficiency, longevity, and operation. In proton-exchange-membrane (PEM) fuel cells specifically, SWEP BPHEs are vital to maintaining a narrow operating temperature range, (between 60 °C and 85 °C), as well as for cooling the fuel cell stack.
SWEP TECHNOLOGY
Low pressure drop, high corrosion resistance
SWEP BPHEs maintain a consistent pressure throughout operation, with a very small pressure drop. And because they are constructed of 100% pure stainless steel, they are also highly corrosion resistant, eliminating the risk of contaminating the deionized water in the system.
A fit for every need
SWEP has been supplying producers of proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells with copper-free heat exchangers for stack cooling and exhaust gas heat recovery for more than a decade. We also supply BPHEs in a wide range of capacities for fuel-processing equipment.
A vital resource
Hydrogen is vital to global industry. It can be used as fuel for transport in heavy-duty and material-handling vehicles, and for long-distance transport including bus, rail, aviation and marine. It is also important as a feedstock for industry, such as refineries and steel manufacturing, and is the core of hydrogen fuel cell (HFC) power generation.
Sustainability
CLEAN ENERGY
Green hydrogen
When used as a fuel, hydrogen is an energy carrier, like electricity. Also, like electricity, it can be produced using greenhouse gas-neutral energy, including solar and wind power. During peak production hours, excess renewable electricity can be used to generate hydrogen through electrolysis. That hydrogen can then be used in stationary fuel cells for power generation or stored as a compressed gas, cryogenic liquid, or one of a wide variety of loosely-bonded hydride compounds.
Electrolysis
Electrolysis, which uses electricity to split water into separate hydrogen and oxygen molecules, is a promising option for producing carbon-free hydrogen. Electrolyzers, where electrolysis takes place, can range in size from small, appliance-like equipment to large-scale, central production facilities. For the hydrogen to be truly carbon-free, however, the electricity used for electrolysis must be generated from renewable or carbon-free sources.
SWEP TECHNOLOGY
Superior temperature control
The temperature control of the electrolytic tank, and the circulation volume of the electrolyte directly determine the purity of the hydrogen produced by water electrolysis. SWEP’s All-Stainless BPHE range are designed to adapt to different concentrations of electrolyte and are also ideal for recycling and cooling high-temperature gasses.
For electrolysis systems, SWEP BPHEs deliver:
- Exceptional corrosion resistance
- Highly efficient heat transfer
- Compact design
- Customized flexibility
Relevant products for Fuel cells and electroyzer applications
For more specific options use our selection software.
Copyright © 2025 SWEP International AB, a Dover company
Copyright © 2025 SWEP International AB, a Dover company