Consortium reviews key achievements at halfway milestone
From 16 -17 July 2025, the DelHyVEHR consortium gathered at Trelleborg’s facilities in Clermont-Ferrand for its 18-Month General Assembly – marking the halfway point in this ambitious project aimed at advancing liquid hydrogen (LH₂) refuelling technology for heavy-mobility applications.
The meeting provided an opportunity for all partners to review the current status of the project, strengthen collaboration, and present significant technical and strategic achievements made across all work packages.
Technical achievements
Pump design
The first design of the cryogenic centrifugal pump -developed to transfer the liquid hydrogen to heavy-duty applications- has been completed. Computational simulations show that the pump performance exceeds expectations, with experimental validation planned as the next step.
Loading and dispensing system
The system for loading and dispensing the liquid hydrogen has advanced as well. The initial loading line design has been completed, and flexible hoses have been manufactured and tested. The development of a second design is now underway. Moreover, first tests on sealing solutions for safely transferring LH₂ have been performed, and an advanced design for a Quick Connect/Disconnect Coupling (QCDC) system has been achieved. Additionally, requirements and protocols for reliable, accurate measurements of LH₂ flowrates – vital for fair trade in gas production and distribution across Europe- have been defined, and suitable flowmeters have been benchmarked and selected.
Boil-Off Gas (BOG) management
The modelling of Boil-Off Gas (BOG) –referring to the evaporation of hydrogen – is progressing well. This work is essential for predicting the generation of BOG, which can lead to dangerous pressure build-up and cause economic and environmental impacts. The main BOG sources have been identified and calculated, and management concepts and suitable technologies have been selected to control evaporation.
Large-Scale Liquid Hydrogen Refuelling Station (LS-LHRS) design & demonstration
The High-Level Requirements of a generic refuelling station have been defined, including the overall layout and procedures, with innovative concepts to reduce BOG losses and decrease distribution costs. On the demonstrator side, a recirculating concept for the test bench has been validated, enabling longer test durations while minimizing the LH₂ consumption. Together with the finalisation of the procurement of components for the station, this progress is paving the way for the first refuelling demonstrations.
Safety & standards management
Regarding the safe handling of liquid hydrogen during testing, a test bench safety plan has been validated by local authorities. In addition, a modelling of incidents at the refuelling station has been conducted to assess potential consequences and define appropriate mitigation measures and safety zones.
An analysis of the existing regulations, codes and standards (RCS) related to LH₂ safety has been conducted as well, identifying gaps that will be addressed as the project progresses.
Impact assessment
A Class IV estimate of the CAPEX of the refuelling station has been completed, indicating that the contribution of distribution to the levelized cost of hydrogen (LCOH) could be below the target of €1.5/kg for mature maritime and aviation applications. Additionally, a comprehensive market study on LH₂ development for heavy mobility and refuelling stations has been conducted. Existing policies and funding schemes related to LH₂ development were identified, leading to targeted policy recommendations for future support and growth of the sector.
Guided tour and networking
In addition to the technical sessions, the partners visited Trelleborg’s facilities, getting a first-hand look at their capabilities and innovations that are vital to advancing the DelHyVEHR project. The day ended with a dinner in the old town of Clermont-Ferrand, offering the chance for informal exchanges and team bonding.
Onward to phase two
Looking ahead, the next stage of the project will be dedicated to the construction of the test station at the demonstration site of ArianeGroup in Vernon, France – enabling the consortium to bring the developed technologies into practical application. Thus, the focus will shift toward hands-on testing, validation, and integration as the project enters its second half.
