JFE launches Type 2 accumulator for hydrogen stations

Japan’s JFE, one of the world-leading steel producer, has launched JFE Type 2 accumulator. The first domestically produced type 2 pressure storage accumulator was installed at Toyota Toyoe Hydrogen Station in Aichi Prefecture in December 2020.

The accumulator has a wide pressure range and can supply hydrogen in a large amount to a fuel cell vehicle (FCV). JFE expects that the accumulator has a scope in fuel cell buses and hydrogen stations which requires a large quantity of hydrogen. The company anticipates that demand for accumulators will rise in the future as FCVs adoption increases.

Looking into details of the materials used in making the accumulator, it is designed by JFE Container Co Ltd by using the steel pipe used by JFE Steel Corp and its body is wrapped with carbon fibre made by Mitsubishi Chemical. Both steel and carbon fibre optimally shares the pressure resistance, ensuring a long and safe life.

JFE Steel and JFE Container have commercialised the cost-effective and large-capacity Type 1 accumulator for hydrogen stations in 2019. Type 1 accumulator is produced by using an extra-thick seamless steel pipe. The target markets are small stations which are looking for cost-effective solutions.