When it comes to innovation and supporting research, ABB has been a key contributor to various universities in need of advanced test systems supporting multiple research programs. Germany’s renowned technical institution RWTH Aachen University’s Institute of Jet Propulsion and Turbomachinery has been using ABB test systems to support its research pursuits. Recently ABB successfully commissioned a new test system supporting the institute’s fuel cell research program.
Fuel cell technology is primarily used in hydrogen-based energy production. With the advent of electric vehicles, fuel cell technology has gained prominence as electric vehicles running on hydrogen are viewed as a clean alternative to passenger cars with internal combustion engines.
ABB pioneering collaboration between industry and science
RWTH Aachen University’s Institute for Jet Propulsion and Turbomachinery host the oldest machine hall in Aachen which has been modernized to accommodate current research initiatives. In 2018, ABB received the order to supply a new test system for the institute’s fuel cell research program for Basement 1. The test stand is deployed for a fuel cell turbocharger, which is scaled in compliance with the Reynolds number similarity. Earlier, ABB has provided two similiar test benches for other research programs at the institute.
Drive line with ABB motor in the middle and two shafts for the existing BBC compressor in the back as well as the new test object in the front. ©ABB 
The electrification is located below the test stand in the basement, all the electrical installation was done by ABB as well. ©ABB 
Engineered ABB solution based on standard ABB products: local control of drives and transformer. ©ABB 
ABB has delivered a turnkey solution with a wide range of products from the ABB portfolio. ©ABB
“We have been deploying ABB’s portfolio of products for a long time on several of our test benches. Hence when it came to installing a test system for this application ABB was our choice and we are looking forward to continuing our collaboration with ABB that will shape the future of our institute,” noted Lukas Jilke working as a doctoral research assistant at the Institute of Jet Propulsion and Turbomachinery.
ABB Germany supplied the test system with up to 50,000 rpm test specimen speed and numerous interfaces for a wide range of products enabling the university to continue its research on fuel cell technology. This covers a huge scope of ABB’s product portfolio, including transformers by Hitachi (earlier ABB), an uninterruptable power supply, a low voltage AC inverter system and motor by ABB, combined with an automation system for control and measurement as well as involving partners for mechanics and hydraulics, all managed by the ABB project team.
“We had a long association with RWTH Aachen University and have been aware of their research pursuits. The successful delivery of this project will further strengthen our engagement with the university,” said Claudia Paeplow, project manager for test systems within Process Industries division ABB Germany.
Customizing complex solutions sets ABB apart
ABB has been customizing solutions keeping in mind customers’ requirements by using standard products and then working on them to fit the customers’ needs. This way it helps the customers to reduce operating expenses significantly without having to overhaul its complete systems. Such tailor-made solutions have helped ABB become a confident partner.
“We will be acting as a solution provider for turnkey and customized test bench systems in the R&D area in many different industries, for example at universities and research centers like RWTH as well as at industry R&D with global technology leaders,” Lukas Mix, sales for test systems and business development manager within Process Industries division ABB Germany, added.
Similarly, with RWTH’s fuel cell technology ABB customized the test system that will be easily adapted to the institute’s test rigs. In addition, ABB’s local service for the products and the test stand operator enables the researchers to navigate any challenges rising with the test system.
“At ABB we are focused on supporting and developing technologies that will lead to sustainable operations especially at a time when top energy-intensive industrial firms are opting for advanced digital solutions with lower emissions. RWTH’s work in this direction has been instrumental and as a technology pioneer we are looking forward to more such projects with many such institutes investing in technological advancement.” said Lukas Mix.
Process Automation business is a leader in automation, electrification and digitalization for the process and hybrid industries. We serve our customers with a broad portfolio of products, systems, and end-to-end solutions, including our #1 distributed control system, software, and lifecycle services, industry-specific products as well as measurement and analytics, marine and turbocharging offerings. As the global #2 in the market, we build on our deep domain expertise, diverse team and global footprint, and are dedicated to helping our customers increase competitiveness, improve their return on investment and run safe, smart, and sustainable operations.
ABB (ABBN: SIX Swiss Ex) is a leading global technology company that energizes the transformation of society and industry to achieve a more productive, sustainable future. By connecting software to its electrification, robotics, automation and motion portfolio, ABB pushes the boundaries of technology to drive performance to new levels. With a history of excellence stretching back more than 130 years, ABB’s success is driven by about 105,000 talented employees in over 100 countries. www.abb.com
