Compact, high-pressure heat exchangers enable fast hydrogen fuelling for all vehicle types.
Alfa Laval has introduced its new HyBloc range of printed circuit heat exchangers, designed specifically for hydrogen precooling in high-capacity refuelling stations. With hydrogen-powered mobility expanding across both light and heavy-duty transport, HyBloc aims to support efficient, high-speed fuelling with no downtime between sessions.
The HyBloc units are engineered to handle high operating pressures up to 1,250 bar (18,125 psi) and temperatures as low as -196°C (-320.8°F). This enables them to meet current H70 refuelling standards at 700 bar and prepare for future high-pressure systems. Their compact, fusion-bonded construction allows continuous cooling for back-to-back vehicle fills, minimizing waiting time.
Compared to traditional shell-and-tube heat exchangers, HyBloc units are approximately 85% smaller. This small footprint simplifies integration into existing dispensers and eliminates the need for underground installation, making them suitable for urban or space-limited hydrogen stations.
The product line includes seven standard models: four for liquid cooling (HyBloc) and three for carbon dioxide-based vaporizing cooling (HyBloc C). Alfa Laval also offers engineered-to-order units, customizable by cooling medium and performance requirements.
"One of the greatest challenges in transitioning to hydrogen fuel vehicles is establishing the necessary infrastructure and ensuring reliable, high-quality technology that integrates seamlessly with existing systems," said Ron Faber, Product Leader for Printed Circuit Heat Exchangers at Alfa Laval. "HyBloc is small, modular, scalable, and designed to fit easily into existing dispensers. We believe that this new level of accessibility will play a significant role in accelerating the transition to clean hydrogen in vehicles all over the world."
HyBloc systems are supported by Alfa Laval’s global service network, including assistance with installation, commissioning, and ongoing maintenance. The company emphasizes its production capacity to meet increasing market demand as hydrogen refuelling infrastructure scales up worldwide.