Airbus in hydrogen seals link-up with Trelleborg

Trelleborg, Sweden - Trelleborg Sealing Solutions has partnered with Airbus to develop sealing technology in support of the plane maker’s decarbonisation goals.

The Swedish group is developing seals for the Airbus ZEROe project, which aims to introduce the world’s first hydrogen-powered commercial aircraft by 2035.

The project is enabling Airbus to explore a variety of configurations and hydrogen technologies that will shape the future of low-carbon flight, said Trelleborg's 17 July announcement. 

“Hydrogen provides an opportunity to make flying a more sustainable mode of transport,” commented Torben Anderson, Trelleborg director aerospace, in the release.

However, he pointed out, as the smallest molecule typically used in cryogenic conditions hydrogen presents significant sealing challenges.

Trelleborg is, therefore, “bringing all its experience as a leading global supplier of sealing solutions to the ZEROe project.”

Cryogenic testing

To develop the necessary technology, a high-pressure cryogenic test rig has been designed and built at the Trelleborg Sealing Solutions facility in the UK.

 According to the company, Bridgwater is a recognised centre of excellence for metal, spring-energised seals widely used by the oil & gas industry,

 Trials of more flexible polymer materials at low temperatures are now ongoing, said Peter Bashford, product leader at Bridgwater.

 “Initial testing has yielded several very promising, sealing concepts and we are confident we will deliver a leap forward in the understanding of cryogenic sealing technology.”