Langley Holdings has acquired GKN Hydrogen, an Italian hydrogen storage and power-to-power specialist, from Dowlais Group. Based in Pfalzen, northern Italy, with subsidiaries in Germany and the USA, GKN Hydrogen is pioneering an innovative solid-state technology for the safe storage of hydrogen. In another development within the Langley group, subsidiary Bergen Engines of Norway is striding toward development of a 100% hydrogen-fueled engine.
Formerly part of GKN Powder Metallurgy, a division of Dowlais Group plc, GKN Hydrogen has brought together materials science and engineering to create advanced metal hydride compounds. The technology captures and stores hydrogen in a solid-state form at 16 times the density of compressed hydrogen gas without degradation for up to 30 years, according to company literature. Hydrogen is converted back to a gas when required by heating the hydride to 60°C (140°F). The company has proven the system over 7,000 charge/discharge cycles with 99% efficiency.
“This acquisition underscores Langley Holdings’ strategic focus on sustainable energy solutions and commitment to a greener future,” said Anthony Langley, chairman and CEO of Langley Holdings. GKN Hydrogen becomes part of Langley ‘s Power Solutions Division.
More about GKN Hydrogen
GKN Hydrogen aims to transform the way energy is stored while decarbonizing industrial processes, power plants and infrastructure. Prioritizing safety, minimal footprint and easy integration, project efficiency is optimized, says the company. Depending on requirements, the green hydrogen can be used directly or converted back into electricity and heat. The systems generate green hydrogen from fluctuating renewable energy sources, storing it compactly and safely in metal hydride over long periods of time.
About Langley Holdings
Langley Holdings plc is a privately owned UK-based engineering and industrial manufacturing group, principally producing capital equipment for diverse markets worldwide. The group operates in three principal areas: power solutions, print technologies and other industrials. Operations are based in Germany, Italy, France, the UK and Norway, with 18 production facilities in Europe, the UK and the USA. The group operates more than 90 sales and service subsidiaries worldwide and employs around 5,000+ people. Langley Holdings was established in 1975 by the current Chairman & CEO, Anthony Langley and remains entirely in family ownership.
About Power Solutions
The Power Solutions Division comprises Bergen Engines, the Norwegian medium-speed engine builder; Marelli Motori, the Italian producer of electric motors and generators and; Piller Group, Europe’s leading producer of critical power conditioning, stabilization and backup systems based in Germany.
In 2024, the Power Solutions Division will account for approximately half of the Group’s $1.5 billion revenues and 5,000+ employees.
In late June, Bergen Engines, a specialist in medium-speed engine technology for land and marine applications, announced the latest development in their natural gas engine range, now accommodating a 25% hydrogen blend without modification. Building on the successful commercialization of a 15% hydrogen blend in 2022, the advancement marks a significant step toward the company’s goal to reach 100% hydrogen capability by the end of this year.
“Our commitment to innovation and sustainability drives us to continually improve our engine technologies,” said Jon Erik Rov, Managing Director of Bergen Engines. “The ready-to-sell offering of a 25% hydrogen blend engine is a testament to our dedication to providing cleaner and more efficient energy solutions. We are proud to offer our customers engines that not only meet their performance needs but also contribute to a greener future for our industry.”
The new 25% hydrogen blend underscores the company’s dedication to advancing cleaner energy technologies. Hydrogen, as a versatile and clean energy carrier, offers several key benefits when blended with natural gas in medium-speed engines:
- Reduced Emissions: Hydrogen blending significantly lowers CO2 emissions, contributing to a reduction in greenhouse gas output. This aligns with global efforts to combat climate change and helps customers meet stringent environmental regulations.
- Enhanced Efficiency: The higher hydrogen content improves the combustion efficiency of the engine. This results in better fuel economy and optimal performance without compromising power output.
- Fuel Flexibility: Bergen’s engines are designed to operate seamlessly with the new hydrogen blend, providing versatility and reliability in various operational settings. Whether in land-based power generation or marine propulsion, the 25% blend offers a robust and flexible solution.
- Sustainable Transition: By increasing the hydrogen content in the fuel mix, Bergen facilitates a smoother transition for industries aiming to adopt hydrogen as a primary fuel source in the future. This progressive approach supports long-term sustainability goals.
A Vision for a 100% Hydrogen-Fueled Future
In their research and development testing facility, located at the headquarter office outside of Bergen, engineers are working toward the development of a 100% hydrogen-fueled engine by the end of this year, and report they are on track to reach their goal.
“This ambitious goal drives us to continually test higher volumes of hydrogen, enhancing our engines’ efficiency and stability at increased hydrogen percentages,” says Therese Aalhus, Head of Engineering. “Our mission is to offer greener alternatives without sacrificing the efficiency and power generation that the industry demands. I’m incredibly proud of our team and impressed with our work so far to maintain stability as we reach higher volumes of hydrogen.”
