- Can you tell us a bit about your role within the COCOLIH₂T project and what Work Package 4 and 5 focus on?
Jorge – Within COCOLIH₂T I am both a work package and task manager. Therefore I must coordinate the work of the different consortium partners within work package 5. In work package 5 we are developing the different subsystems which allow for the filling and emptying of the tank, as well as it’s monitoring. Within my task I am developing the controller subsystem, which controls and manages the (de)fuelling process and coalesces all sensor inputs to allow for effective and safe operations.
Arne – Like Jorge, I’m operating as a work package manager in COCOLIH2T, focusing on thermal and pressure management. Since LH2 tank design is a multi-faced challenge, interaction between the thermal team and mechanical team has been a crucial part of the developments.
- What has been one of the most interesting or unexpected challenges so far, and how did you and/or your team approach it?
Jorge – The most challenging development for us has been dealing with our subsystems’ operations in the cryogenic environment, both from functionality and safety standpoints. To fulfill this we have followed courses from experts in order to ensure compliance with regulations for Equipment for potentially explosive atmospheres (ATEX).
Arne – For the thermal part, the introduction of metal interfaces to the composite tank has been most challenging and rewarding. Additionally the “thermal bridging” and leak tightness has been a challenge, which matched well with our teams’ background expertise in space thermal management for equipment on board of ISS.
- What are some key lessons or takeaways you’ve gained from working on COCOLIH₂T?
Jorge – That the safety of our operators is paramount and no shortcuts will be taken there. With experimental technology this sometimes requires a pragmatic approach, where rather than full certification of integrated equipment, detailed analyses are conducted to assure safe operations.
Arne – Couldn’t agree more with Jorge here. Although challenging at some times, the pragmatic approaches here have been a key driver of success in the program.
- Looking ahead, how do you think this project could shape future research or industry practices?
Jorge – While most of the project’s outcomes relate to composite design, at NLR we have also learned a lot relating to optical and low-thermal-conducting sensing technologies. Thanks to our work in COCOLIH₂T, we have successfully advanced the TRL of these technologies such that they can be implemented in cryogenic environments outside the lab, further positioning the EU for zero-emission aviation.
Arne – There’s many improvements to be made still, but I’m glad that with COCOLIH2T we have been and remain at the forefront of entry into service of H2-aircraft.
- If you could describe the COCOLIH₂T project in three words, what would they be — and why?
Innovative – since we are working with new technologies which have not been commercialised yet, but will become part of the future of clean aviation technology
Flexible – due to the complexities involved with the manufacturing of the composite tank, we have had to remain flexible in development and testing
Forward-thinking – (does a hyphen count?!) We are developing technology for the future of aviation, not immediately applicable. Our teams’ capabilities to look beyond current applications has helped us in reaching the next step.