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Liquid hydrogen (LH2) is increasingly recognized as a pivotal component of future energy strategies, particularly in sectors demanding high energy density and extensive range, such as aerospace, maritime and long-haul transportation. LH2's superior energy density compared to gaseous hydrogen is advantageous for storage and transport of energy, albeit it presents unique technical challenges due to its cryogenic storage requirements and evaporation losses. Advanced simulation models are an essential pillar for addressing these challenges, aiding in advancement and scaling of hydrogen technologies.
By expanding H2VPATT, HyCentA’s existing simulation toolkit for gaseous hydrogen storage systems, to LH2 use, the newly developed “LH2VPATT” is born. Essential components such as pipes, T-pieces and valves are adapted for liquid hydrogen flow. The heart of toolkit is the 0D liquid hydrogen tank model, which was validated with experimental data.
Through two-phase modelling of the gaseous and liquid hydrogen phases in all components within the database, the toolkit allows for calculation of gaseous, liquid, sub-cooled (sLH2) as well as cryo-compressed (cCH2) hydrogen filling processes. Furthermore, dispenser-to-tank as well as tank-to-tank filling scenarios can be modelled.
The toolkit's ability to model LH2 scenarios is crucial for efficient refueling and design of storage system topologies. By utilizing LH2VPATT's flexible and modular design, engineers can easily simulate the dynamic behaviors of LH2 under various conditions, from storage pressures to mass flow rates, all within a user-friendly environment.
LH2VPATT’s component database, featuring nozzles, receptacles, and tanks allows for implementation of manufacturer data of real-world components for LH2 use, providing researchers and engineers with accurate, reliable data to drive design decisions. Additionally, the toolkit's drag-and-drop library simplifies the process of building and iterating complex designs, making it accessible to users with varying levels of expertise.
Moreover, the continuous development of the simulation toolkit ensures that it remains at the cutting edge of technology, with new features and components regularly added.

Impact and effects

Through rigorous simulation linked with experimental validation, LH2VPATT enhances the understanding and handling of LH2, thereby supporting the scale-up and commercialization of hydrogen as a clean energy carrier. Its contributions are vital not only in solving today's technical challenges but also in paving the way for the next generation of hydrogen-based energy solutions.

Project partner

• Graz University of Technology – Institute of Thermodynamics and Sustainable Propulsion Systems, AUT
• MAGNA STEYR Fahrzeugtechnik GmbH & Co KG, AUT
• OMV Downstream GmbH, AUT
• TÜV SÜD Landesgesselschaft Österreich GmbH, AUT
• voestalpine BÖHLER Edelstahl GmbH & Co KG, AUT

This success story was provided by the centre management and by the mentioned project partners for the purpose of being published on the FFG website. HyCentA COMET Center is a COMET Centre within the COMET – Competence Centers for Excellent Technologies Programme and funded by BMIMI, BMWET, provinces of Styria, Upper Austria, Tyrol, and Vienna and the SFG. The COMET Programme is managed by FFG. Further information on COMET: www.ffg.at/comet