
Poppe + Potthoff featured on Hyfindr Tech Talk
14.1.2025
Innovative Hydrogen Tank Valves for Mobility and Industry
Poppe + Potthoff (P+P) showcased its recently R134-certified hydrogen tank valves in the latest Hyfindr Tech Talk. During the discussion with Steven Oji, Burkhard Harhoff, Technical Director of New Business at P+P, introduced the On-Tank Valve (OTV) and the Thermal Pressure Relief Device (TPRD), both specially designed for hydrogen systems. These tank valves are part of the TOPAQ hydrogen distribution system, a modular solution that ensures safe and efficient hydrogen flow from the tank to the fuel cell or hydrogen engine.
The On-Tank Valve is mounted on individual tank cylinders but also enables the parallel refueling of multiple tanks via a distribution rail (PCU or manifold). Depending on the system, refueling can occur at 350 or 700 bar. Thanks to innovative flow design and flow rates with Kv values > 0.28, the OTV ensures short refueling times. Additionally, the optimized hydrogen inflow prevents hotspots within the tank cylinders. The Thermal Pressure Relief Device (TPRD) ensures targeted and rapid degassing in the event of a fire, preventing uncontrolled hydrogen release. It can be installed in various valve configurations via a standardized interface: in the OTV, as an End Plug TPRD, or as a Remote TPRD. While the OTV is positioned at the front and the End Plug TPRD at the rear of the tank cylinder, the Remote TPRD is mounted on the side. This ensures the safe emptying of the tank system whenever the activation temperature is exceeded.
Paving the Way for Sustainable Mobility and Industry
In the interview, Steven Oji and Burkhard Harhoff also discussed future developments. By designing compact and multifunctional valve architectures, the safety and efficiency of hydrogen applications can be further enhanced. The primary goal is to simplify hydrogen infrastructure and reduce costs for broader adoption of hydrogen applications. Thanks to the modularity of its TOPAQ system solution, Poppe + Potthoff enables application-optimized system architectures for both mobile and industrial use, laying the foundation for decarbonizing these sectors.
From January 28 to 30, 2025, the P+P team, led by Burkhard Harhoff, will present the TOPAQ hydrogen distribution system at the international trade fair HyVolution in Paris. Visit Poppe + Potthoff at booth 4L58 to learn more about the future of hydrogen applications!
Click here to watch the Hyfindr Tech Talk with Burkhard Harhoff!