70,000th unit for Ariel

HOERBIGER Hydrogen Compressor Package (HCP500) featuring the Ariel KBH compressor. The package was unveiled at the newly opened Trnava Packaging Facility in Slovakia. (Image: Ariel)

An Ariel Corp. KBH compressor for hydrogen will be the company’s 70,000th compressor shipped since the company’s founding in 1966.

The company has teamed up with one of its European packaging partners, Hoerbiger, to package their first commercial KBH compressor which will ship to H2Mobility in Germany later this year.

Ariel Corp. and Hoerbiger have embarked on a collaborative mission to deliver hydrogen compression equipment that the companies said will set the standard for cost effective compression of hydrogen for storage, transport, and fueling, fulfilling near future market needs.

The KBH compressor leverages their experience in serving global energy markets including legacy hydrogen applications in refinery, petrochemical, industrial and other niche markets.

The vertically-oriented reciprocating compressor is designed to meet the required pressure and mechanical availability demands that are not currently available in the hydrogen mobility market. The KBH high-flow compression solution can handle various inlet and outlet pressures for multiple hydrogen applications. It is capable of compressing hydrogen gas to pressures up to 7,250 psig (500 barg) with over 250 kg/hr for trailer filling, hydrogen mobility, and other hydrogen storage and transport needs.

The compressor is designed to be non-lubricated to maintain high gas purity, featuring the latest advanced materials allowing for optimal compression efficiency and reliability, Ariel said.

To maintain high gas purity, the KBH does not require cylinder lubrication and features the latest advanced materials to help ensure optimal compression efficiency and reliability. To validate performance and component life, a KBH compressor is currently in operation at Ariel’s state-of-the-art hydrogen test facility in Mount Vernon, Ohio. Running on 100% hydrogen, it is accumulating run hours at its full rated speed and discharge pressure.

What’s in a Name?

In keeping with family tradition, Ariel continues their unique model naming convention by naming its newest compressor the KBH, in honor of Karen Buchwald Wright and in memory of her late son, Hunter N. Wright.

Karen Buchwald Wright previously held the position of president and CEO and currently serves as Ariel’s Chairman of the Board. She is the daughter of founder Jim Buchwald.

Hunter N. Wright, who worked for Ariel starting in 2015 as director of Corporate Quality before being promoted to resident, passed away in 2021 after a valiant battle with cancer. Having been involved with its initial planning, it’s fitting to name one of Ariel’s most innovative products, and 70,000th milestone, in memory of Hunter and the influence he had on those who knew him.

Specs box

KBH Specifications

Suction Pressure 370 psig (25 bar)

Discharge Pressure 7,250 psig (500 bar)

Flow at design point 250 kg/hr

Number of Stages 4

Stroke 4.25 in (108 mm)

Max RPM 1,000

Images:

Ariel Wright

Alex and Sam Wright alongside serial number 70,000, an Ariel KBH, before shipment to Slovakia.