The pressure on heavy industries to meet decarbonization goals is increasing and electric powertrains are more efficient, require less maintenance, and produce zero emissions when in use. To meet the requirements of round-the-clock, high-energy usage in difficult environments, hydrogen internal combustion engines (H2-ICE) offer the most suitable solution.
Stoichiometric, spark-ignited hydrogen combustion engines have been shown to respond twice as slowly as a conventional diesel engine during torque transients. They also exhibit a 30% lower peak torque. The performance limitations of hydrogen combustion engine technology underscore the need for a comprehensive systems approach; a combination of hydraulics and control systems architectures addresses these challenges effectively.
The Multi Pressure Rail (MPR) system is a type of hydraulic design that manages pressure across several rails to meet different needs within a machine. By using multiple pressure rails, various hydraulic components can work at the pressure level required for their function. The system uses pressure control logic to connect pumps and motors to actuators through two rails, allowing hydraulic power to be directed where it is needed.
High, medium, and low-pressure rails are available, and a switching valve moves the supply and return lines to the right rail based on commands from the supervisory controller. A metering valve can also adjust the speed of the actuator. This setup makes it possible to achieve different torque and force outputs by combining various inlet and outlet pressure levels.
Often, effective solutions come from looking at the entire system rather than focusing on individual parts. Hydrogen engines, especially in off-highway vehicles, demand high torque, which can be better managed by viewing the hydraulic system as a whole. In this way, the MPR system is well-suited to hydrogen-powered construction equipment and other off-highway uses.
To discover the latest innovations and trends in zero-emissions off-highway machines, meet with solution providers and hear talks from industry leaders, attend DZOMUSA – the 7th Design and Development of Zero-emissions Off-highway Machinery Summit taking place in Louisville, Kentucky, USA on December 10-11, 2025.
For more information, visit our website or email us at info@innovatrix.eu for the event agenda. Visit our LinkedIn to stay up to date on our latest speaker announcements and event news.
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