Milestone with new stack robot for technology market leader Proton Motor Fuel Cell GmbH

In Proton Motor´s innovative fuel cell system the fuel cell stack is embedded in a module as a core or significant centrepiece. The stacking robot can increase production capacity up to 5,000 till 10,000 fuel cell units per year. This milestone in the company’s more than 20-year history is a response to the increased demand from industry for hydrogen fuel cells, which is clearly reflected in the current cooperation agreements and strategic partnerships. The manufacturing robot was realised as part of the project "Fit-4-AMandA" (Fit for Automatic Manufacturing and Assembly) and financed by the European agency "FCH-JU" (Fuel Cells and Hydrogen Joint Undertaking). Proton Motor was one of five participants which participated in the development and rigorous testing program to perfect the robot’s performance and capacity. In order to meet the increasing demand in the coming years, Proton, the fuel cell specialist has worked with the manufacturer to draw up plans for the optional expansion of production. When configured with a slightly changed machine layout, production can be expanded to 30,-50,000 stack units per year.

Proton Motor`s chairman Mister Helmut Gierse said during his opening speech: “We are very pleased with this important milestone for our company as it makes a significant contribution to our manufacturing capability and enables Proton Motor to cope with larger volume orders before the end of 2020." The "Gen4" (fourth generation) stack module for the modular and standardised hydrogen fuel cell will be able to meet the expected demand, which, according to management, can be described as making a significant contribution to world-saving global climate protection. Proton Motor´s contribution for industrial solutions is to be made available for mobile (buses, trucks, etc.), stationary (power generation, standby and continuous current), for maritime (yachts, ships) as well as for rail applications.