Best submarine energy storage technology

Which technology is suitable for a small submarine?

For submarines, as another underwater application, metal hydrides and compressed hydrogen storage are suitable for small to medium-sized submarines. However, reforming technology, which provides onboard hydrogen production, combined with PEM fuel cell is decidedly suitable for large-scale submarines as Air Independent Propulsion system.

Which hydride storage systems are suitable for small submarines?

Compressed, and metal hydride-based H 2 storages are suitable for small to medium submarines. The most critical development in conventional underwater applications in recent years is to use hydrogen energy systems, including Air Independent Propulsion (AIP) systems.

What is a Subsea energy storage system?

The subsea energy storage system consists of the following main elements: storage units, a fluid transfer and refilling system, heating and circulation system, control and instrumentation, power supply, and structure and foundation. An example with a fixed platform with five 5,000 m³ storage units, gives a total storage volume of 25,000 m³.

What are the power plant options for non-nuclear submarines?

With the new emerging technologies, the amount of power plant options for non-nuclear submarines is increasing, especially for the submerged power supply. Fuel cell technology enables an air independent power supply, operating on pure hydrogen and pure oxygen. Lithium-ion batteries can be used as an alternative for the lead-acid batteries.

Which type of hydrogen supply is best for submarines?

However, the very first choice of hydrogen supply for submarines is still metal hydride-based storage of hydrogen for small to medium size because of capacity limitations . Therefore, onboard hydrogen production is preferable for large-sized submarines.

Why do submarines use a fuel cell system?

This is considered a large operational advantage for submarines. Both technologies are also already applied in actual operational submarines. For example, the German Type 212A submarines use a fuel cell system for air independent power supply and the Japanse Taigei class submarines have lithium-ion batteries installed.