Nikkiso Delivers Liquefied Hydrogen Pump Skid to Support Japan's Hydrogen Infrastructure Expansion

Nikkiso Co., Ltd., a cryogenic pump manufacturer since 1953, has delivered a liquefied hydrogen (LH2) pump skid to a consortium led by Kawasaki Heavy Industries and Kobe Steel for deployment in Hyogo Prefecture. The modular skid is designed to transfer super-cooled hydrogen from storage tanks into distribution lines and fuel cell vehicle refueling stations across the region.

The self-contained unit features pumps, valves, sensors, and triple-layer insulation to handle hydrogen at approximately –253 °C while minimizing heat loss and boil-off. The skid's modular design allows for parallel installation to increase throughput, and includes remote diagnostics compatible with SCADA systems for monitoring and maintenance without operational shutdowns.

The delivery represents progress in Japan's hydrogen roadmap, established by 2017 legislation, which aims to reduce carbon emissions and strengthen energy security by mid-century. Japan has conducted pilot projects including the HySTRA program in Hokkaido and the Fukushima Hydrogen Energy Research Field, while the Suiso Frontier tanker has demonstrated international LH2 transport from Australia.

The partnership leverages Nikkiso's cryogenic expertise, Kawasaki Heavy Industries' LH2 carrier and fuel cell technology, and Kobe Steel's specialty alloys and insulation materials. The deployment is expected to provide local workforce development in LH2 handling and potentially set safety benchmarks for hydrogen infrastructure standards.

Originally reported by Hydrogen Fuel News. Read the full article →