Department

Energy Converters and Systems

This research area focuses on novel concepts for the efficient generation of electrical, thermal and mechanical energy from fuels and renewable energy sources for maritime transport. For this purpose, renewable fuels are considered in energy converters, including fuel cell systems, combustion engines, gas turbines, and thermodynamic cycles for waste heat utilization.

Energy systems that directly harness renewable energy sources such as wind, solar and ocean energy are also being developed and optimized. The interactions between different energy converters and the corresponding effects on electrical and thermal distribution systems and consumers are also studied and evaluated.

Projects

Nautical Solid Oxide Fuel Cells: Testing and Demonstration

The HELENUS project is trialling a 500 kW solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) on an MSC World Europa-class cruise ship. This SOFC will be fully integrated into the ship's structure and will generate both electricity and heat, resulting in significant fuel savings compared to conventional combustion engines.

Research Project

Optimisation and Demonstration of Hydrogen-based Energy System

The objective of the LP II project is to investigate a coupled system comprising of fuel cell and metal hydride tank under real operational conditions. The Institute of Maritime Energy Systems will develop predictive maintenance strategies and algorithms for digital twin applications based on the comprehensive operational data.

Research project

Utilisation and Storage of Wind Energy in Maritime Transport

Together with the Helmholtz Centre Hereon, the institute conducted a feasibility study with the aim of using sails as the main propulsion system for maritime vessels. Energy recuperation and hydrogen storage were integrated into the propulsion system to ensure that ...

Contact

Dr. Dheeraj Gosala

Head of Department (commissarial)
German Aerospace Center
Institute of Maritime Energy Systems
Energy Converters and Systems
Düneberger Str. 108, 21502 Geesthacht
Germany