Fuel Cell Powered Forklift Project
The fuel cell forklift project intends to demonstrate a proposed conversion of forklift powering technology, from conventional lead-acid batteries to environmentally friendly hydrogen proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell. Initiated in May 2007 and completed in March 2009, the design and prototyping phases of this project have been carried out jointly by ICHET and the Turkish forklift manufacturer Çumitaş.
The H2 Ecolift is based on a vehicle donated and retrofitted by Çumitaş in order to accommodate the power pack provided and integrated by ICHET – a 1 tonne self-contained energy unit comprizing a 7 kW PEM fuel cell and a hydrogen tank.
It is served by hydrogen refuelling facilities purchased from a local hydrogen distribution firm, consisting of a nozzle connected to a manifold of 15 pressurized hydrogen cylinders linked in series. Preliminary tests have demonstrated both improved overall performance and an extended run time between fills, which together significantly increase the forklift’s productivity, thus proving that the same service can be operated in a more efficient way through the use of inovative technology.
Moreover, if the hydrogen is produced from a renewable energy source, the overall carbon footprint of the forklift is drastically reduced.
As a unique item for technology demonstration, the H2 Ecolift is being exhibited in public events and fairs throughout Istanbul as part of ICHET’s endeavour to raise awareness and acceptance of hydrogen energy technologies.
Project features
Fuel cell specifications
- Dimensions: 681x975x579 mm
- Weight: 1080 kg
- Nominal voltage/minimum FCPP output/maximum FCPP output: 48V/24V/80V
- Maximum current output: 1000A
- Maximum continuous power: 7 kW at 21 °C
The forklift powered by this hydrogen fuel cell power pack has a capacity to hold up and carry goods weighing up to 1.5 tonnes.
