TWI Digital Library

As the development and implementation of hydrogen fuel systems gains momentum, the production of containers capable of ensuring optimal conditions for hydrogen transportation and storage has become a focal point across various industry sectors. In the pursuit of sustainable solutions, friction stir welding (FSW) emerges as a compelling joining technology, particularly for the production of liquid hydrogen storage tanks for the aviation sector. Initial work performed, as part of the ongoing MASTER project funded by Innovate UK (IUK) under the ATI Programme, has focused on developing welding parameters aimed at achieving industry-standard joint efficiency, while minimising distortion for different aluminium alloys and thicknesses, with a primary emphasis on flat test specimens. Presently, efforts are focused on specialised tooling to fabricate cylindrical structures that will subsequently be joined to domes, culminating in the creation of functional liquid hydrogen storage tanks.

13th International Symposium, 21-23 May 2024, Session 4: Applications, Paper 02