- With nearly 30 years of expertise in cryogenic valves and sensors, TEST-FUCHS participates in the project through various technical actions, bringing extensive experience in EU projects
Research in hydrogen tanks and refuelling systems for aviation is advancing rapidly, yet a significant challenge persists across different initiatives: the lack of a straightforward and safe process to fill small tanks or liquid hydrogen (LH2) demonstrators with LH2. Currently, LH2 is primarily delivered via large trailers designed for filling up sizable tanks or through stationary large-scale LH2 tanks that require dedicated filling stations. This logistical gap complicates the development and testing of smaller-scale solutions.
To address this challenge, the ALRIGH2HT is stepping in with an innovative approach. Backed by a consortium of technical partners, including TEST-FUCHS—a leading engineering company specializing in the design, development, and manufacturing of advanced solutions in sectors like aerospace—the project aims to enable flexible and safe filling and draining scenarios.
Driving aircraft solutions through test systems, components, and global capabilities
TEST-FUCHS was founded in 1946 by Fritz Fuchs, who began developing and producing test equipment for both civil and military aviation applications. Over the past 30 years, the family-owned company—now in its third generation—has expanded its portfolio to focus on aviation and space components, particularly in fuel supply. With its headquarters in Austria, the company maintains subsidiaries across the globe, ensuring a strong presence in key markets.
The company’s product range is divided into three main activities:
- Test Systems: Standardized, modular, and customized test equipment (including test stands, rigs, and benches) and ground support equipment (GSE) for aviation OEMs and MROs.
- Aerospace Components: Development, production, and maintenance of pumps, valves, cryogenic valves, and sensors.
- Global Support: Providing maintenance, repair, and calibration services for test equipment.
The company has extensive experience in cryogenic valves and sensors, beginning with the development of shut-off valves for the Ariane 5 program. Over the years, the company’s portfolio has grown to include valves and sensors for liquid hydrogen, helium, and oxygen applications. They have also contributed to various projects involving demonstrators, prototypes, and small series production, supporting industries such as research (CERN), space exploration (Ariane 6), and automotive/trucks.
In recent years, TEST-FUCHS has intensified its research and development activities to deepen its knowledge and expand its product portfolio for hydrogen and liquid hydrogen applications.
Advanced aircraft components and systems expertise
TEST-FUCHS is a leading company in the aerospace industry, specializing in the development, manufacture, and maintenance of highly specialized components and systems. With its strong core competence in aerospace components and systems, as well as test systems, the entity plays a key role in various projects, including the ALRIGH2T initiative.
They contribute to the following areas:
The project benefits from the expertise of several key personnel at the company. Andreas Strohmer leads the initiative, supported by Ines Ringseis, Birgit Draxler (specializing in electrical design and sensors), Michael Strommer (focused on PLC systems), and Johannes Stumvoll (Software HMI).
Industry knowledge enabling ALRIGH2T
With a vast experience in European projects, TEST-FUCHS is bringing its knowledge to ALRIGH2T in order to apply good practices and ensure the successful implementation of advanced hydrogen refueling solutions.
- H2-WAM-Tank focused on the design and prototyping of a cryogenic LH2 tank using Wire Arc Manufacturing (WAM) technology. It includes material tests for LH2 under both medium and environmental conditions, which are highly relevant to the ALRIGH2T initiative.
- LHYTAMAN is centred on the development of a metallic vacuum-insulated LH2 tank and a dedicated valve system. SAG Group, a partner of ALRIGH2T, supplies the LH2 tank for LHYTAMAN. A similar tank, though with different dimensions and a comparable valve management system, will be utilized in ALRIGH2T.
- FLHYing Tank targets the development of a 1000-liter flight-load-bearing vacuum-insulated composite LH2 tank, which was flight-tested on the Pipistrel Nuuva V300 cargo UAV.
- H2ELIOS aims to develop scalable, large-size, lightweight LH2 storage solutions for aviation applications.
- NEWBORN addresses the development of a complete multi-MW LH2 propulsion system powered by a fuel cell.
In addition, the company has been a key player in industrial development since the late 1980s, contributing to the European Launcher Program Ariane 5. In 2014, TEST-FUCHS Aerospace Systems began development and prototype production activities for the Ariane 5ME (now Ariane 6) propulsion equipment. The company’s recognized expertise in cryogenics led to its selection as a key partner in the new European launch system, Ariane 6.
With their long-standing experience in European programs, TEST-FUCHS continues to drive innovation and deliver practical solutions that support ALRIGH2T’s goals of advancing hydrogen-based aviation technologies.
