Hydrogen has long been touted as the future of the aviation industry as it explores cleaner, more sustainable energy sources. One area in which hydrogen fuel cells are already leading the way is in both crewed and uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAVs). In this blog, we’ll explore the benefits of hydrogen fuel cells in flight and how you can put those advantages to work.

The benefits of hydrogen in flight systems 

When it comes to flying, hydrogen fuel cells offer several advantages over traditional aviation fuels, SAF aviation fuel and battery-powered electric systems. Hydrogen has a specific energy-per-unit mass three times higher than traditional jet fuel. Plus, if it’s made via renewable energy, hydrogen emits no CO2 emissions.

Hydrogen fuel cells also provide higher energy density than batteries, offering more power with significantly less weight – a vital factor in flying, where every gram counts.

One of the most significant benefits of hydrogen over traditional lithium-ion batteries is the extended flight time. Whereas battery-powered drones typically offer a maximum flight time of 30 minutes, hydrogen-powered UAVs can fly for up to 3.5 hours. This opens up new applications for aerial surveying, security, search and rescue, and even delivery options.

In addition to longer flight times, hydrogen fuel cells offer quicker refuelling times. Unlike lithium batteries, which can take hours to recharge, hydrogen cylinders can be refilled in just minutes, making them more practical for continuous or extended operations.

The benefits of hydrogen technology in planes and UAVs include extended flight range, reduced carbon emissions, and lower operational costs – and AMS composite cylinders can be an integral part of the solution.

Ultra-Lightweight and High Capacity

AMS has worked with several drone manufacturers to dramatically improve their flight time and abilities.

We worked with UAV performance on their e-Drone Zero, a long-endurance quadcopter designed for the commercial market. This drone features a cutting-edge air-cooled hydrogen fuel cell module developed by Intelligent Energy, managed by an advanced artificial intelligence operating system.

By using an AMS 3L carbon composite cylinder, we doubled the drone’s flight time while increasing its total weight by only 600g. Thanks to our cylinders, the e-Drone Zero can fly 3 to 4 times longer than lithium-ion-powered electric drones.

Similarly, our work with ISS Aerospace, the UK’s leading developer of autonomous aerial systems, extended the flight time of their drone to 120 minutes while allowing the UAV to carry a wide range of payloads.

Our Type 3 carbon composite cylinders are some of the lightest available on the market. They offer high pressure (300 bar) for increased capacity per kilo, creating fuel cell systems with higher power-to-weight ratios. They’re lightweight, durable, and have a greater range than traditional lithium batteries, making them a highly attractive solution.

All AMS hydrogen cylinders are accredited for use globally, adhering to recognised standards such as ISO 11119-2, UN-TPED Pi, DOT (USA), and TC (Canada) certifications. These certifications ensure that our cylinders are safe, durable and reliable in a range of environments, from high-altitude conditions to commercial drone operations. Plus, if there is an accident and the cylinder is pierced, AMS composite cylinders have been designed to disperse the gas safely.

The Future of Aviation with AMS Composite Cylinders

As the demand for sustainable flight solutions grows, AMS Composite Cylinders is committed to delivering advanced, lightweight hydrogen storage solutions that enable hydrogen fuel cell systems to reach their full potential. Our Type 3 carbon composite cylinders are specifically designed to meet the rigorous demands of the aviation and drone industries, offering high capacity, durability, and minimal weight.

Whether for UAVs or hydrogen-powered aircraft, AMS Composite Cylinders is crucial in shaping the future of flight. With our expertise and cutting-edge technology, we are helping to make hydrogen fuel cell aviation a reality, providing cleaner, longer-lasting, and more efficient flight solutions for tomorrow’s skies.

About AMS Composite Cylinders

At AMS Composite Cylinders, we specialise in supplying high-quality gas and oxygen cylinders to a wide variety of industries worldwide. Type 1, Type 2, and Type 3 cylinders are available in standard and custom sizes for a full range of healthcare and homecare applications.

Supplying clients across the UK, Europe, the Middle East and Latin America, we produce cylinders to a wide range of recognised global standards, holding accreditations in all major markets worldwide.

AMS Composite Cylinders Manufacturers to ISO and EN Standards (including ISO-11119-2, ISO 11119-1, EN 12245, EN 12257, ISO 7666, and ISO 11118) and the requirements of UN PED/TPED, DOT (USA) and TC (Canada). Cylinders hold Rho ρ marking for the UK.

Please contact us today for additional information about AMS Composite Cylinders or to order.