Q . TELL US ABOUT THE CRUCIAL ROLE OF AUTOMATION .
» Automation is important for several reasons . The first reason is related to the architecture of a fuel cell . The core , known as the fuel cell stack , consists of hundreds of repeating elements ( 100 to 300 cells per stack ), while the cells themselves are composed of several layers – 2 to 4 per cell , based on experience to date .
This inherent repetition is a key factor in automation , leading to cycle times of 1-10 seconds per layer ( depending on the product and plant throughput ) during which each layer is picked up , qualitychecked , and placed correctly in the stack . The high levels of precision
“AUTOMATION FACILITATES THE PROCESS OF ZERO- EMISSION RENEWABLE ENERGY GENERATION , MAKING MUCH HIGHER PRODUCTION VOLUMES POSSIBLE THAN THOSE WITHOUT AUTOMATED TECHNOLOGIES ”
ALESSANDRO PISCIONERI GLOBAL HEAD OF STRATEGIC MARKETING ADVANCED ROBOTICS & DIGITAL SEGMENTS , COMAU and quality required during the assembly process are another reason why automation can help improve fuel cell production .
First , each cell must be aligned to a tolerance of 0.1mm , then each component and layer is checked for geometric and surface defects . Most manufacturers require full traceability of the process , and , until a stack is sealed , many fuel cells require compliance with cleanroom standards .
Q . WHAT DO THE NEXT 12 MONTHS HOLD FOR YOU AND THE COMPANY ?
» Looking ahead , research and development will continue to be heavily focused on the future generations of batteries and hydrogen-based energy sources . We will see the need for longer vehicle range , faster refuelling or charging times , improved safety , reduced costs , and a greener production chain ( from raw materials to recycling ), and all of this will drive many changes and new products .
To meet these needs , Comau will continue to develop cuttingedge hydrogen-related
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