Proton Power prepares for anticipated demand with stack manufacturing robot

Fuel cell and electric hybrid systems developer Proton Power Systems announced on Tuesday that, following the recent conclusion of cooperation and partnership agreements and “clear signs” that industry demand for hydrogen fuel cells was rapidly increasing, it was now installing a stack manufacturing robot.

The AIM-traded firm said that would allow it to increase production capacity to 5,000 fuel cell units per annum.

It explained that the manufacturing robot relating to the project ‘Fit for Automatic Manufacturing and Assembly’ (Fit-4-AMandA) was financed by the European Fuel Cells and Hydrogen Joint Undertaking (FCH JU) agency.

Proton was one of five professional bodies that took part in the development and “rigorous” testing programme, in order to perfect performance and manufacturing capacity of the robot.

In order to meet future increasing demand, plans were already in place to modify the machine layout to be able to produce up to 30,000 stack units per year.

Proton said it wanted to assure all its supporters and those “believing” in its zero-carbon dioxide footprint that it was “ready and able” with its ‘GEN 4’ stack module and fuel cell, to cope with the expected demand in the “partially world saving” industry.

The contribution to the industry would serve mobile applications - buses and trucks, among others - as well as stationary applications including power generation, standby and continuous power; and maritime, including yachts and ships.

“We are delighted with this important development in the company’s progress as it contributes greatly to manufacturing ability and puts Proton in a commanding position to receive larger quantity orders before the end of 2020,” said the firm’s chairman Helmut Gierse.