Hydrogen pipeline compression is capital-intensive, with conventional metal impellers limited in how fast they can operate, forcing operators to use multiple compressor stages.

Greene Tweed says its composite design could allow a higher compression per stage, reducing equipment size, cost, and maintenance requirements.

The US-based manufacturer explained its impeller is made from carbon-fibre-reinforced PEEK, allowing it to reach tip speeds of 688 m/s in testing, almost double those of typical closed metallic impellers.

Following initial testing, Greene Tweed is now working with centrifugal compressor OEMs to integrate the design into commercial hydrogen compression systems.

“Our goal was to create a design that could exceed 600 m/s tip speed for compressing light gases like hydrogen,” said Samuel Stutz, Technology Manager at Greene Tweed.

“After three rigorous development and testing cycles, the impeller achieved a tip speed of 688 m/s, far exceeding the project’s original target and setting a new industry benchmark.”