Flexibility, speed and know-how guarantee ETMA a key role in the development of screws for Europe’s first domestic hydrogen project.
INTRODUCTION
ETMA was invited by BSH to supply fundamental components for a pioneering hydrogen project led by SGN, one of the leading gas distribution network operators in the United Kingdom. This project, which stands out as the first in Europe to introduce hydrogen as a domestic energy source, represents a significant step forward on the road to energy sustainability. The choice of ETMA to supply specific screws for the system reinforces the recognition of its production capacity, flexibility and responsiveness.
THE HYDROGEN PROJECT AND SUSTAINABLE INNOVATION
BSH, recognised worldwide for developing technological solutions for the home appliance sector, is partnering with SGN on this pioneering domestic hydrogen project. BSH’s experience in creating sustainable and technologically advanced equipment has provided the perfect synergy to test hydrogen as a clean energy source in homes. This collaboration promises to redefine the future of home appliances by integrating more efficient and environmentally friendly technologies, in line with global sustainability goals.
SGN’s initiative, in partnership with BSH, aims to revolutionise the energy market by introducing hydrogen as a clean and efficient alternative for domestic heating. This project is being developed in Scotland, in cooperation with local partners, and features an innovative infrastructure designed to demonstrate the viability of hydrogen as a substitute for fossil fuels. The pilot house is fully equipped to run solely on hydrogen, an energy source that does not generate carbon emissions, positioning itself as a sustainable solution for the future of housing.
By replacing natural gas with hydrogen, the project aims to test the energy efficiency, safety and economic viability of this alternative source. The infrastructure has been designed to allow the perfect integration of heating systems, guaranteeing the same performance with a significantly reduced environmental impact.
ETMA’S CONTRIBUTION: FLEXIBILITY AND RESPONSIVENESS
ETMA stands out for the vertical integration of its production processes, which includes an exclusive system of 10 integrated production processes. This capacity allows total control over all the manufacturing phases, ensuring maximum quality, traceability and the ability to respond within short timeframes.
For this specific project, BSH contacted ETMA because of its recognised know-how in the area of fastening and manufacturing screws, as well as the flexibility of its various production facilities. The screw initially designed for the hydrogen-powered hob was not meeting the technical needs and defined objectives, leading BSH to seek a reliable partner who could develop an optimised solution.
ETMA stood out for its ability to offer prototypes using alternative processes, since forging, due to its high setup costs and the need to invest in specific tools, was not suitable for the testing phase. Instead, the more competitive and flexible turning process was used for this initial phase. This method allowed for quick and effective changes to the prototypes, guaranteeing quality and precision without jeopardising deadlines.
During development, ETMA also made geometric changes at the client’s request, adjusting the specifications to the technical needs identified in the tests. The project is currently in the testing phase, with the technical collaboration of the BSH and ETMA teams.
ETMA is proud to have been chosen to take part in this pioneering European project, thanks to the confidence it portrays to its partners and the technical security of its processes.
TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS OF THE SCREW
The screw developed by ETMA for this project has specific technical characteristics that guarantee maximum strength and durability. This component has been designed to integrate the hydrogen-powered hob, one of the main innovations of this pilot project. The fully hydrogen-powered hob represents a milestone in domestic sustainability, reducing the carbon footprint and increasing energy efficiency.
With a zinc coating (5 to 13 µm), a core carburisation between 320-370 HV and a surface of 450 HV, the screw is designed to withstand extreme pressure and temperature conditions, ensuring the safety and reliability required for the hydrogen system.
Production has been optimised to allow rapid adjustments, with flexibility in the manufacturing processes, guaranteeing on-time delivery, even in the prototyping and technical validation phases. The technical details and manufacturing rigour reflect ETMA’s commitment to excellence and industrial innovation.
PARTNERSHIP FOR THE FUTURE
The collaboration between ETMA and BSH represents not only a technical partnership, but also a joint commitment to innovation and sustainability. This pioneering project opens the door to future collaborations on high-tech projects, where ETMA’s speed, flexibility and capacity for innovation are key differentiators.
CONCLUSION
ETMA’s participation as a component supplier in this domestic hydrogen project demonstrates its ability to respond to industry challenges with innovation and efficiency. The commitment to flexible manufacturing processes, combined with speed of response, consolidates ETMA as a trusted partner for projects that make a difference on the road to energy sustainability.