Global composite technology provider UMOE Advanced Composites (UAC) has begun full-scale production of advanced composite cylinders at its new manufacturing facility in Jiaxing, China.
In a media release, the company said the new facility will produce multi-element gas containers (MEGCs) for international projects, including equipment for the Hiringa Sundown Joint Venture in Australia.
This venture is developing the Good Earth Green Hydrogen and Ammonia Project in New South Wales, which will use solar power to produce green hydrogen and ammonia for industrial and transport applications. UAC is delivering five storage units to the project – two 20-ft. and three 40-ft. containers – to support hydrogen transport and distribution.
The 12,000 sqm facility in Jiaxing is expected to play a critical role in supporting the expansion of hydrogen and clean gas logistics across Asia and international markets.
It immediately triples the company’s production capacity and can potentially manufacture up to 20,000 composite cylinders annually. The company said it is also working to secure permits for distribution within China’s domestic market.
“Seeing our first cylinders roll off the production line in China is a huge milestone for UAC. This facility will, from the start, triple our global production capacity and create the foundation for future growth with potential for up to 24,000 cylinders per year across our operations in China and Norway,” said Lars Erik Lunøe, CEO of UMOE Advanced Composites. “The Jiaxing facility enables us to deliver significantly higher capacity at a competitive cost level, strengthening our ability to serve customers globally as demand for hydrogen and other compressed gases accelerates.”
According to the company, the combination of glass fibre composite technology and China’s manufacturing boosts the commercial viability of hydrogen projects by reducing storage and transport costs, enabling the growth of zero-emission applications in transportation, shipping and production.
The initial storage containers at the facility are targeting hydrogen applications, but the technology can also be used for compressed natural gas.
“With production now underway, UAC is strengthening its ability to support the rapid expansion of hydrogen and clean gas logistics across Asia-Pacific and global markets,” UAC said in its announcement.
This local production advantage comes at a critical time as hydrogen use expands globally and industries increasingly seek affordable, efficient ways to store and transport clean gases.
