Vinçotte starts collaboration with Hydro Team KU Leuven
Vinçotte will provide technical support to the Hydro Team in the coming years.
Working together towards a safe hydrogen future #
At Vinçotte, we strongly believe in innovation and the power of young talent. That is why we are proud to announce our new collaboration with the Hydro Team at KU Leuven.
This student team is building a hydrogen car with the ultimate goal of participating in the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans in 2030. A project that not only pushes the boundaries in the field of sustainable mobility, but also requires a strong focus on safety. And that is exactly where our expertise comes in.
The first step: an explosion safety test #
Hydrogen is a promising energy source, but its storage and use also entail specific safety risks, including explosion hazards. As a first step in this collaboration, one of our specialised ATEX (explosion safety) inspectors visited the Hydro Team.
After an online meeting to discuss their crucial questions about potential explosion hazard zones around the hydrogen storage facility and the piping to their converted petrol engine, the legally required documentation and further action plan were also reviewed. ‘I then went to their office, where I provided feedback on their existing explosion safety document and exchanged additional information about the safety of their installation,’ explains Raphaël, our inspector.
A first draft version of the document is now ready, which not only includes the classification of the potentially explosive areas, but also various measures to ensure safety. Raphaël is already looking forward to seeing the installation in real life soon!
More than an inspection #
This collaboration is more than just an inspection; it is a partnership in which we share our knowledge and experience to help young engineers create a safe and sustainable future. The Hydro Team's hydrogen car is a wonderful example of how innovation and safety can go hand in hand.
We wish the Hydro Team every success in the further development of their hydrogen car. You will no doubt be hearing more about this collaboration in the near future.