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hydrogen fueled train

Hydrogen Fueling for Trains

Transport accounts for 16.2% of global emissions.* Converting diesel trains to zero-emission hydrogen fuel cell trains can reduce global greenhouse gas emissions and improve air quality. 

Air Products is the leading supplier of hydrogen globally with decades of experience designing and implementing hydrogen fueling systems, including for decarbonized rail transport. We’re here to support your decarbonization needs.
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Why do we need hydrogen-powered trains?

In applications such as rail transport, which require movement of heavy freight, while requiring the ability for long-range travel and quick refueling times, hydrogen becomes a more efficient option than battery electric power.

How can hydrogen power a train?

Hydrogen can power a train using a fuel cell. In a hydrogen fuel cell, hydrogen atoms are separated into two primary components: one proton and one electron. The positively charged hydrogen protons pass through the fuel cell where they meet oxygen from the air on the other side. The electrons, however, head a different direction, creating an electric current which can power a fuel cell electric motor. The electrons then meet back up with the hydrogen ions and oxygen molecules from the air at the end of the process, creating water as the only emission. 

How does fueling a hydrogen train work and is it safe?

Fueling a hydrogen train is similar to fueling a diesel-powered locomotive and takes about the same time.

Decarbonized Rail Transport

Air Products’ hydrogen is in use today, powering some of the first hydrogen-powered trains into a future of decarbonized rail transport.

Reasons to Convert to Hydrogen Train Fueling with Air Products

Air Products is the world’s leading supplier of hydrogen with over 65 years of experience in hydrogen production, storage, distribution, and dispensing. We’ve implemented over 250 fueling stations in 20 countries, and our technology and hydrogen is responsible for over 1.5 million hydrogen fuelings annually.

Improved Air Quality

Hydrogen fuel cell trains emit only water and no harmful greenhouse gases or particulate matter.

Faster Refueling

Hydrogen trains can be refueled about as quickly as a conventional diesel locomotive.

Turnkey Hydrogen Fueling Stations

Air Products develops and delivers everything you need to get started.

Unrivaled Hydrogen Experience

Air Products has >65 years of experience safely producing and handling hydrogen.

Learn how you can decarbonize your rail operation.

Talk to one of our hydrogen fueling experts today.

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*Sector by sector: where do global greenhouse gas emissions come from? - Our World in Data