Test 1022 Barr and partners provided support to STARS Technology Corporation to rapidly accelerate low-cost hydrogen production. This project sought to create low-cost, distributed hydrogen to support fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) refueling. Most critically, the project leveraged an ultra-compact steam methane reformer (SMR) capable of producing hydrogen at an estimated $5/kg using electric heating instead of combustion.
STARS developed this beta system with the goal to develop into a mass-produced commercial product. This initial design phase required creative engineering and problem solving to develop the concept in a short time frame while adapting to unique constraints.
Barr completed balance-of-plant engineering to design the ultra-compact hydrogen generation skid. Engineering efforts included process development; piping and equipment specification and layout; structure design; and power and instrumentation system design.
