National Composites Centre hosts the ATI Hub: Aerospace Innovation Showcase on Cryogenic Hydrogen Fuel Systems

In November, the National Composites Centre (NCC) hosted the ATI Hub: Aerospace Innovation Showcase on Cryogenic Hydrogen Fuel Systems, delivered by the Aerospace Technology Institute and the High Value Manufacturing Catapult. With a keynote address from NASA’s Cryogenic Test Laboratory and industry-leading panellists, the showcase convened more than 80 representatives including established companies and original equipment manufacturers as well as SMEs and startups from aerospace, hydrogen and cryogenics to discuss requirements, market opportunities and possible collaborations for on-craft hydrogen fuel systems and components. Nine SMEs with relevant capabilities from both aerospace and adjacent sectors were invited to pitch their cutting-edge solutions. Along with ATI and other HVM Catapult centres, NCC experts facilitated focused workshops on pipes and connections for fuel transport; monitoring, control and pressurisation; as well as thermal management. The full-day event highlighted tangible paths forward for future hydrogen aircraft technologies, helping unlock this strategic opportunity for the UK.