HOERBIGER puts the pressure on

Efficient compression for transport and industry
The HCP 500 is a powerhouse, specifically designed for two key applications: hydrogen refueling stations for heavy-duty vehicles like buses, trucks, and trains, and hydrogen production plants with integrated trailer filling for transport. The gas is compressed to up to 500 bar. The HCP 500 combines high-performance components, including custom sealing systems and the innovative electric flow control system, eHydroCOM. These technologies ensure efficient and precise control of the compression process. Thanks to these features, the HCP 500 offers exceptional reliability, reduces operating costs, and maximizes uptime – critical for refueling stations with high truck traffic.

Strategic partnership with Ariel
In 2021, HOERBIGER began developing components for hydrogen highpressure compressors and soon cooperated with its longtime partner Ariel, the world’s largest manufacturer of reciprocating compressors. Together, they created the KBH compressor (right in the picture), optimized for hydrogen refueling stations and trailer filling systems. “Ariel brings its extensive expertise in design and manufacturing, while HOERBIGER delivers innovative control technology and high-quality components,” explains Jürgen Brenner, Head of Hydrogen Mobility at HOERBIGER. The result? A powerful and compact compressor system solution that sets new benchmarks.

State-of-the-art assembly plant in Slovakia
To meet growing demand, HOERBIGER has built a new assembly facility in Trnava, Slovakia, where the HCP 500 is produced on an efficient assembly line. This facility guarantees flexible, high-quality manufacturing to meet the evolving needs of the hydrogen economy. It represents not only innovation but also a strong commitment to customers seeking partners whose production capabilities can keep pace with the growth of the hydrogen sector.

Real-world test in Vienna: Proving ground for daily use
In partnership with Wiener Netze, Austria’s largest network operator, HOERBIGER has installed the HCP 500 in a cutting-edge hydrogen production and refueling station in Vienna. This innovative system supports the city’s hydrogen bus fleet and has proven its performance under real-world conditions. The prototype now serves as a pioneering reference for future projects, demonstrating how practical testing can accelerate the advancement of hydrogen technology.

First customer projects in Europe
Even during the development phase, HOERBIGER was able to convince renowned customers of the system‘s efficiency. In 2025, H2 MOBILITY plans to open Europe’s most powerful hydrogen refueling station in Düsseldorf, equipped with the HCP 500, capable of delivering over 5 tons of hydrogen per day. Cavendish Hydrogen is also using the compressor package and plans to equip a new refueling station in Denmark.

“With the HCP 500, HOERBIGER is evolving from a component supplier to a comprehensive provider for hydrogen mobility,” says Brenner. This marks another step toward an emission-free future for transport and industry.

^{Teamwork: Christoph Claas (Head of Engineering) and Franz Fronzke (COO) of H2 MOBILITY Deutschland in front of the 70,000th Ariel compressor for the first manufactured HPC 500 compressor at the plant in Trnava, Slovakia.}