Purem by Eberspaecher De-Hydrator reduces steam formation in fuel cells
Esslingen (Germany), 14 April 2026 – Visible steam formation is one of the previously underestimated aspects of operating mobile fuel cell systems. Purem by Eberspaecher De-Hydrator ensures effective water management and reduces the relative humidity in the exhaust air.
Purem by Eberspaecher offers a comprehensive portfolio for fuel cell systems. The Balance of Plant components optimize overall efficiency, while the modular exhaust air system addresses noise emissions and water management requirements. The newly developed De-Hydrator also contributes to operational safety.
Reduced steam formation for greater safety
Fuel cells generate electrical energy through a chemical reaction of hydrogen and oxygen. This release produces water steam as a byproduct, which must be removed from the system. Particularly at low outside temperatures or high humidity, this may cause significant steam emissions to be generated at the tailpipe of fuel cell-powered vehicles. This plays a more significant role in road safety than previously recognized. The De-Hydrator mitigates this via a multi-step process. The moisture-laden air generated as a byproduct of the chemical process is mixed with cooled air – a heat exchange takes place and the water condenses. This is separated by the water separator, a component of the modular exhaust air system. Warm air is then fed back into the cooled, unsaturated exhaust air to reduce the steam. This procedure significantly reduces the amount of water in the tailpipe.
Modular approach, tried and tested in real life
The company adapts the De-Hydrator as part of the modular fuel cell exhaust air system specifically to the requirements of its customers. Comprehensive consulting services, customized product design, and excellent manufacturing expertise are all available from a single source. Initial practical tests at a well-known German car manufacturer validate the working principle. Test bench and road tests were also included in the program as part of the collaboration with RWTH Aachen – with successful results.
Expert in simulation and testing
For the development of the De-Hydrator, Purem by Eberspaecher relies on its expertise in exhaust technology. The Esslingen-based company provided its flow control expertise to support the component’s design, which also satisfies stringent strength and manufacturing requirements in line with automotive standards. To offer the customer a holistic solution and shorten design times, Purem by Eberspaecher carries out simulation and testing itself. A dedicated fuel cell test bench was established at the headquarters for this purpose.
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Purem by Eberspaecher De-Hydrator reduces steam formation in fuel cells, source
