SMB Bearings supports reliable operation in hydrogen energy systems
Specialised miniature bearings help hydrogen equipment manufacturers manage embrittlement, temperature extremes and operational safety.
www.smbbearings.com
Hydrogen systems are increasingly deployed across transport, energy and industrial processing as demand continues to rise. Data from the International Energy Agency shows that global hydrogen demand reached nearly 100 million tonnes in 2024, increasing operating hours and mechanical stress across supporting equipment. As projects scale, maintaining reliability in rotating components has become a critical engineering concern.
Many hydrogen applications rely on miniature bearings used in blowers, pumps, compressors and expanders. These components must operate reliably under high speeds, temperature variation and strict safety requirements. Wear or seizure at the bearing level can result in airflow loss, temperature increases or vibration, often before larger assemblies indicate a fault.
Hydrogen-specific risks in rotating equipment
Hydrogen introduces mechanical risks that differ from conventional industrial processes. One key challenge is hydrogen embrittlement, in which hydrogen atoms penetrate bearing steels and alter their microstructure. Research referenced by the University of Cambridge indicates that this process increases susceptibility to cracking under load, raising the risk of unexpected bearing failure.
These risks are particularly pronounced in high-speed and cryogenic applications. In hydrogen liquefaction plants, expanders depend on small bearings rotating at high speeds while exposed to rapid thermal changes. Bearing degradation in these conditions can cause imbalance and vibration, triggering protective shutdowns.
Fuel cell systems face similar constraints. Miniature bearings in blower assemblies regulate airflow to control stack temperature. If lubrication thickens in cold conditions or degrades under sustained load, blower speed can drop, reducing system efficiency or causing early shutdown.
Cryogenic pumps operating below –150°C present further challenges. Material contraction and lubricant behaviour change significantly at these temperatures. Bearings not designed for such conditions may experience increased friction and accelerated wear, directly affecting pump stability.
Bearing solutions selected for hydrogen environments
To mitigate these risks, hydrogen equipment designers work with bearing specialists such as SMB Bearings to specify materials, seals and lubrication adapted to extreme operating conditions. SMB Bearings supplies stainless steel, hybrid and full ceramic miniature bearings for hydrogen-related equipment.
Stainless steel bearings manufactured from grades such as 440C or 316 provide corrosion resistance in moisture-prone environments. Hybrid bearings combining ceramic balls with steel rings reduce wear and are less susceptible to hydrogen embrittlement. High-nitrogen stainless steel rings further improve resistance in demanding applications. For cryogenic systems, full ceramic bearings offer low friction and dimensional stability across wide temperature ranges.
Sealing and lubrication strategies
Seal selection plays a key role in balancing contamination protection and friction levels. Contact seals offer robust protection, while non-contact seals reduce drag where low friction is required. In hydrogen systems, appropriate sealing supports lubricant retention and limits ingress of contaminants.
Lubrication is specified according to temperature and accessibility constraints. Where conventional greases may thicken at low temperatures, solid lubrication or dry-film coatings are applied to maintain consistent performance in limited-maintenance environments.
Contribution to system reliability
Although hydrogen systems are dominated by large compressors, storage vessels and pipelines, operational stability often depends on smaller components. Bearings influence airflow regulation, fluid circulation and pressure control across hydrogen equipment. Failures at this level can propagate into system-wide shutdowns or safety events.
By supporting engineers in selecting bearings adapted to hydrogen conditions, SMB Bearings contributes to improved reliability and reduced unplanned downtime in hydrogen energy applications.
www.smbbearings.com
