As hydrogen-powered drones are increasingly adopted for long-duration aerial missions, the challenge of dependable, flexible field refueling becomes more critical. Cellen, a developer of hydrogen technologies for unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), offers a set of refueling solutions specifically engineered for drone operations.
Traditional hydrogen supply infrastructure does not address the practical realities of UAV missions, especially those conducted in remote areas, under tight deadlines, or without fixed support systems.
Four Hydrogen Refueling Methods Tailored to Commercial UAV Needs
Cellen has developed four hydrogen refueling solutions designed to support a range of operational scenarios. All are fully compatible with Cellen’s high-pressure composite hydrogen cylinders, which store gas at 350 bar (5,076 psi). These cylinders are manufactured using lightweight, durable materials such as carbon fiber and aluminum, and are available in volumes from 5 to 12 liters. Each system is built with safety, portability, and efficiency in mind.
1. Mobile Hydrogen Refueling Trailer
This trailer-mounted refueling unit generates, stores, and compresses hydrogen on-site. It is towable by a standard pickup truck and includes a compact electrolyzer that produces hydrogen from water. Integrated buffer tanks store the generated hydrogen, and a built-in compressor fills drone cylinders to the required 350 bar pressure.
Power options include:
- 120V standard wall outlet
- 240V RV-style industrial connection
- Optional solar panel integration
This setup provides full hydrogen independence, supporting off-grid operations or field deployments without access to traditional fuel infrastructure.
2. On-Site Refueling Using Ultra-High-Pressure Cylinders
This method utilizes widely available industrial hydrogen cylinders rated up to 6,000 psi (415 bar). A pressure-regulated decanting system enables direct transfer into Cellen’s 350 bar UAV cylinders without the need for a compressor or electrical power.
Advantages include:
- Fast deployment
- No moving parts
- Utilizes existing commercial gas supply networks
This option is intended for operators who require a streamlined, low-maintenance solution.
3. On-Site Refueling with Standalone Compressor
For locations where only 2,000 psi hydrogen tanks are available, a standalone compressor is provided to increase pressure up to 350 bar for drone applications. This setup gives operators control over the full refueling process without reliance on ultra-high-pressure deliveries.
Key features:
- Compatible with standard 2,000 psi hydrogen cylinders
- Portable compressor connects directly to Cellen cylinders
- Suitable for both mobile and fixed-site use
4. On-Demand Hydrogen Refueling Service
Cellen also offers a UAV-focused hydrogen refueling service that eliminates the need for on-site gas management.
How the service works:
- Empty Cellen cylinders are shipped to a certified refueling facility
- Cylinders are refilled to 350 bar
- Full cylinders are returned ready for field deployment
Enabled by hazardous materials shipping certification, this service is currently operating in Houston, Texas, with plans for wider U.S. availability.
Designed for Seamless Integration with the Cellen Ecosystem
All refueling solutions are engineered to function natively with Cellen’s hydrogen-powered UAV systems and cylinders. No retrofitting or custom connectors are required. Cylinders are fully swappable, supporting continuous operation in the field, one cylinder can power a drone while others are being refueled, minimizing downtime.
These capabilities are built to support operators conducting extended missions, whether managing a small team or scaling across multiple sites.
Focus on Safety and Operational Standards
All equipment in Cellen’s refueling ecosystem is sourced from recognized suppliers specializing in industrial gas systems. Regulators, compressors, and fittings are selected for performance in high-pressure hydrogen environments. Each component meets established industry safety standards and is supported by technical documentation for real-world UAV integration.
Hands-on training is provided to support each refueling method, covering compressor use, decanting procedures, and electrolyzer operation. Additional documentation and assistance are available to help customers navigate licensing and transportation requirements for hydrogen cylinders. Regulatory support is tailored to local jurisdictions as needed.
Enabling Scalable, Long-Endurance UAV Operations
Cellen’s hydrogen refueling options are designed not as auxiliary features, but as core components of a complete hydrogen UAV ecosystem. These solutions address the logistical challenges of long-endurance drone operations and enable reliable deployment in a wide variety of field environments.
