Composite Advanced Technologies

A critical element in the global transition toward the energy sector’s deep decarbonization involves the creation of a robust, cost-effective and efficient hydrogen storage, transportation and distribution network. This system serves a dual purpose; it stimulates hydrogen demand by increasing production and decreasing hydrogen prices. Second, reduced hydrogen production costs encourage the expansion of hydrogen infrastructure.

In this context, Composite Advanced Technologies (CATEC Gases) stands out as the go-to partner for all midstream compressed hydrogen needs, with technical prowess that is not just a claim but a proven reality.

CATEC Gases delivers end-to-end solutions that oversee the gas’s trajectory, from its point of origin to the final recipient. The firm’s knowledge runs deep, encompassing the design, construction and maintenance of the infrastructure needed to transport gases such as compressed natural gas (CNG), renewable natural gas (RNG), and hydrogen. This expertise extends to developing state-of-the-art tube trailers and storage facilities, ensuring safe and efficient transit.

“We are sitting at the crossroads of compressed hydrogen supply and demand, where we help producers and end users achieve their economic objectives,” says Alberto Chiesara, President of CATEC Gases.

Precision engineering lies at its core. Every detail is analyzed to ensure optimal component selection for gas compression and loading. This is reflected in the development of cutting-edge tube trailers that are expertly made from avant-garde composite materials, setting them leagues ahead in capacity compared to their traditional steel counterparts.

Commitment, however, extends beyond innovation in materials and engineering. CATEC Gases understands that a comprehensive solution must include the tools to effectively manage and dispense hydrogen. For this reason, it equips clients with essential dispensing apparatuses, including dispensers, regulators, valves and meters.

When it comes to compressed hydrogen logistics, financial strategies are just as important as technical expertise. CATEC Gases’ financial models provide flexibility to customers, offering pricing options based on the weight of gas, leasing arrangements for trailers and equipment, or structured monthly costs.

Shaping the Future of Gas Logistics

CATEC Gases aims to help customers decarbonize while making lower-carbon energy sources more accessible and affordable. To achieve this, it developed a highly efficient, type IV cylinder that assures safe transportation of compressed hydrogen when mounted on a mobile trailer.

A standout feature of the proprietary cylinders is the fire protection system. Each tube has a shape memory alloy (SMA) wire linkage enclosed in stainless steel tubing. In the event of a fire, this linkage functions as a trigger for the tank assembly’s pressure relief device (PRD), which safely vents the hazardous contents. The fire protection system also ensures that escaping gas is directed away from the tubes, preventing impingement and enhancing safety during critical situations.

CATEC Gases’ commitment to safety extends to its rigorous testing and inspection protocols. It adheres to stringent manufacturing and quality control standards, guaranteeing each tube meets the highest safety and performance criteria. It also conducts periodic inspections and tests every five years to maintain the integrity of the cylinders.

Another notable aspect is the integration of electronic stability control (ESC) systems in vehicles pulling CATEC Gases containers. This technology improves vehicle stability in transit, reducing the risk of accidents, increasing the safety and reliability of gas transportation.

CATEC Gases’ resolve to prevent accidents further extends to the dynamic rollover threshold, which exceeds industry standards. Its containers can withstand forces associated with rollovers, providing an extra layer of security.

One Source, Many Solutions

One of the significant challenges businesses face in the gas logistics sector is the lack of a unified supply source for gaseous high-pressure technology. Companies usually navigate a fragmented market, procuring equipment from various providers, each specializing in a different aspect of the process. This disjointed approach not only hampers the sector’s development, it also poses logistical challenges.

CATEC Gases responded decisively to this industry-wide predicament by embarking on a mission to simplify processes for its clients. The firm’s value proposition is based on its ability to transport compressed hydrogen at exceptionally high pressure, certified at 4000 PSI, making it an industry leader. While some competitors possess higher pressure ratings, they often fall short in terms of overall capacity. This is where CATEC Gases distinguishes itself, with the ability to provide both high pressure and substantial volume for gas transport.

CATEC Gases’ primary focus is to act as a dedicated solutions integrator, providing clients with a seamless experience and enhancing the efficiency of gas transportation and storage. To achieve this goal, it designs and produces pressure reduction skids (PRS), simplifying the transition of gases from trailers to power various units like generators and fuel cells. It has become a one-stop shop for midstream compressed hydrogen transport and storage solutions. This approach eliminates the need for clients to seek equipment from multiple suppliers and streamlines the entire process, making it more efficient and cost-effective.

Apart from addressing the fragmented gas logistics landscape, CATEC Gases is venturing into a market segment with the potential to change the energy industry. This intriguing endeavor focuses on developing a technology that encompasses the supply of hydrogen, storage solutions, and generators designed for EV charging stations.

The rationale behind this venture stems from a significant impediment faced by the rapid expansion of EV charging infrastructure—access to power. In the current landscape, some companies resort to using diesel generators to charge EV stations, which is far from sustainable or environmentally sensible.

CATEC Gases has strategically collaborated with leading hydrogen generator companies to supply the technology required for the transportation and storage of hydrogen as well as to facilitate the creation of hydrogen-based generators for EV charging stations.

Strategic Alliances

“With us, the final user reaps the rewards of cost-efficient gas transport—where moving more means paying less,” says Chiesara.

CATEC Gases’ track record of successful partnerships underscores its pivotal role in advancing innovation and efficiency in the hydrogen industry. In one instance, it collaborated with a client based in the Northeast U.S. who actively produced and sold green hydrogen to the largest retailer. CATEC Gases stepped in as a crucial partner to meet the retailer’s requirements for economically transporting gas from the production site to its consumption point. Specialized trailers were provided to enable the economical and efficient movement of gas, providing a competitive market edge. It also provided on-site storage solutions to ensure safe and reliable gas retention between production and use.

In another notable partnership, a leading independent power producer (IPP) in the U.S. chose CATEC Gases’ solutions to optimize their hydrogen utilization. Now, during periods of low energy prices, the IPP uses CATEC Gases’ technology to efficiently store excess hydrogen. Subsequently, this stored hydrogen is utilized as a peaking fuel for one of the IPP’s 15-megawatt generation units, increasing operational flexibility and cost-efficiency.

Diverse Expertise at the Intersection of Industry Needs

CATEC Gases comprises a formidable engineering team that operates as the driving force behind the firm’s success. The team maintains daily interactions with a broad spectrum of clients, including hydrogen producers, consumers, aerospace companies and IPPs, along with major energy producers. These interactions furnish CATEC Gases with a deep understanding of the market’s nuances, placing it at the epicenter of compressed hydrogen dynamics.

The team at CATEC Gases is a mosaic of refined skills and experiences, comprising professionals from diverse sectors. For instance, it has the privilege of leveraging the knowledge of experts with backgrounds in NASA’s carbon fiber winding, an invaluable asset in the development of cutting-edge solutions. The team also benefits from the insights of seasoned professionals from the power generation industry, enhancing their ability to address complex challenges.

With its roots firmly planted in Texas, CATEC Gases has expanded its manufacturing capabilities, and has ambitious plans to double its capacity within a year. This growth underscores its strong belief in American ingenuity and manufacturing, where every development and innovation takes place on home soil.

Its proprietary technology and dedication to tailoring solutions for clients demonstrate its versatility and commitment to delivering value. In its continuing journey of innovation, CATEC Gases stands poised to shape the future of compressed hydrogen technology and drive sustainable progress.