Conflux Technology (Conflux) has joined Airbus’ ZEROe project with the development of a new heat exchanger for hydrogen-electric propulsion. The component has been created using additive manufacturing and is currently undergoing a readiness assessment. It plays a vital role in thermal regulation within megawatt-class fuel cell systems.
Hydrogen fuel cells generate large amounts of heat. Without proper control, performance and safety are compromised. Conflux has designed a lightweight, efficient solution tailored to aerospace conditions. The exchanger has been refined through computational fluid dynamic (CFD) modelling and confirmed in laboratory testing. Its compact form and high performance make it well suited for the demanding requirements of flight integration.
Michael Fuller, Chief Executive Officer of Conflux Technology, called the partnership an important step for the industry. “Our work with Airbus marks a significant step forward in the application of additive manufacturing to sustainable aviation. Thermal management is a core enabler for hydrogen propulsion, and our expertise is helping to advance this technology from lab to flight,” he said.
Airbus’ ZEROe programme aims to deliver the first hydrogen-powered commercial aircraft. The project focuses on a fully electric, zero-emission platform that can enter service in the coming years. To succeed, Airbus relies on suppliers like Conflux to deliver critical systems. These components must combine safety, efficiency, and certifiability for future aviation standards.
The Conflux heat exchanger is now being considered for integration into Airbus’ full hydrogen fuel cell architecture. Development continues, with further system-level testing planned over the next several months.
