[ cover story ] cannot match their speed , the OEMs cannot realise their production goals . Therefore , even if an OEM possesses cutting-edge technology , secures the necessary funding to establish a Gigafactory , and identifies customers eager to purchase their electrolysers , all of these prerequisites must be complemented by a smooth acquisition of essential precision parts to fulfil orders .
Omniseal Solutions ’ facility in Kontich , Belgium
in the case of hydrogen . Here , we are swift and responsive in prototyping and addressing customer needs , efficiently reallocating personnel and resources . Yet , when significant investments or intricate problem-solving is required , we stand not as a small independent entity but as a formidable force with ample resources at our disposal .”
Playing a vital role in hydrogen supply chain
As electrolyser manufacturers continue to announce plans to increase their production capacities , they are increasingly susceptible to supply chain bottlenecks involving the numerous components used in electrolyser stacks . Recognising this challenge and leveraging their own competencies and capabilities , Omniseal Solutions is relentlessly dedicated to its commitment to playing a pivotal role in supplying a critical electrolyser component – gaskets .
Mr . Yeterian , while discussing the current landscape , elucidates : “ One of the prominent challenges hindering the emergence of this ecosystem is the supply chain ’ s ability to keep pace and align with the rapid expansion plans of many electrolyser manufacturers . These OEMs have set exceptionally ambitious projections , driven by green policies and substantial public and private funding . However , if the supply chain
“ In broad terms ,” he continues , “ while much attention is understandably focused on strategic components such as the anode and cathode , there are also discrete parts , like gaskets , which play an equally vital role . Their effective performance often goes unnoticed , but they are indispensable for the successful delivery of an electrolyser . Paradoxically , the risk can be even greater with these less conspicuous components . This underscores the need for heightened attention to ensure they are readily available and do not become the missing link in the supply chain . Currently , we are witnessing the supply chain struggling to keep pace . Consequently , the investments in production capability that we are making are our proactive response to meet the market ’ s growing expectations .
“ What we are observing among our customers is their desire to secure multi-year volumes . They are currently in a ramp-up phase , which means they cannot afford to wait until the moment when parts must be delivered to their doorstep to initiate the procurement process . One of our key strategies is to synchronise our timeline with theirs . This approach is centred on ensuring that our readiness aligns with theirs , a critical aspect of our commitment to being a dependable partner , consistently available , and at the appropriate level of maturity when our assistance is required . This commitment involves proactive engagement , initiating discussions well in advance . In many cases , our conversations revolve around the years 2025 , 2026 , and 2027 , corresponding to the postramp-up and steady-state operational period .”
12 Hydrogen Tech World | Issue 12 | October 2023