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02. June 2025, 13:28 o'Clock
Article: Transport container for gaseous hydrogen
Sicher und umweltfreundlich – Mit dem neuen MEGC kommt Wasserstoff bei DB Cargo auf die Schiene
Hydrogen is a versatile energy carrier with great importance for the decarbonization of energy in Germany. If it is obtained from sustainable sources such as water, wind or sun, it can significantly optimize the ecological balance. For such a green product, environmentally friendly transportation is of course also highly relevant. DB Cargo BTT GmbH already transports chemical hydrogen carriers such as ammonia or methanol in tank cars over long distances by rail. For gaseous hydrogen, however, the only transport solution to date is in pressure vessels on trucks.
With the multiple element gas container (MEGC), the project partners DB Cargo BTT, Hexagon Purus, Endress+Hauser, Infraserv Höchst and Fraunhofer IML have now developed a safe and environmentally friendly solution for the multimodal transport of gaseous hydrogen by rail. The joint research project is being funded by the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Action (BMWK) as part of the hydrogen technology offensive.
Multi-element gas container, the MEGC (Multiple Element Gas Container)
Green logistics meets smart technology: the MEGC in detail
What makes the newly developed MEGC so unique? In addition to relieving road congestion, a green energy carrier can now also reach its destination in an environmentally friendly way and improve the industry's overall carbon footprint. One train not only replaces up to 52 trucks, but also saves more than 80 percent CO2e. The new MEGC is also the first 500 bar container approved for rail transport with an increased load capacity of 1,223 kg.
The design of the container is specially optimized for rail transport on so-called carrying wagons and also offers side loading and unloading options. New safety standards are achieved thanks to the container's smart sensors. Both the temperature and the pressure in the container can be continuously monitored during transportation. Vibrations are also detected by the special sensors. The MEGC is therefore optimally equipped for the transportation of this sensitive product and transports gaseous hydrogen efficiently and safely to its destination.
Exhibition of the first demonstrator
Under the motto #teamupforhydrogen, a demonstrator of the MEGC will be exhibited at the transport logistic trade fair in Munich in June 2025. Interested parties can get a first impression at the FM 707/7 outdoor area. At the end of the year, the container will then transport green hydrogen by rail for the first time as part of a pilot project.
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