The energy transition is reshaping industries worldwide, demanding innovative solutions and strong partnerships. Siemens Energy and Freudenberg Sealing Technologies are at the forefront of this transformation, joining forces to drive progress in the hydrogen economy. Their collaboration exemplifies how shared expertise and teamwork can accelerate sustainable change, setting new standards for technology and reliability in a rapidly evolving market.
The energy transition stands as one of the defining challenges of our era – and its success hinges on strong partnerships. A standout example is the close collaboration between Freudenberg Sealing Technologies (FST), Siemens Energy Electrolyzer Manufacturing in Berlin, and Siemens Energy Global. Siemens Energy, a global leader, is actively involved in major European projects, including OMV’s construction of one of the continent’s largest green hydrogen electrolysis plants, as well as joint hydrogen initiatives with Air Liquide. FST has secured Siemens Energy, the world’s largest PEM electrolyzer manufacturer, as a key partner.
Despite the market’s slower-than-expected growth, FST remains on course for success in this segment, boasting a strong position in both PEM and AEM electrolyzer technologies. “Our materials and design expertise deliver exactly what the leading electrolyzer OEMs require: durable products and reliable partners,” says Artur Maehne, Global Segment Manager, General Industry – Fluid Technology Energy.
Innovation: The Heart of the Partnership
At the core of this partnership is the innovative strength of both companies. Siemens Energy brings decades of expertise in developing and scaling PEM electrolyzers, while Freudenberg Sealing Technologies contributes essential know-how in materials development and sealing technology. Together, they’ve engineered solutions that are not only technically advanced but also economical and sustainable. The teams collaborate closely – from initial brainstorming and workshops to development projects and full-scale production. “We’ve succeeded in supporting Siemens Energy at every step: from developing material specifications to implementing new manufacturing technologies and delivering O-rings. We accomplished all this in record time and at a competitive market price,” says Frank Moskob, Key Account Manager Fluid Technology, Energy – Hydrogen Technologies.
This partnership has produced custom sealing concepts tailored to Siemens Energy’s requirements, with ongoing development through close consultation. FST’s expertise helped Siemens Energy stand out from the competition. “This is another milestone in our business relationship with Siemens Energy,” Maehne notes. FST already enjoys a strong partnership with Siemens Energy in substations and sulfur hexafluoride (SF6) – a gas 22,800 times more harmful than CO2, used as an insulator and extinguisher in high-voltage systems. FST’s O-rings are vital components in Siemens Energy’s air-insulated and gas-insulated switchgear (AIS and GIS).
In September, Siemens Energy Electrolyzer Manufacturing and Siemens Energy Germany representatives visited FST’s Estonia site, where they were impressed by the plant’s high level of automation.
Electrolyzers: Paving the Way for a Green Future
Electrolyzers are central to hydrogen production, enabling water to be split into hydrogen and oxygen using renewable energy – a cornerstone of decarbonizing industry and mobility. Demand for green hydrogen is surging, driving the need for robust, efficient, and safe electrolyzers. Siemens Energy and Freudenberg are setting new standards: thanks to advanced manufacturing and innovative materials, electrolyzers can now be produced at scale, lowering costs and boosting the competitiveness of the hydrogen economy.
Freudenberg’s Materials: The Unsung Heroes of the Energy Transition
The seals and materials developed by Freudenberg Sealing Technologies are essential in every electrolyzer. Freudenberg uses a broad array of high-performance materials, including FKM (fluorocarbon rubber) and EPDM (ethylene propylene diene rubber), specifically designed for PEM and AEM electrolyzers. Cutting-edge manufacturing – like overmolding elastomer seals onto metal or composite plates – results in easy-to-install modules that guarantee reliable sealing throughout the electrolyzer’s lifespan.
“The development of these materials is a team effort: research, development, the Lead Center, and sales work hand-in-hand to find new solutions for the hydrogen economy’s challenges,” Maehne says. “Extensive testing in our labs ensures every seal meets our customers’ quality standards!”
Teamwork Fuels Innovation
The partnership between Siemens Energy Global and Freudenberg Sealing Technologies is a powerful testament to what committed, trust-based teamwork can achieve. By combining technological expertise, innovative spirit, and a shared vision for the energy transition, these companies have delivered solutions that go far beyond individual products – they’re paving the way for a sustainable, climate-friendly future.
Frank Moskob, Key Account Manager: “Our interdisciplinary teams excel at working efficiently and effectively with customer teams!”
Detlef Gottstein, FST Lead Center O-Ringe, Manager Produkt Management Europe: “Our guests from Siemens Energy were very positive about our state-of-the-art facilities in Estonia and the high degree of automation.”
Kaupo Kirs (FST, Partner Production Estland, Manager Partner Production FST Estland): “With this successful project with Siemens Energy, we’ve shown how well we collaborate – both internally across disciplines and with our customer.”
