Greene Tweed Sets Hydrogen Compression Record with Composite Impeller

Greene Tweed has achieved a breakthrough in hydrogen compression, developing a composite impeller that reached a record tip speed of 2,258 ft/s (688 m/s) — nearly twice that of traditional metal impellers. The technology could significantly cut costs and boost efficiency for hydrogen pipeline systems.

(P&GJ) — Greene Tweed has reported a major breakthrough in hydrogen compression technology, developing a composite closed impeller that achieved a record tip speed of 688 m/s (2,258 ft/s) — nearly twice the performance of conventional metallic designs.

The innovation underscores how advanced composite materials can improve efficiency and reduce costs across hydrogen pipeline and storage systems, a key focus as global hydrogen infrastructure expands.

“Greene Tweed began developing its composite closed impeller in 2020, leveraging the high specific strength and temperature resistance of carbon fiber–reinforced PEEK (C/PEEK),” said Samuel Stutz, Technology Manager at Greene Tweed. “After three rigorous development and testing cycles, the impeller achieved a tip speed of 688 m/s, far exceeding the project’s original target and setting a new industry benchmark.”

The lightweight composite design — up to five times lighter than metal impellers and offering three times the strength-to-weight ratio — enables higher operational speeds and improved compression ratios for light gases such as hydrogen. This allows operators to reduce compressor stages, cutting system size, cost, and maintenance needs.

“We aim to revolutionize hydrogen infrastructure by breaking past the limitations of metals,” said Magen Buterbaugh, Greene Tweed President and CEO. “By delivering solutions that cut costs, simplify operations, and drive scalability, Greene Tweed is setting a new standard for the industry. We are now collaborating with centrifugal compressor OEMs to bring this technology to real-world applications.”

With hydrogen pipeline development accelerating worldwide — including tens of thousands of miles planned in Europe by 2040 — Greene Tweed’s composite impeller positions the company as a leading player in the next generation of hydrogen compression systems.