Yamaha Motor, a leading figure in Japan's mobility sector, has embarked on a groundbreaking endeavor to introduce hydrogen-powered technology for aluminium melting at its upcoming verification testing facility in Morimachi Factory, Japan. This ambitious project, slated to commence operations in 2025, represents a pivotal step towards transforming manufacturing practices with sustainable solutions.
Partnering with Shizuoka University and leveraging its extensive expertise, Yamaha Motor plans to establish advanced melting and heat treatment furnaces powered by hydrogen gas. These technologies aim to optimize the efficiency of aluminium alloy melting processes while significantly reducing carbon emissions associated with traditional fossil fuel use in manufacturing.
The initiative is part of Yamaha Motor's broader strategy to achieve substantial reductions in Scope 1 CO₂ emissions across its product lifecycle. Traditionally reliant on natural gas for thermal energy in aluminium casting, the company's shift to hydrogen gas is poised to mitigate its environmental impact and bolster its position as a leader in sustainable mobility solutions.
By the end of 2026, Yamaha Motor aims to complete the development phase of its hydrogen-powered aluminium melting and heat treatment technologies. Implementation will commence in 2027, progressively integrating these innovations into both domestic and international casting facilities. This phased approach highlights Yamaha Motor's commitment to scaling up hydrogen energy applications and reducing Scope 3 emissions from its global manufacturing operations.
Recognizing the energy-intensive demands of aluminium melting, Yamaha Motor has prioritized hydrogen gas over electrification due to its superior efficiency and environmental benefits. The verification testing at the Morimachi Factory will focus on refining product quality and temperature control techniques using innovative hydrogen burners.
Simultaneously, Yamaha Motor is collaborating with Shizuoka University on green hydrogen production and methanation technologies. These efforts aim to develop cost-effective solutions for producing e-methane without external heat sources, facilitating CO₂ capture and reuse from exhaust gases in the aluminium melting process.
