Steve Summerhayes

Steve is a seasoned engineer with over a decade of experience across multiple industries, specializing in hydrogen technologies at Element Digital Engineering. He plays a crucial role in designing and implementing advanced solutions for the hydrogen economy, including hydrogen combustion, liquid hydrogen generation, and testing.

Experience

Steve completed extensive research and development within Element's Digital Engineering team, focusing on hydrogen technologies. His collaborative projects span various aspects of hydrogen applications:

• Hydrogen Combustion for Single Stage to Orbit Engine Technologies During this project, Steve led the design of innovative combustion equipment and systems, enhancing techniques for hydrogen combustion specifically tailored for single-stress-to-orbit engines.
• Development of the UK's First Small Scale Commercial Hydrogen Liquefier Post-development, Steve spearheaded the team that introduced the UK's first small-scale commercial hydrogen liquefier, aiming to broaden hydrogen accessibility across industries.
• Design and Testing of Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Liquid Hydrogen Fuel System Steve was instrumental in the end-to-end design and execution of tests for a liquid hydrogen fuel system in unmanned aerial vehicles, covering comprehensive system requirements from storage to operation.
• Concept Design of LH2 System for Aerobatic Aircraft Retrofit Steve led the conceptualization and preliminary design phases of a liquid hydrogen system, assessing its integration into existing aerobatic aircraft operation to promote sustainable aviation solutions.
• Development of Liquid Hydrogen Fuel System for Commercial Flight Certification Steve managed a team focused on developing a liquid hydrogen fuel system that meets rigorous certification standards for commercial aviation, ensuring compliance and safety.
• Design and Testing of Multiple LH2 Test Systems Steve directed the design and validation of various LH2 test systems, advancing the technological understanding and application of liquid hydrogen in different settings.

Steve is based in our Bristol, Bradley Stoke office.

Career Highlights

• Pioneered hydrogen combustion techniques for orbital engine technologies.
• Developed the UK's first small-scale commercial hydrogen liquefier.
• Led the conceptualization and testing of a liquid hydrogen fuel system for aerobatic aircraft retrofitting.
• Managed the design and implementation of multiple LH2 test systems, significantly advancing the practical applications of hydrogen technologies.