Hexcel Corporation, a global leader in advanced composites technology, today announced the debut of a Type IV carbon overwrap pressure vessel (COPV), engineered in collaboration with HyPerComp Engineering Inc. (HEI) and built using Hexcel’s high-performance HexTow IM11-R/12K carbon fiber.

“Hexcel’s IM11-R/12K fiber enables the next generation of composite pressure vessels, delivering outstanding burst pressure performance and reliability for critical aerospace and space applications,” said Lyndon Smith, President, Americas & Global Fibers, Hexcel.

Type IV COPVs are advanced pressure vessels made with a polymer liner fully wrapped in continuous carbon fiber. Unlike traditional metal tanks, these vessels are corrosion-resistant and significantly lighter, making them ideal for storing gases like hydrogen, helium, and nitrogen in demanding environments. This design offers excellent processability during filament winding and near-perfect translation of fiber mechanical properties. The vessel is designed to meet the growing demand for lightweight, high-strength pressure vessel solutions across aerospace and space sectors.

“We have a high level of collaboration with Hexcel, which is resulting in the development of Type IV COPVs used in extreme environments. Initial testing has shown excellent delivered fiber strengths and burst pressures,” said Jake Walker, Chief Innovation Officer, HyPerComp. “The combination of Hexcel’s advanced fiber technology and our engineering expertise has set a high standard of performance for qualifying new COPV designs used in space launch and other applications.”

“Hexcel and HyPerComp are well along the path for certification for these advanced Type IV composite pressure vessels,” added Smith. “Our collaboration on this technology fosters a more open, innovative, and competitive market, with applications broadening beyond aerospace.”

The new pressure vessel will be featured at Hexcel’s display September 9-11 in Orlando, Florida at the 2025 Composites and Advanced Materials Expo (CAMX), the largest and most comprehensive event for composites and advanced materials in North America.