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Hydrogen (H2) is one of the key factors in the current discussion on energy transition. As in the case of most energy production methods, the manufacturing processes of H2 must be monitored analytically. The focus here is primarily on compliance with LEL and SIL specifications. In all manufacturing processes, extractive gas analysis is the preferred analytical method for this purpose. Before the sample gas enters the analyser, the residual moisture is removed to protect the measuring cell and avoid falsifying the measured values. Bühler Technologies suggests using a pressurised extractive conditioning system for these applications. In principle, this is constructed as follows: Since no particulate contamination is likely to be found in the sample gas during the electrolysis process, simple sampling points are sufficient, ideally at each outlet of a module. From these, the sample gas is drawn in by a special sample gas pump, which is also capable of conveying any condensate that may occur and fed to a sample gas cooler operating under slight over-pressure. When dimensioning the required flow rates, the lower density of hydrogen on the H2 side must be considered so that it can be throttled to the correct flow rate upstream of the analyser. If there is already sufficient pressure and flow rate in the production process, the pump can be dispensed with. The moisture is separated in the cooler and the dry sample gas is fed into the analyser(s). The over-pressure in the sample gas prevents the ingress of external air and ensures unaltered measurement results. At the same time, the over-pressure forces the condensate out of the system via an automatic condensate drain. Flow and over-pressure are permanently monitored by suitable devices. The piping from the extraction point via the pump head to the automatic condensate drain is made of stainless steel. The same system design is recommended for monitoring oxygen that also accumulates. Due to the high fluctuation of H2, a well-ventilated enclosure is recommended to house the monitoring system. The components used in the system are subject to special procedures in the manufacturing process. Their suitability for the H2/O2 application is partially certified.
Bühler Technologies
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