Hydrogen purifiers play a critical role in providing high-purity hydrogen gas for various applications, such as proton exchange membrane fuel cells and gas chromatography. Hewlett Packard offers a range of hydrogen purifiers that utilize advanced technologies to ensure the highest level of purity. In this article, we will explore the different methods used by Hewlett Packard to purify hydrogen and the features, benefits, and issues associated with each method.
Palladium Membrane Hydrogen Purifiers
Hewlett Packard's palladium membrane hydrogen purifiers operate on the principle of pressure-driven diffusion across palladium membranes. These membranes are made of a palladium and silver alloy material that allows only monatomic hydrogen to pass through when heated above 300°C. The hydrogen gas molecules come into contact with the palladium membrane surface, dissociate into monatomic hydrogen, and then pass through the membrane. On the other side of the membrane, the monatomic hydrogen recombines into diatomic hydrogen.
One of the key advantages of palladium membrane purifiers is their ability to provide extremely pure hydrogen gas with no moisture or oxygen carryover. Purity levels of over 999999% can be achieved. These purifiers also require no routine maintenance and have a normal life expectancy of around 5 years. However, there are some issues associated with palladium membrane purifiers, such as the potential for irreversible damage during unexpected power outages and the need for careful temperature control to ensure durability.
Silica Desiccant Hydrogen Purifiers
Hewlett Packard also offers hydrogen purifiers that utilize silica desiccant columns. These purifiers are popular due to their simplicity and cost-effectiveness. The hydrogen gas produced using PEM technology flows through a stainless steel desiccant cartridge filled with silica gel beads. These beads act as a drying agent, removing moisture from the hydrogen and producing high-purity gas that meets industry requirements.
One of the advantages of silica desiccant purifiers is their easy replacement of desiccant and de-ionizer cartridges. They are also cost-effective compared to other purification methods. However, some moisture or oxygen carryover may still exist, and the desiccant needs to be monitored constantly and replaced periodically.
Hpe careers: professional growth opportunities at hewlett packard enterpriseAdsorbent Pressure Swing Adsorption (PSA) Hydrogen Purifiers
Hewlett Packard also utilizes pressure swing adsorption technology to purify hydrogen. This method works by alternating the flow of hydrogen through two columns packed with an adsorbent material, which acts as a molecular sieve. While one column is used to pass hydrogen, the other column undergoes regeneration to remove impurities. This process ensures a continuous flow of hydrogen with no pressure fluctuations or pulsing effects.
Adsorbent PSA hydrogen purifiers offer several benefits, including robust and regenerative technology, no high temperatures or associated high electrical currents, and minimal energy consumption. They also have lower operating costs compared to other purification methods. However, larger cell replacement costs may be involved, and the hydrogen gas used to regenerate the molecular sieve is vented into the atmosphere.
Hewlett Packard offers a range of hydrogen purifiers that utilize advanced technologies to provide high-purity hydrogen gas. Whether you require extremely pure hydrogen with no moisture or oxygen carryover, a cost-effective purification method, or a robust and regenerative technology, Hewlett Packard has a solution to meet your needs. By understanding the features, benefits, and issues associated with each purification method, you can make an informed decision and ensure the quality and reliability of your hydrogen supply.