[ certification ] body ( so-called NoBo ) to the manufacturer . The certificate is then linked to the manufacturer ’ s certificate .
The process of certification usually follows four steps : the pre-assessment , constructional review , field-test testing and field-test certification ( optional ), and full compliance testing and certification . Fieldtest testing and certification is used if the electrolyser is not fully compliant with relevant standards at the end of the second step .
The objective of the first step is to assess the safety of the electrolyser design by identifying the possible hazards present in all stages of the lifetime of the electrolyser , such as operation , transportation , handling , maintenance , and misuse , among others . The main outcome is to propose design changes to eliminate or mitigate the risks presented by the hazards either by implementing good practice design solutions and / or safeguards . This is an interactive step where a number of sessions are conducted between the certification assessors and the manufacturer designers . It ends when the design has adequate safety implementation . At the end of this step , the design of the electrolyser and the HAZOP document are frozen .
Then the second step is followed and the list of components and their documentation / certificates shall be available . The design of the electrolyser is verified if it meets the requirements of the relevant standards and a test program is identified . The test program includes the testing of the product according to the type tests listed in the product , electrical , functional and EMC standards . Additional tests might be required for components that are not compliant with the relevant standards .
The optional step of field-test testing and certification allows the manufacturer to deploy a limited number of electrolyser systems in the field for a defined period . In this period , the manufacturer can then
develop and implement the required changes . It requires a limited / partial test program that shall be performed in ISO 17025 accredited labs or , alternatively , at the manufacturer ’ s premises with ISO 17025 calibrated measuring instrumentation and witnessed by experienced test engineers . Test reports and a certificate are issued and valid for a defined period .
The final step of full-compliance testing and certification aims to conclude the test program defined in the second step . The tests shall be performed as mentioned in the previous paragraph . The passing of the tests will indicate that the electrolyser complies with the relevant directives and regulations . This needs to be documented and can be used to prove that the manufacturer satisfied the essential requirements to show that the product is safe . Only at this stage the product can be commercialised without limitations .
Ensuring confidence through quality and safety
At Kiwa , we have experience with a broad range of electrolyser technologies , and we help our clients with risk assessment – and management – of components , products and systems , their certification , as well as operational and functional evaluations . We also assist our clients in the purchasing , manufacturing , installation and commissioning of electrolysis plants , helping to ensure both their safety and quality .
About the authors
Rashi Mor Expert in Hydrogen Safety
Hydrogen Tech World | Issue 7 | December 2022 27