H 2
TANK VALVES
Innovative solutions for hydrogen supply
H2 tank valves by Poppe + Potthoff successfully complete required tests as part of the certification according to R134 .
Text and images from Poppe + Potthoff
Fig . 1 : The modular design of the TOPAQ system solution allows application-optimized system architectures to reliably supply fuel cells or combustion engines with hydrogen . Image : Poppe + Potthof
A reliable flow of hydrogen ( H2 ) is essential in high-pressure storage applications such as in a commercial vehicle or filling station , for short refueling times . With its TOPAQ hydrogen supply system , the German family-owned company Poppe + Potthoff ( P + P ) offers a modular system solution that enables a safe and efficient hydrogen flow from the tank to the fuel cell or hydrogen engine . Part of this system solution are the tank valves developed by P + P , which have now successfully completed the required tests according to test standard R134 with extension tests according to HGV3.1 . The On Tank Valve ( OTV ) can be fitted to individual tank cylinders . Several tanks can be filled in parallel via a distribution rail ( Parallel Charging Unit ( PCU ) or also known as a manifold ). Depending on the system design , refueling can take place at 350 bar or 700 bar . The innovative flow routing of the hydrogen through the OTV , together with flow rates that achieve Kv values > 0.28 during refueling , enable short refueling times . The optimized H2 inflow into the tank also prevents hotspots inside the tank cylinders .
Short refueling times during operation and rapid degassing in the event of a fire
During development , the OTV was optimized to weigh less than 1400 g with a diameter of 160 mm , including a solenoid valve . The built-in solenoid valve is ‘ normally closed ’ so that the tanks are closed pressure-tight when no electrical current is present . The cable outlets are bundled on one side , which makes installation and positioning easy . The modular design allows easy integration of various functionalities according to customer requirements . The OTV has a central connection for filling and emptying , as well as an optional connection for a pressure sensor , for example . The Thermal Pressure Relief Device ( TPRD ) enables rapid , spatially targeted degassing in the event of a fire and prevents the uncontrolled leakage of hydrogen from the tanks . The component can be installed in different valve variants via a standardized interface : installed in an OTV , as an End Plug and as a Remote TPRD . While the OTV is located at the front and the End Plug TPRD at the rear end of the tank cylinder , the Remote TPRD is attached to the side of the tanks . This
28 Valve World October 2024 www . valve-world . net