As Europe ambitiously pursues its goals for greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction and economic decarbonization, the significance of green hydrogen in this endeavor cannot be overstated. Hydrogen, the simplest and most abundant element in the universe, stands at the forefront of this transformative journey. While the hydrogen industry has witnessed rapid growth recently, its application is not novel. The United Kingdom, a global leader in the hydrogen market, boasts over a century of hydrogen production and distribution. Currently, the global production of hydrogen exceeds 70 million tonnes annually, predominantly derived from fossil fuels. However, the evolution towards green hydrogen production is pivotal for achieving Europe’s environmental and economic objectives.

Hydrogen Utilization: A Historical Perspective

Hydrogen’s role in industrial processes is well-established, with significant applications in refineries, ammonia and methanol production, and steel manufacturing through the direct reduction of iron minerals. Interestingly, 64% of hydrogen production is onsite or captive, highlighting its integral role in various industrial processes. Given its classification under the Gas Act 1986, hydrogen is regulated within the gas network, ensuring compliance with British Safety Standards. This regulatory framework underscores the meticulous attention to safety and efficiency in hydrogen production and utilization.

 

Safety Considerations in Hydrogen Production

The production of hydrogen, especially within the context of green hydrogen for environmental sustainability, necessitates stringent safety measures. Hydrogen’s physical properties, such as rapid diffusion and high buoyancy, offer unique safety advantages if properly harnessed in production and refueling facilities. Furthermore, the nuances of hydrogen’s explosive characteristics compared to other gases like LPG and natural gas inform the design and operational procedures of production equipment, ensuring minimal risk in the event of leaks or fires.

Advanced Safety Technologies: The MOD-1040 Oxygen Analyzer

A leap in safety technology is embodied in the MOD-1040 Oxygen Analyzer, a cutting-edge device designed for direct oxygen content measurement in high-pressure environments. Its optical sensor technology, based on fluorescence quenching, enables accurate, reliable measurements crucial for the safe production of green hydrogen. With SIL-2 certification in compliance with IEC 61508-2:2010 standards, the MOD-1040 epitomizes the commitment to the highest safety and reliability standards in hydrogen production.

The analyzer’s robust construction, user-friendly interface, and compact design make it an ideal choice for direct installation on process lines, enhancing safety and operational efficiency. By eliminating the need for complex sampling systems, the MOD-1040 also contributes to cost reduction, supporting the economic viability of hydrogen as a key energy source.

Green Hydrogen Production – Customer Success Story

In a landmark advancement for the hydrogen energy sector, Modcon Systems is proud to announce the remarkable success of the Oxygen content continuous monitoring in enhancing the safety and efficiency of green hydrogen production.

Our customer, a leading producer of green hydrogen production systems, faced significant challenges with traditional oxygen analysis methods. These conventional technologies, including paramagnetic, zirconia, electrochemical, and TDL could not withstand the high pressures of hydrogen gas, necessitating complex and risky sample extraction processes.

One of the pivotal challenges was the requirement for in-situ installation within environments classified as Zone 1 hazardous areas. Furthermore, it was required to guarantee SIL2 safety integrity level, as per IEC 61508-2:2010, ensuring high reliability and safety for critical process controls.

Key Benefits of the MOD-1040:

• Direct Measurement Capability: The MOD-1040’s advanced optical sensor technology measures oxygen content accurately at high pressures up to 200 Barg, directly within the process stream. This capability significantly reduces the potential for gas leaks and the need for hazardous area classifications.
• Unparalleled Safety and Efficiency: With its retractable process connections, the MOD-1040 ensures easy installation, calibration, and maintenance, all while operating under harsh conditions. This reduces downtime and enhances overall operational efficiency.
• Cost-Effective Operations: By simplifying system design and reducing the need for additional safety measures, the MOD-1040 cuts operational costs and boosts profitability in green hydrogen production.

We invite all stakeholders and interested parties to subscribe to our Modcon Industry Insights for the latest updates, innovations, and insights in hydrogen technology. For more information on the MOD-1040 Oxygen Analyzer or to subscribe to our newsletter, please visit our website or contact us for more information.