Compressed Hydrogen Receiver

[Leclerc]

Our process reaction uses a continuous stream of hydrogen, compressed to 90 barg from an OSBL source. We need to install a 20 m3 compressed hydrogen receiver between the compressor and the reactor.

In the first instance, where should I go to obtain a list of design points/ issues concerned with such a receiver?

regards,
Leclerc

 

[TD2K]

Might want to post this in the Boiler and Pressure vessel forum also. My feeling is that from a design/fabrication point of view, they would likely have more input.

 

[SooCS]

TD2K feeling is exactly right, you will need special material and testing procedure to take care of hydrogen induced cracking.

Good luck.

 

[Leclerc]

Its the process design that I'm concerned about - not the mechanical design.

Something along the lines;

Hydrogen in:- I'll need a pipe.
Hydrogen out:- Same pipe will probably do.
Pipe top or bottom:- not critical, but go for top.
Isolation valve between tank and pipeline:- not critical.
Tank will need to be strong enough or relief required:- go for strength.
Tank requires to be inspected:- manholes required.blow-down to safe place, purging and sweetening (plus reverse procedure)
Tank requires to be tested in-situ:- leak and pressure testing? Would lead to small branches for testing fluids and drainage; oh, and pressure gauges.
etc.,
etc..

Safety issues of 20 m3 of 90 bar H2?

 

[aybee]

you need a design to ASME V111 div 1 or maybe 2, you will need a relief valve - strong is not enough. the fabrication quality will need to be good, Hydrogen permeates through the plate and if there are voids ie weld defects they will collect the hydrogen , increase in prssure, and bulge/crack the steel
a HIC Hydrogen Induced Cracking resistant steel is recommended. The flange faces will need to have good sealing capabilities . all pipes welded no screwed connections or all your hydrogen will run away ..if it doesn't catch fire first
Sensitive leak test is a must in my book before the hydrotest..refer ASME V111like the other guys said...good luck...get experienced fabricators , no pick-up truck cowboys