Liquid H2

In the global transition from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources, the role of green hydrogen is becoming increasingly significant, with production volumes expanding annually.

Green hydrogen is characterized by its minimal carbon footprint, as it is produced through electrolysis powered by renewable electricity, primarily from solar and wind energy. While a portion of this renewable electricity is consumed directly as electrical energy, another portion is converted into hydrogen gas. This hydrogen serves either as an energy storage medium or as a clean fuel for various applications, particularly in the mobility sector.

Hydrogen can be stored in several ways: by compression to high pressures, typically 350 or 700 bar, or by cryogenic cooling and liquefaction to temperatures below -250°C.

The choice between compressed gaseous hydrogen and liquid hydrogen storage depends on the specific application and volume requirements. Liquefaction is particularly advantageous when large volumes of hydrogen need to be transported over extended distances, or when space constraints within a vehicle necessitate a more compact storage solution than the voluminous tanks required for compressed gas.

Liquid Hydrogen Production

Various technologies are employed for hydrogen liquefaction, catering to different production scales.
The Stirling Cryogenerator is a viable solution for smaller-scale liquid hydrogen production, such as at solar and wind farms. Its typical production capacity ranges from 5 to 400 kg per day, making it suitable for localized or distributed green hydrogen initiatives.

Boil-Off Gas (BOG) Management with a Hydrogen Liquefier

When liquid hydrogen is stored, heat ingress into the tank inevitably leads to a gradual evaporation of the liquid, a phenomenon known as Boil-Off Gas (BOG). To prevent the uncontrolled venting of this valuable gas and the associated energy loss, BOG must be managed effectively. Re-liquefaction of the boil-off gas is a common strategy. Stirling Cryogenics offers specialized BOG management solutions for liquid hydrogen storage tanks, ensuring efficient recovery and utilization of this hydrogen gas.

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