Facility and method for dispensing liquefied hydrogen

Abstract

An installation for dispensing liquefied hydrogen is disclosed, the installation comprising a source of gaseous hydrogen (2), a liquefier (3), at least one device for storing liquid hydrogen (4), the liquefier (3) comprising an outlet connected to an inlet of the storage device (4) via a liquid circuit (5), the installation (1) comprising a liquid filling circuit (12) provided with a first end connected to the storage device (4) and a second end intended to be removably connected to a mobile liquid tank (6) to be filled, the installation (1) further comprising a gas recovery circuit (7) provided with a first end intended to be removably connected to the second end of the tank (6) and a second end connected to a receiving member of the installation (1), the gas recovery circuit (7) comprising a pressure and / or flow rate regulation member (8) such as a valve for reducing the pressure in the mobile liquid tank (6) to a predetermined filling pressure (Pr), the installation (1) comprising an electronic control member (10) comprising a microprocessor configured to receive at least one filling request signal (13) from the mobile liquid tank (6), the pressure and / or flow rate regulation member (8) being adjustable and the electronic control member (10) being configured to drive the latter to adjust the pressure level in the mobile liquid tank (6) to the determined filling pressure (Pr) based on the received filling request signal (13).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a facility and a method for dispensing liquefied hydrogen.

[0002] The present invention more particularly relates to a facility for dispensing liquefied hydrogen, the facility comprising a source of gaseous hydrogen, a liquefier comprising an inlet connected to the source and an outlet connected to an inlet of a storage container of liquid hydrogen via a liquid circuit, the storage container being intended for storing the liquefied hydrogen produced by the liquefier therein, the facility comprising a liquid filling circuit provided with a first end connected to the storage container and a second end intended to be removably connected to a mobile liquid tank such as a semi-trailer to be filled, the facility further comprising a gas recovery circuit provided with a first end intended to be removably connected to the second end of the tank and a second end connected to a receiving member of the facility, in particular to the inlet of the liquefier, the gas recovery circuit comprising a pressure and / or flow rate regulating member such as a valve enabling to reduce the pressure in the mobile liquid tank to a predetermined filling pressure, the facility comprising an electronic control unit comprising a microprocessor configured to control all or part of the facility, the electronic control unit being configured to receive at least one signal requesting to fill a mobile liquid tank.

[0003] The hydrogen liquefier is generally configured to operate under nominal load and to produce liquid hydrogen at a given temperature. The produced liquid hydrogen is stored in one or more storage containers from which the mobile tanks (semi-trailers) are filled.

[0004] The liquefier storage container and the associated loading procedure for filling the trailers from the storage container are also designed to operate under fixed operating conditions. Indeed, all these parameters are generally optimized during the design phase. Then, during the operating phase, these parameters remain unchanged whatever the trailers to be filled and the customers receiving the deliveries.

[0005] However, there are generally several customers (reception points) that will receive deliveries of liquid hydrogen from this facility, these customers having different logistics and different expectations (different hydrogen density or coldness).

[0006] To this end, the nominal liquefied hydrogen production point is set at a level necessary to meet the most demanding customers. The result is that the facility wastes part of its energy to produce "over-qualified" hydrogen for certain users.

[0007] An object of the present invention is to overcome all or some of the above-mentioned drawbacks of the prior art.

[0008] Therefore, a substantial feature of the facility according to the invention, which also conforms to the general definition given in the preceding preamble, is that the pressure and / or flow rate regulating member is adjustable, and the electronic control unit is configured to control the latter to adjust the pressure level in the mobile liquid tank to a predetermined filling pressure according to a received filling request signal.

[0009] This invention enables the can to be filled at the optimal pressure to meet the customer's delivery expectations without generating excessive evaporation gases during filling.

[0010] In contrast, according to known solutions, the pressure applied to the mobile tank is too low for some deliveries. This means that the energy consumed is not utilized and is costly for the facility. In fact, it generates more flash gas than under high-pressure conditions. This flash gas generated when filling the tank at relatively low pressure is not transported. This gas is either vented or reliquefied in a liquefier. However, if the pressure is too low when the tank leaves, additional liquid will be evaporated to pressurize it at the station (increasing the boil-off gas).

[0011] Furthermore, embodiments of the present invention may include one or more of the following features:

[0012] - The gas recovery circuit includes a compression member disposed between a pressure and / or flow rate regulating member and a second end connected to the liquefier, the compression member being configured to compress the gas flow from the first end to a predetermined pressure for reinjection into the liquefier circuit.

[0013] - The predetermined filling pressure can be selected between the predetermined minimum pressure and the predetermined maximum pressure.

[0014] -The predetermined minimum pressure (Pmini) is equal to 1.05 bar.

[0015] - The compression member is configured to operate at a minimum intake pressure at its inlet, the predetermined minimum pressure (Pmini) being equal to a predetermined value corresponding at least to the pressure loss in the gas recovery loop between the first end of the compression member and the inlet.

[0016] - The predetermined maximum pressure is equal to the pressure value inside the storage container, minus, where appropriate, the pressure loss value between the storage container and the second end of the liquid filling loop. The electronic control unit is configured to receive at least one signal requesting the filling of a moving liquid tank, the signal including at least one of the following filling parameters: the maximum allowable pressure level in the tank, the fluid pressure level required for the tank to deliver liquefied hydrogen to one or more receiving points after filling, the amount of liquefied hydrogen to be filled in the tank, the distance the tank must travel after filling to deliver liquefied hydrogen to one or more receiving points, the number of receiving points the tank must deliver liquefied hydrogen to after filling, the temperature in the storage container, and the volume of the tank; the electronic control unit is configured to calculate the predetermined filling pressure level based on the one or more parameters.

[0017] - The liquefier is a type with controlled variable cooling power, meaning it can change the temperature of the produced liquid hydrogen and specifically produce liquid hydrogen that is supercooled relative to its saturation state. The electronic control unit is configured to control the temperature level of the liquid hydrogen produced in the storage container based on received request signals.

[0018] - The liquid filling circuit includes two extraction pipes connected at two different heights of the storage container to extract hydrogen from the storage container under different thermodynamic conditions.

[0019] The facility includes two separate storage containers filled at different liquid hydrogen temperatures. The first end of a liquid filling circuit is connected to the storage containers. The liquid filling circuit includes one or more valves configured to allow the tank to be filled with a mixture of liquid from the storage containers to achieve a predetermined liquid temperature.

[0020] The present invention also relates to a method for distributing liquefied hydrogen using a facility according to any one of the features described above or below, the method comprising the steps of generating a signal requesting filling of a mobile liquid tank, calculating a predetermined filling pressure level based on the signal, and filling the tank with liquid hydrogen at the predetermined filling pressure level.

[0021] Based on other possible characteristics:

[0022] - The predetermined filling pressure level is adjusted during the filling step by controlling the opening of the pressure and / or flow rate regulating member.

[0023] - The control of the opening of the pressure and / or flow rate regulating components is carried out during and / or before and / or after tank degassing operations during the delivery of liquid hydrogen into the tank.

[0024] The step of generating a fill request signal is performed manually and / or via telemetry, and the signal is transmitted to the facility.

[0025] The method includes the steps of calculating a predetermined temperature value of the liquefied hydrogen generated in the storage container based on the signal before transferring the liquid hydrogen from the storage container to the tank, and the step of filling the storage container with liquefied hydrogen at the predetermined temperature.

[0026] The method includes the steps of filling two separate storage containers with liquefied hydrogen at different temperatures before transferring liquid hydrogen from the storage containers to the tank, the steps of calculating a predetermined liquefied hydrogen temperature value based on the signal, and the steps of filling the tank at the predetermined temperature via a mixture of liquefied hydrogen from the storage containers.

[0027] The present invention may also relate to any alternative apparatus or method that includes any combination of the features described above or below within the scope of the claims.

[0028] Other specific features and advantages will become apparent from the following description given with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0029] [ Figure 1 This is a schematic partial view illustrating an example of the structure and operation of an embodiment of a liquefied hydrogen distribution facility according to the present invention.

[0030] [ Figure 2 The image shows details of such a facility, in a first alternative embodiment, for controlling the temperature of the produced and stored liquid hydrogen.

[0031] [ Figure 3 The image shows details of a facility for drawing liquid at different liquid levels in a storage container, according to a second alternative embodiment.

[0032] [ Figure 4 The image shows details of such a facility with several storage containers in a third alternative embodiment.

[0033] Figure 1 The liquefied hydrogen distribution facility 1 depicted includes a gaseous hydrogen source 2, a liquefier 3, and at least one liquid hydrogen storage container 4.

[0034] Source 2 may include a hydrogen supply network and / or hydrogen production equipment, such as an electrolyzer.

[0035] The liquefier 3 is a liquefier that uses, for example, a circulating gas (including, for example, hydrogen and / or helium) that undergoes a thermodynamic cycle, generating a cooling capacity at one end of the cycle, which exchanges heat with the hydrogen stream to be cooled in order to liquefy it.

[0036] Therefore, the liquefier 3 includes an inlet connected to the source 2 and an outlet connected to the inlet of the storage container 4 via the liquid circuit 5, so as to store the liquefied hydrogen produced by the liquefier 3 therein.

[0037] Facility 1 further includes a liquid filling circuit 12, which is provided with a first end connected to the bottom of the storage container 4 and a second end designed to be removably connected to a mobile liquid tank 6 (such as a semi-trailer) to be filled for supplying liquid hydrogen thereto.

[0038] Facility 1 further includes a gas recovery circuit 7 (for recovering evaporated gas contained in the tank 6 to be filled), the gas recovery circuit being provided with a first end intended to be removably connected to a second end (typically the upper end) of the storage container 4 and a second end connected to a receiving member of facility 1.

[0039] The gas recovery circuit 7 includes a pressure and / or flow rate regulating element 8, such as a valve that enables the pressure in the movable liquid tank 6 to be reduced to a predetermined filling pressure Pr. This pressure and / or flow rate regulating element 8 is adjustable, meaning that it enables the setting of the residual pressure level (controlled degassing) in the tank 6.

[0040] For example, the second end is connected to the inlet of liquefier 3 to recover gaseous hydrogen to be liquefied in the liquefier circuit.

[0041] For this purpose, the gas recovery circuit 7 preferably includes a compression member 11, such as a compressor (or compression unit), placed between the pressure and / or flow rate regulating members 8. Thus, the compressor 11 can be configured to compress the gas flow from the first end to a predetermined pressure so as to reinject it into the circuit of hydrogen to be liquefied, such as in the liquefier 3.

[0042] As shown, downstream of compressor 11, the recovered evaporated gas stream can be circulated, for example, in a channel for cooling a set of exchangers in liquefaction 3, separated from the main circuit 5 for liquefying hydrogen supplied from the source. In other words, the evaporated gas stream can be liquefied separately from the main hydrogen stream. This recovered and cooled evaporated gas can be transported in conduit 17 (possibly equipped with valve 27) as it exits liquefaction 3, which can be connected to liquid circuit 5 (after exiting the liquefaction 3, for example at or just before the inlet to storage container 4). As shown, this cooled (and at least partially liquefied where appropriate) gas can be mixed with liquid hydrogen in liquid circuit 5, for example, downstream of the final expansion member 15 (e.g., turbine and / or valve) of liquid circuit 5.

[0043] As also shown, the upper end of the storage container 4 can be connected to the inlet of the compressor 11 via a pipe 14 (preferably equipped with a valve 24). This allows the evaporated gas to be recovered from the storage container 4 in the compressor, where appropriate, for its recirculation and liquefaction.

[0044] Facility 1 may include one or a group of valves and suitable components, which are not shown for simplicity.

[0045] Facility 1 includes an electronic control unit 10, which includes a microprocessor (e.g., a computer or programmable electronic calculator) configured to control all or part of facility 1. This control unit 10 may be housed in facility 1 and / or remotely controlled and consists of one or more electronic units.

[0046] This electronic control unit 10 is configured to receive at least one signal 13 requesting the filling of a mobile liquid tank 6 to be filled.

[0047] The electronic control unit 10 is configured to control the pressure and / or flow rate regulating member 8 to adjust the pressure level in the mobile liquid tank 6 being filled at a predetermined filling pressure Pr, based on a received request signal 13. This allows for adjustment of the pressure of the tank 6, which will be filled at an optimal pressure, taking into account the needs and limitations of the mobile tank 6, particularly for its subsequent delivery. Therefore, the filling pressure Pr can be calculated to correspond to optimal thermodynamic conditions so as not to exceed the limit specified by the customer who will deliver liquefied gas to it via the tank 6.

[0048] The predetermined filling pressure Pr is selected between the predetermined minimum pressure Pmini and the predetermined maximum pressure Pmax.

[0049] This predetermined minimum pressure Pmini is, for example, equal to a predetermined fixed value, such as 1.05 bar, especially in cases where some of the evaporating gas (BOG) can be discharged from tank 6 (after additional decompression before leaving the filled tank 6).

[0050] In the case that the evaporated gas is completely recovered from tank 6 at facility 1, the minimum pressure Pmini can be equal to the minimum inlet pressure of compression unit 11 plus the pressure loss overcome by the return of the evaporated gas between tank 6 and the inlet of compression unit 11.

[0051] The predetermined maximum pressure Pmax is equal to the pressure value inside storage container 4, where appropriate, minus the pressure loss between storage container 4 and the second end of liquid filling circuit 12. In other words, if the delivery pump cannot be used to deliver liquid into the liquid filling circuit, this predetermined maximum pressure Pmax can be specified by subtracting the pressure loss between storage container 4 and tank 6 (trailer) from the pressure in storage container 4 of facility 1.

[0052] Conversely, if a delivery pump is available in the liquid filling circuit, this predetermined maximum pressure Pmax can be specified by the pressure of the facility's storage container 4.

[0053] Therefore, the electronic control unit 10 is configured to receive at least one signal 13 requesting the filling of the mobile liquid tank 6, the signal specifying at least one filling parameter.

[0054] This signal 13 may include at least one of the following filling parameters: the maximum allowable pressure level in tank 6, the fluid pressure level required for tank 6 to deliver liquefied hydrogen to one or more receiving points after filling, the amount of liquefied hydrogen to be filled in tank 6, the distance that tank 6 must travel after filling to deliver liquefied hydrogen to one or more receiving points, the number of receiving points that tank 6 must deliver liquefied hydrogen to after filling, and the volume of tank 6.

[0055] The electronic control unit 10 is configured to calculate the optimal predetermined filling pressure level Pr based on this or these parameters.

[0056] In other words, Facility 1 optimizes and adapts the filling pressure of mobile tank 6 based on one or more key logistics parameters related to the next delivery, such as the distance and expectations of the customer to whom the liquid hydrogen is to be delivered.

[0057] These optimal thermodynamic filling conditions can be determined automatically using programming tools.

[0058] For example, the customer (delivery point) can set a filling temperature limit to purchase only cold hydrogen at a specific temperature. As the saturation pressure (and therefore temperature) within moving tank 6 increases with the distance traveled (it increases linearly for a specified tank 6 level), the customer can specify the highest acceptable delivery temperature for their receiving station.

[0059] Facility 1 can also receive information about the number of stations receiving delivery (the rate of pressure increase increases with the number of stations receiving delivery and the decrease in liquid level in mobile delivery tank 6).

[0060] The electronic control unit 10 is configured to calculate the optimal thermodynamic fill point (pressure between Pmin and Pmax) so as not to exceed one or more customer-specified limits.

[0061] This information, or these parameters, can be transmitted manually and / or via a telemetry-type transmission system. For example, logistics and tank (trailer) data are transmitted to an electronic control unit 10, which then calculates the optimal filling pressure Pr.

[0062] Alternatively, the optimal filling pressure of tank 6 may be transmitted from tank 6, for example, in the loading / unloading area, via the operator responsible for filling tank 6.

[0063] There are several types of filling that can achieve the optimal thermodynamic filling point calculated for this purpose.

[0064] For example, considering the next planned liquid delivery, the electronic control unit 10 can calculate the ideal filling pressure for tank 6. The optimal pressure value is preferably the maximum value that will ensure compliance with customer requirements and road regulations. Choosing the maximum possible pressure instead of the lower default value (typically 1.15 bar) allows for limiting the amount of vaporized gas that will be generated due to flash evaporation when filling tank 6. This also facilitates the recirculation of vaporized gas (requiring less pressure reduction).

[0065] Therefore, the filling pressure of tank 6 can be adjusted by opening the pressure and / or flow rate regulating member 8 (opening degree and / or opening time length) to reduce the pressure in the tank 6 to be filled connected to facility 1.

[0066] In the case where facility 1 includes several filling lines that allow for the simultaneous filling of several mobile tanks 6, each component 8 (e.g., a valve) is preferably individually controllable.

[0067] For example, this or these valves 8 can be controlled and / or automated with a variable setpoint. Therefore, the pressure setpoint of this component 8 can be controlled, for example, via a "PIC" valve controller 18 (an automatic balancing and control valve independent of pressure). Of course, any other suitable type of valve and controller can be considered.

[0068] This controlled depressurization step in tank 6 is preferably performed before the liquid filling step and is carried out to the ideal pressure calculated as described above. This avoids venting into the open air and promotes the recirculation of evaporated gases within facility 1. Furthermore, the depressurization step is shorter compared to existing technologies.

[0069] Depending on the planned filling frequency of tank 6, the number of logistics and loading / unloading areas, facility 1 may include one or more gas recovery loops 7 (insulated return lines) leading to liquefier 3.

[0070] For example, for a liquefier 3 with a relatively small size or capacity, a single tank 6 can be depressurized / filled in one go and a single gas return line 7 may be sufficient. On the other hand, if several tanks 6 filling operations are possible (possibly at different optimal thermodynamic filling points), separate gas return lines 7 can be envisioned.

[0071] Therefore, the setpoint of filling tank 6 will affect the pressure setpoint of the associated return line 7. Several return lines can benefit from the same insulation.

[0072] If the expected delivery conditions are the same over a relatively long period of time (e.g., several days and especially more than 15 days), facility 1 can be configured to modify the predetermined pressure in the storage container 4 that receives the liquid from liquefier 3. If necessary, this also makes it possible to adapt facility 1 to the optimal pressure of filling tank 6.

[0073] If the filling pump in the liquid filling circuit 12 is available, this target pressure of the storage container 4 is preferably equal to the filling pressure of the tank 6.

[0074] Without using a pump to fill tank 6, a sufficient pressure differential is maintained between storage container 4 and tank 6 to overcome pressure loss in the piping system of filling loop 12 and to maintain the desired liquid filling flow rate. This pressure differential can be from 100 mbar to 500 mbar, and more preferably from 200 mbar to 300 mbar (e.g., depending on the length and diameter of the piping system of loop 12).

[0075] Preferably, the evaporation management system must be variable in order to utilize higher boiling pressures.

[0076] Therefore, although the structure is simple and inexpensive, the present invention enables the optimization of the entire chain from the liquefier 3 to the receiving station where the liquefied gas is delivered from the mobile tank 6. The present invention enables the filling of the tank 6 (trailer) to be adapted to optimal thermodynamic conditions in order to meet the requirements of one or more end customers to whom the liquid is delivered, while minimizing the cost of facility 1 (in particular, without unnecessary liquefaction and cooling power).

[0077] The facilities and methods allow for filling cryogenic liquid delivery tank 6 for optimal logistics chain (especially minimizing evaporative gases during tank 6 filling).

[0078] In addition, as mentioned above, the thermodynamic conditions (e.g., pressure and / or temperature) in the storage container 4 can be adjusted in consideration of subsequent delivery.

[0079] As in Figure 2 As illustrated in the diagram, when the liquefier 3 is of the type capable of producing supercooled and flexible liquefied hydrogen, the facility 1 can be additionally controlled by modifying the temperature Tl of the liquid produced according to one or more of the aforementioned parameters.

[0080] For example, in the case where facility 1 includes a single available storage container 4, the temperature of the liquefied hydrogen will affect the pressure generated when the tank 6 is moved, for a given filling pressure of tank 6 (e.g., 1.15 bar to 2 bar, and preferably 1.15 to 1.5 bar).

[0081] Specifically, the tank 6 filled with subcooled liquid hydrogen reaches equilibrium during its operation, and the pressure drops to the saturation pressure. The optimal temperature of the liquid hydrogen entering the tank 6 can also be determined by a programmed electronic control unit 10. Moreover, taking into account parameters of filling requests (next delivery or multiple deliveries), the temperature of the generated liquefied hydrogen (subcooled or otherwise) can be adjusted and injected into the bottom of the storage container 4. Specifically, the subcooled hydrogen will be stored at the bottom of the storage container 4 due to the stratification of hydrogen inside the storage container 4.

[0082] Therefore, for example, if a customer requires relatively high-quality liquid hydrogen, the necessary amount of subcooled hydrogen must be produced and injected into the bottom. On the other hand, for customers with less demanding requirements, producing saturated liquid hydrogen is sufficient to meet their needs.

[0083] The filling rate of tank 6 is typically greater than that of storage container 4. Therefore, it is preferable to anticipate the filling of storage container 4, especially in terms of temperature.

[0084] Therefore, it is preferable to fill the bottom of storage container 4 before filling tank 6 with subcooled liquid hydrogen. At the end of filling storage container 4, the amount of subcooled hydrogen produced and delivered to the bottom of storage container 4 must at least correspond to the mass to be filled into tank 6. This mass can be optimized to additionally compensate for heat input from the loop line. Based on the liquefied hydrogen production rate (which can vary with temperature) and the expected mass to be filled into tank 6, facility 1 (e.g., unit 10) can be configured to determine, for example, the optimized start time and duration of subcooled hydrogen production.

[0085] like Figure 3 As schematically illustrated, for the production of subcooled hydrogen with fewer variables, the liquid-filled loop 12 may include one or more additional outlets to the storage container 4, which are connected to different heights of the storage container 4 via separate lines 121, 122. This allows liquid to be extracted from the storage container 4 by utilizing the stratification of hydrogen in the storage container 4 (subcooled hydrogen at the bottom and saturated hydrogen at the top near the liquid / gas interface).

[0086] For example, if the optimal temperature required for filling is the saturation temperature, the intermediate storage container outlet 121 can be used to extract liquid. The outlet can be connected via a separate pipeline (and / or connected to a common pipeline).

[0087] like Figure 4 As schematically shown, in the case where two (or more) storage containers 4 are available in facility 1, one storage container 4 can be filled with saturated hydrogen at saturation temperature Tl1, while the other storage container 4 can be filled with supercooled liquid hydrogen (temperature Tl2).

[0088] The electronic control unit 10 can be configured (programmed) to determine the appropriate mixture of hydrogen from these storage containers 4 to fill the tank 6 at an optimal target temperature. Regulation can be achieved by one or a set of control valves that control the flow drawn from the storage containers 4.

[0089] Storage container 4 containing supercooled liquid can be used to compensate for flash evaporation and cooling losses, and can be used to fill tank 6 with very cold hydrogen if necessary to achieve the desired optimal thermodynamic fill point.

[0090] Therefore, in this variant, facility 1 enables the production of subcooled hydrogen at an optimized temperature and in an optimized quantity. This hydrogen can be stored at the bottom of storage container 4 for use in filling tank 6 to achieve the optimal thermodynamic fill point.

[0091] Tank 6 can be filled by active pumping and / or a simple passive connection with differential pressure.

[0092] Therefore, device 1 enables the can to reach the filling pressure via a controlled opening of pressure regulating member 8, so as to fill the can with liquid. After filling, this pressure regulating member 8 (which can form part of the movable can 6) can be opened to further depressurize the can 6 to a second, lower pressure suitable for, for example, transportation or delivery.

Claims

1. A facility for distributing liquefied hydrogen, the facility comprising a gaseous hydrogen source (2), a liquefier (3), and at least one liquid hydrogen storage container (4), the liquefier (3) comprising an inlet connected to the source (2) and an outlet connected via a liquid circuit (5) to the inlet of the storage container (4), the storage container being used to store liquefied hydrogen produced by the liquefier (3) therein, the facility (1) comprising a liquid filling circuit (12) having a first end connected to the storage container (4) and a second end intended to be removably connected to a first end of a mobile liquid tank (6) to be filled, such as a semi-trailer, the facility (1) further comprising a gas recovery circuit (7) having a first end intended to be removably connected to a second end of said tank (6) and a second end connected to a receiving member of the facility (1), the gas recovery circuit (7) being... The facility (1) includes pressure and / or flow rate regulating components (8), such as valves that enable the pressure in the mobile liquid tank (6) to be reduced to a predetermined filling pressure (Pr), the predetermined filling pressure (Pr) being selectable between a predetermined minimum pressure (Pmini) and a predetermined maximum pressure (Pmax). The facility (1) includes an electronic control unit (10) comprising a microprocessor configured to control all or part of the facility (1). The electronic control unit (10) is configured to receive at least one signal (13) requesting filling of the mobile liquid tank (6). The facility (1) is characterized in that the pressure and / or flow rate regulating component (8) is adjustable, and the electronic control unit (10) is configured to control the latter to adjust the pressure level in the mobile liquid tank (6) to the predetermined filling pressure (Pr) according to the received filling request signal (13).

2. The facility as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The receiving component of the facility (1) is the inlet of the liquefier (3).

3. The facility as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The gas recovery circuit (7) includes a compression member (11) disposed between the pressure and / or flow rate regulating member (8) and the second end connected to the liquefier, the compression member (11) being configured to compress the gas flow from the first end to a predetermined pressure so as to reinject it into the circuit of the liquefier (3) for the hydrogen to be liquefied.

4. The facility as claimed in claim 1, characterized in that, The predetermined minimum pressure (Pmini) is equal to 1.05 bar.

5. The facility as described in claim 3, characterized in that, The compression member (11) is configured to operate at a minimum intake pressure at the inlet of the compression member (11), the predetermined minimum pressure (Pmini) being equal to the minimum intake pressure of the compression member (11) increased by at least a predetermined value corresponding to the pressure loss in the gas recovery loop (7) between the first end of the compression member (11) and the inlet.

6. The facility as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The predetermined maximum pressure (Pmax) is equal to the pressure value inside the storage container (4) minus, where appropriate, the pressure loss value between the storage container (4) and the second end of the liquid filling circuit (12).

7. The facility as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The electronic control unit (10) is configured to receive at least one signal (13) requesting the filling of a mobile liquid tank (6), the signal including at least one of the following filling parameters: the maximum allowable pressure level in the tank (6), the fluid pressure level required for the tank (6) to deliver liquefied hydrogen to one or more receiving points after filling, the amount of liquefied hydrogen to be filled in the tank (6), the distance the tank (6) must travel after filling to deliver liquefied hydrogen to the one or more receiving points, the number of receiving points to which the tank (6) must be delivered liquefied hydrogen after filling, the temperature in the storage container (4), and the volume of the tank (6); and the electronic control unit (10) is configured to calculate the predetermined filling pressure (Pr) based on the one or more parameters.

8. The facility as claimed in claim 6, characterized in that, The electronic control unit (10) is configured to receive at least one signal (13) requesting the filling of a mobile liquid tank (6), the signal including at least one of the following filling parameters: the maximum allowable pressure level in the tank (6), the fluid pressure level required for the tank (6) to deliver liquefied hydrogen to one or more receiving points after filling, the amount of liquefied hydrogen to be filled in the tank (6), the distance the tank (6) must travel after filling to deliver liquefied hydrogen to the one or more receiving points, the number of receiving points to which the tank (6) must be delivered liquefied hydrogen after filling, the temperature in the storage container (4), and the volume of the tank (6); and the electronic control unit (10) is configured to calculate the predetermined filling pressure (Pr) based on the one or more parameters.

9. The facility as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The liquefier (3) is of the type with controlled variable cooling power, that is, it is possible to change the temperature (Tl) of the liquid hydrogen produced and specifically produce liquid hydrogen that is supercooled relative to its saturation state, and the electronic control unit (10) is configured to control the temperature level of the liquid hydrogen produced in the storage container (4) according to the received request signal.

10. The facility as claimed in claim 6, characterized in that, The liquefier (3) is of the type with controlled variable cooling power, that is, it is possible to change the temperature (Tl) of the liquid hydrogen produced and specifically produce liquid hydrogen that is supercooled relative to its saturation state, and the electronic control unit (10) is configured to control the temperature level of the liquid hydrogen produced in the storage container (4) according to the received request signal.

11. The facility as claimed in claim 7, characterized in that, The liquefier (3) is of the type with controlled variable cooling power, that is, it is possible to change the temperature (Tl) of the liquid hydrogen produced and specifically produce liquid hydrogen that is supercooled relative to its saturation state, and the electronic control unit (10) is configured to control the temperature level of the liquid hydrogen produced in the storage container (4) according to the received request signal.

12. The facility as claimed in claim 8, characterized in that, The liquefier (3) is of the type with controlled variable cooling power, that is, it is possible to change the temperature (Tl) of the liquid hydrogen produced and specifically produce liquid hydrogen that is supercooled relative to its saturation state, and the electronic control unit (10) is configured to control the temperature level of the liquid hydrogen produced in the storage container (4) according to the received request signal.

13. The facility as claimed in claim 9, characterized in that, The liquid filling circuit (12) includes two extraction pipes (121, 122) connected at two different heights of the storage container to extract hydrogen from the storage container under different thermodynamic conditions.

14. The facility as claimed in claim 10, characterized in that, The liquid filling circuit (12) includes two extraction pipes (121, 122) connected at two different heights of the storage container to extract hydrogen from the storage container under different thermodynamic conditions.

15. The facility as claimed in claim 11, characterized in that, The liquid filling circuit (12) includes two extraction pipes (121, 122) connected at two different heights of the storage container to extract hydrogen from the storage container under different thermodynamic conditions.

16. The facility as claimed in claim 12, characterized in that, The liquid filling circuit (12) includes two extraction pipes (121, 122) connected at two different heights of the storage container to extract hydrogen from the storage container under different thermodynamic conditions.

17. The facility as claimed in claim 9, characterized in that, The facility includes two separate storage containers (4) filled at different liquid hydrogen temperatures, the first end of which is connected to these storage containers, the liquid filling circuit including one or a set of valves configured to allow filling of a tank (6) with a mixture of liquids from these storage containers (4) to obtain a predetermined liquid temperature.

18. The facility as claimed in claim 10, characterized in that, The facility includes two separate storage containers (4) filled at different liquid hydrogen temperatures, the first end of which is connected to these storage containers, the liquid filling circuit including one or a set of valves configured to allow filling of a tank (6) with a mixture of liquids from these storage containers (4) to obtain a predetermined liquid temperature.

19. The facility as claimed in claim 11, characterized in that, The facility includes two separate storage containers (4) filled at different liquid hydrogen temperatures, the first end of which is connected to these storage containers, the liquid filling circuit including one or a set of valves configured to allow filling of a tank (6) with a mixture of liquids from these storage containers (4) to obtain a predetermined liquid temperature.

20. The facility as claimed in claim 12, characterized in that, The facility includes two separate storage containers (4) filled at different liquid hydrogen temperatures, the first end of which is connected to these storage containers, the liquid filling circuit including one or a set of valves configured to allow filling of a tank (6) with a mixture of liquids from these storage containers (4) to obtain a predetermined liquid temperature.

21. The facility as claimed in claim 13, characterized in that, The facility includes two separate storage containers (4) filled at different liquid hydrogen temperatures, the first end of which is connected to these storage containers, the liquid filling circuit including one or a set of valves configured to allow filling of a tank (6) with a mixture of liquids from these storage containers (4) to obtain a predetermined liquid temperature.

22. The facility as claimed in claim 14, characterized in that, The facility includes two separate storage containers (4) filled at different liquid hydrogen temperatures, the first end of which is connected to these storage containers, the liquid filling circuit including one or a set of valves configured to allow filling of a tank (6) with a mixture of liquids from these storage containers (4) to obtain a predetermined liquid temperature.

23. The facility as claimed in claim 15, characterized in that, The facility includes two separate storage containers (4) filled at different liquid hydrogen temperatures, the first end of which is connected to these storage containers, the liquid filling circuit including one or a set of valves configured to allow filling of a tank (6) with a mixture of liquids from these storage containers (4) to obtain a predetermined liquid temperature.

24. The facility as claimed in claim 16, characterized in that, The facility includes two separate storage containers (4) filled at different liquid hydrogen temperatures, the first end of which is connected to these storage containers, the liquid filling circuit including one or a set of valves configured to allow filling of a tank (6) with a mixture of liquids from these storage containers (4) to obtain a predetermined liquid temperature.

25. A method for distributing liquefied hydrogen using a facility as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 24, the method comprising the steps of generating a signal (13) requesting filling of a mobile liquid tank (6), calculating a predetermined filling pressure level (Pr) based on the signal, and filling the tank (6) with liquid hydrogen at the predetermined filling pressure level (Pr).

26. The method as described in claim 25, characterized in that, During the step of filling the tank (6) with liquid hydrogen, the predetermined filling pressure level (Pr) is adjusted by controlling the opening of the pressure and / or flow rate regulating member (8).

27. The method as described in claim 26, characterized in that, The control of the opening of the pressure and / or flow rate regulating member (8) is carried out during and / or before and / or after the degassing operation of the tank (6) during the delivery of liquid hydrogen into the tank (6).

28. The method according to any one of claims 25 to 27, characterized in that, The step of generating a signal (13) to request filling of the mobile liquid tank (6) is performed manually and / or by telemetry, and the signal is transmitted to the facility (1).

29. The method according to any one of claims 25 to 27, characterized in that, The method includes the steps of calculating a predetermined temperature value (Tl) of the liquefied hydrogen produced in the storage container (4) based on the signal (13) before transferring the liquid hydrogen from the storage container (4) to the tank (6), and the steps of filling the storage container (4) with liquefied hydrogen at the predetermined temperature (Tl).

30. The method as described in claim 28, characterized in that, The method includes the steps of calculating a predetermined temperature value (Tl) of the liquefied hydrogen produced in the storage container (4) based on the signal (13) before transferring the liquid hydrogen from the storage container (4) to the tank (6), and the steps of filling the storage container (4) with liquefied hydrogen at the predetermined temperature (Tl).

31. The method according to any one of claims 25 to 27, characterized in that, The method includes the steps of filling two separate storage containers (4) with liquefied hydrogen at different temperatures (Tl1, Tl2) before transferring liquid hydrogen from the storage container (4) to the tank (6), the steps of calculating a predetermined liquefied hydrogen temperature value (Tl) based on the signal, and the steps of filling the tank (6) at the predetermined liquefied hydrogen temperature value (Tl) via a mixture of liquefied hydrogen from the storage containers (4).

32. The method as described in claim 28, characterized in that, The method includes the steps of filling two separate storage containers (4) with liquefied hydrogen at different temperatures (Tl1, Tl2) before transferring liquid hydrogen from the storage container (4) to the tank (6), the steps of calculating a predetermined liquefied hydrogen temperature value (Tl) based on the signal, and the steps of filling the tank (6) at the predetermined liquefied hydrogen temperature value (Tl) via a mixture of liquefied hydrogen from the storage containers (4).

33. The method as described in claim 29, characterized in that, The method includes the steps of filling two separate storage containers (4) with liquefied hydrogen at different temperatures (Tl1, Tl2) before transferring liquid hydrogen from the storage container (4) to the tank (6), the steps of calculating a predetermined liquefied hydrogen temperature value (Tl) based on the signal, and the steps of filling the tank (6) at the predetermined liquefied hydrogen temperature value (Tl) via a mixture of liquefied hydrogen from the storage containers (4).

34. The method as described in claim 30, characterized in that, The method includes the steps of filling two separate storage containers (4) with liquefied hydrogen at different temperatures (Tl1, Tl2) before transferring liquid hydrogen from the storage container (4) to the tank (6), the steps of calculating a predetermined liquefied hydrogen temperature value (Tl) based on the signal, and the steps of filling the tank (6) at the predetermined liquefied hydrogen temperature value (Tl) via a mixture of liquefied hydrogen from the storage containers (4).

Images