End pressure plate energy management device and alkaline water electrolytic bath hydrogen production system

Abstract

The invention discloses an end pressing plate energy management device and an alkaline water electrolysis bath hydrogen production system, and belongs to the field of water electrolysis hydrogen production. According to the technical scheme, the end pressing plate energy management device comprises separation equipment and further comprises a heat exchange channel arranged in an end pressing plate, the end pressing plate is connected with the separation equipment through an air outlet pipe, and the air outlet pipe is used for mixing and conveying high-temperature alkali liquor and hydrogen in an electrolytic bath into the separation equipment; the heat exchange channel is connected with the separation equipment through the end pressing plate liquid inlet pipe and the end pressing plate liquid return pipe, heat exchange can be conducted on the end pressing plate through the heat exchange channel in the end pressing plate, energy loss caused by heat dissipation of the end pressing plate is reduced, then energy consumption of a small chamber near the end pressing plate is reduced, energy recovery and reutilization are achieved, and the service life of the end pressing plate is prolonged. The problems that an end pressing plate of an existing water electrolysis hydrogen production system has the advantages of being large in area, good in heat conductivity and large in heat dissipating capacity, consequently, energy consumption of a small chamber near the end pressing plate of an electrolytic bath is high, and the load of the alkaline electrolytic bath and changes of the external environment cannot be matched are solved.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present application relates to the technical field of hydrogen production by water electrolysis, and in particular to an end-pressing-plate energy management device and an alkaline water electrolysis cell hydrogen production system. BACKGROUND

[0002] In the new energy system, hydrogen energy is an ideal secondary energy. Compared with other energies, hydrogen has a high heat value, and its combustion product is water, which is the most environmentally friendly energy. Hydrogen can be stored in high-pressure tanks in the form of gas or liquid, and can also be stored in the form of solid in hydrogen storage materials. The main methods of hydrogen production include coal-to-hydrogen, natural gas reforming-to-hydrogen, and water electrolysis-to-hydrogen.

[0003] At present, hydrogen produced by water electrolysis has no pollution and high purity. According to the different electrolytes, there are three technologies: alkaline water electrolysis (AWE), proton exchange membrane water electrolysis (PEM), and solid oxide water electrolysis (SOEC). The alkaline water electrolysis hydrogen production technology is the most mature, and has the characteristics of simple electrolytic cell structure and low cost. In the alkaline water electrolysis hydrogen production system, the high-temperature alkali solution from the alkaline electrolytic cell is first cooled by a gas-liquid separator, then cooled by an alkali cooler, and finally recycled back to the electrolytic cell. Or the high-temperature alkali solution from the alkaline electrolytic cell is first cooled by an alkali cooler, then enters a gas-liquid separator, and finally the alkali solution is recycled back to the electrolytic cell.

[0004] The energy management of the existing water electrolysis hydrogen production system is not perfect, resulting in high electrolytic cell and comprehensive energy consumption. Specifically, the end-pressing-plate of the existing water electrolysis hydrogen production system has the characteristics of large area, good thermal conductivity, and large heat dissipation, resulting in high energy consumption of the small chamber near the end-pressing-plate of the electrolytic cell, which cannot match the changes in the load of the alkaline electrolytic cell and the external environment. SUMMARY

[0005] To solve the technical problem in the above background art that the end-pressing-plate of the existing water electrolysis hydrogen production system has the characteristics of large area, good thermal conductivity, and large heat dissipation, resulting in high energy consumption of the small chamber near the end-pressing-plate of the electrolytic cell, which cannot match the changes in the load of the alkaline electrolytic cell and the external environment, the present application provides an end-pressing-plate energy management device.

[0006] The technical scheme of the present application is as follows: The application provides an end-pressing plate energy management device, which comprises a separation device and a heat exchange channel arranged in the end-pressing plate.

[0007] Preferably, the heat exchange channel is a spiral channel structure, which can increase the heat exchange area and heat exchange time, improve the heat exchange efficiency, further enhance the heat regulation capacity for the end-pressing plate, and more effectively reduce the heat dissipation of the end-pressing plate and the energy consumption of the nearby small chamber.

[0008] Preferably, the end-pressing plate liquid inlet pipe is sequentially connected with a pressure circulating pump, a steam-water separator and a pressure switch, the separation end of the steam-water separator is connected with the separation device through a gas return pipe, and the pressure circulating pump can ensure the stable circulation of the liquid in the end-pressing plate liquid inlet pipe.

[0009] Preferably, the steam-water separator is located between the separation device and the pressure circulating pump, which is conducive to separating the gas in the liquid delivered from the separation device before the liquid enters the pressure circulating pump, protecting the pressure circulating pump, avoiding damage to the pump by the gas, ensuring the normal operation of the circulating system, and further ensuring the continuous and stable operation of the end-pressing plate energy management device and reducing the energy consumption of the small chamber near the end-pressing plate.

[0010] Preferably, the end-pressing plate liquid inlet pipe and the end-pressing plate liquid return pipe are connected with the heat exchange channel and the separation device through sealing joints, which can effectively prevent liquid leakage, ensure the sealing of the entire energy management device, maintain the stability of the system pressure, ensure the normal heat exchange and liquid circulation, improve the energy management efficiency, reduce the energy loss caused by leakage, and thus reduce the energy consumption of the small chamber near the end-pressing plate.

[0011] Preferably, the end pressing plate is connected with the separation device through the alkali liquid inlet pipe, the high-temperature alkali liquid generated in the electrolytic cell flows into the separation device through the gas outlet pipe, and then flows into the heat exchange channel through the end pressing plate liquid inlet pipe to perform heat exchange work, so that the energy can be recycled and reused, and the low-temperature alkali liquid after heat exchange cooling flows back to the separation device through the end pressing plate liquid return pipe, and then flows back to the electrolytic cell through the alkali liquid inlet pipe, so that the alkali liquid can be recycled.

[0012] Preferably, temperature sensors are arranged on the end pressing plate liquid inlet pipe and the end pressing plate liquid return pipe, the temperature sensors can monitor the temperature of the inlet liquid and the return liquid in real time, the heat exchange condition in the heat exchange channel can be understood by the operator in time through the feedback temperature information, the system can be controlled, the running state of the energy management device can be ensured, and the energy consumption of the small chamber near the end pressing plate can be effectively reduced.

[0013] The alkali water electrolytic cell hydrogen production system comprises an electrolytic cell, one end pressing plate is fixedly arranged at each end of the electrolytic cell, and the end pressing plate of at least one end of the electrolytic cell is connected with an end pressing plate energy management device.

[0014] Preferably, the electrolytic cell is communicated with the separation device through the gas outlet pipe and the alkali liquid inlet pipe, so that the high-temperature alkali liquid and hydrogen generated in the electrolytic cell can be smoothly transported to the separation device, heat exchange and temperature rise of the end pressing plate are facilitated, meanwhile, the alkali liquid after heat exchange cooling in the separation device can also flow back to the electrolytic cell, the material circulation and energy exchange of the system are maintained, the energy consumption of the small chamber near the end pressing plate is reduced, and the overall performance of the system is improved.

[0015] Preferably, when the electrolytic cell does not reach the rated running temperature, the pressure switch is in a closed state; when the electrolytic cell reaches the rated running temperature, the pressure switch is in an open state, the pressure switch is controlled to be opened and closed according to the temperature state of the electrolytic cell, and the precise control of liquid circulation can be realized.

[0016] The advantages of the alkali water electrolytic cell hydrogen production system are as follows: 1. By pumping the high-temperature alkali liquor in the separation device into the heat exchange channel in the end pressure plate, the high-temperature alkali liquor in the heat exchange channel exchanges heat with the end pressure plate, effectively increasing the temperature of the end pressure plate, i.e. using the high-temperature alkali liquor in the separation device to compensate for the temperature of the end pressure plate, maximizing energy utilization in the electrolytic cell hydrogen production process, effectively increasing the temperature of the small chamber near the end pressure plate, and reducing the energy consumption of the small chamber near the end pressure plate; at the same time, after the end pressure plate shares part of the energy of the separation device, the heat load of the heat exchanger connected to the rear end of the separation device can be effectively reduced, the equipment cost is reduced, and at the same time the volume of the heat exchanger can be reduced, and the overall equipment space at the rear end can be optimized.

[0017] 2. The end pressure plate liquid inlet pipe is sequentially connected with a pressure circulating pump, a steam-water separator and a pressure switch, the separation end of the steam-water separator is connected with the separation device through a gas return pipe, and the pressure circulating pump can ensure stable circulation of the liquid in the end pressure plate liquid inlet pipe; the steam-water separator can effectively separate the gas in the liquid, prevent the gas from entering the pressure circulating pump and causing damage to the pressure circulating pump, and also prevent the gas from entering the heat exchange channel and affecting the heat exchange effect; the pressure switch can control the liquid circulation according to the system pressure condition, ensure stable operation of the system, comprehensively improve the operation stability and reliability of the energy management device, better meet the energy management needs under different working conditions, and help reduce the energy consumption of the small chamber near the end pressure plate and adapt to changes in the external environment.

[0018] 3. Temperature sensors are arranged on the end pressure plate liquid inlet pipe and the end pressure plate liquid return pipe, the temperature sensors can monitor the temperature of the inlet liquid and the return liquid in real time, through feedback of the temperature information, the heat exchange condition in the heat exchange channel can be understood by the operator in a timely manner, the system can be controlled, the operation state of the energy management device can be ensured, the energy consumption of the small chamber near the end pressure plate can be effectively reduced, and the external environment changes can be better matched. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0019] In order to more clearly illustrate the technical solutions of the present application, the following will briefly introduce the drawings needed to be used in the description, and obviously, the drawings in the following description are only some embodiments of the present application, and other drawings can be obtained by those skilled in the art without creating laborious work.

[0020] Figure 1 The figure is a schematic diagram of the overall structure of the alkaline water electrolysis cell hydrogen production system according to one or more embodiments of the present application. The components represented by the reference numerals in the figure are: 1, end pressure plate; 2, flange; 3, gas outlet pipe; 4, separation device; 5, lye inlet pipe; 6, end pressure plate liquid inlet pipe; 7, heat exchange channel; 8, end pressure plate liquid return pipe; 9, pressure circulation pump; 10, steam-water separator; 11, pressure switch; 12, sealing joint; 13, electrolytic cell; 14, gas return pipe; 15, temperature sensor; 16, heat exchanger.

[0021] Noun explanation: Electrolytic cell chamber is the basic unit of the electrolytic cell in the alkaline water electrolysis hydrogen production system. The electrolytic cell chamber is usually composed of anode, cathode, diaphragm and the like. Multiple electrolytic cell chambers are connected in series or parallel to form a complete electrolytic cell. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0022] In order to make the purpose, features and advantages of the present application more obvious and easy to understand, the technical solutions in the present application will be described clearly and completely below in combination with the drawings in the specific embodiments. Obviously, the embodiments described below are only a part of the embodiments of the present application, rather than all the embodiments. Based on the embodiments in the present patent, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative labor are within the scope of protection of the present patent.

[0023] Embodiment 1 In a typical embodiment of the present application, as shown in Figure 1 An end pressure plate energy management device is provided, comprising: a separation device 4 and a heat exchange channel 7 arranged in the end pressure plate 1. The end pressure plate 1 is connected to the separation device 4 through a gas outlet pipe 3. The gas outlet pipe 3 is used to penetrate the end pressure plate 1. The gas outlet pipe 3 is used to transport the high-temperature lye (about 90℃) and the generated hydrogen in the electrolytic cell 13 into the separation device 4, so as to separate the hydrogen from the high-temperature lye by using the separation device 4. The heat exchange channel 7 is arranged in the end pressure plate 1. The heat exchange channel 7 is connected to the separation device 4 through a circulation pipe. The high-temperature lye in the separation device 4 is transported into the heat exchange channel 7 through the circulation pipe, so as to exchange heat with the end pressure plate 1 by using the heat exchange channel 7, thereby improving the temperature of the end pressure plate 1 and reducing the energy loss of the end pressure plate 1 due to heat dissipation, and further improving the temperature near the small chamber of the electrolytic cell 13 and reducing the energy consumption of the small chamber near the end pressure plate 1. At the same time, by connecting with the separation device 4, the heat of the high-temperature lye and hydrogen generated in the electrolytic cell 13 can be effectively utilized to realize energy recovery and reuse, so that the system can better match the load of the alkaline electrolytic cell 13 and the changes of the external environment. The low-temperature lye (about 70℃) after heat exchange and cooling in the heat exchange channel 7 flows back to the separation device 4 through the circulation pipe.

[0024] Specifically, the flange 2 is fixedly installed on the end plate 1 and the separation device 4, the two ends of the gas outlet pipe 3 are connected with the end plate 1 and the separation device 4 through the flange 2 respectively, and the two-phase mixture of the high-temperature lye and hydrogen flows into the separation device 4 through the gas outlet pipe 3 for subsequent heat exchange work, and the separation device 4 is used for separation between the high-temperature lye and hydrogen.

[0025] The heat exchange channel 7 is arranged in the end plate 1, in this embodiment, the heat exchange channel 7 is a spiral channel structure cast in the end plate 1, which can also be understood as a serpentine channel structure, which can increase the heat exchange area and heat exchange time, so as to prolong the heat exchange time of the high-temperature lye in the end plate 1, improve the heat exchange efficiency and effect, further enhance the heat regulation ability of the end plate, more effectively reduce the heat dissipation of the end plate, and reduce the energy consumption of the nearby small chamber; the circulation pipeline includes an end plate liquid inlet pipe 6 and an end plate liquid return pipe 8, the liquid outlet of the separation device 4 is connected with the liquid inlet of the heat exchange channel 7 through the end plate liquid inlet pipe 6, and the liquid inlet of the separation device 4 is connected with the liquid outlet of the heat exchange channel 7 through the end plate liquid return pipe 8, the high-temperature lye in the separation device 4 flows into the heat exchange channel 7 through the end plate liquid inlet pipe 6 for heat exchange and cooling, and the low-temperature lye after cooling flows back to the separation device 4 through the end plate liquid return pipe 8.

[0026] As shown in Figure 1 The end plate liquid inlet pipe 6 is sequentially connected with a pressure circulation pump 9, a steam-water separator 10 and a pressure switch 11, wherein the steam-water separator 10 is located between the separation device 4 and the pressure circulation pump 9, that is, the steam-water separator 10 is located at the liquid inlet end of the pressure circulation pump 9, so as to separate the hydrogen carried by the lye flowing from the separation device 4 to the pressure circulation pump 9, avoid damage to the pressure circulation pump 9, and also prevent gas from entering the heat exchange channel 7 to affect the heat exchange effect, and the separation end of the steam-water separator 10 is also communicated with the inside of the separation device 4 through a gas return pipe 14, so as to re-deliver the separated hydrogen back to the separation device 4; the pressure circulation pump 9 is used to provide pressure for the lye flowing in the end plate liquid inlet pipe 6, the heat exchange channel 7 and the end plate liquid return pipe 8, so as to promote the circulation of the lye; the pressure switch 11 can control the liquid circulation according to the device pressure, ensure the stable operation of the device, comprehensively improve the operation stability and reliability of the energy management device, better meet the energy management needs under different working conditions, help to reduce the energy consumption of the small chamber near the end plate and adapt to the changes of the external environment.

[0027] In order to improve the sealing effect, the end plate liquid inlet pipe 6 and the end plate liquid return pipe 8 are connected with the heat exchange channel 7 and the separation device 4 through the sealing joint 12, and the separation device 4 and the gas return pipe 14 are also connected through the sealing joint 12, which can effectively prevent liquid leakage, ensure the sealing of the whole energy management device, maintain the stability of the system pressure, ensure the normal heat exchange and liquid circulation, improve the energy management efficiency, reduce the energy loss caused by leakage, and thus reduce the energy consumption of the small chamber near the end plate 1.

[0028] The temperature sensor 15 is arranged on the side of the sealing joint 12, and can monitor the temperature of the inlet liquid and the return liquid in real time. Through the feedback of the temperature information, the operator can know the heat exchange condition in the heat exchange channel 7 in time, so as to control the system. Specifically, according to the temperature monitoring data of the temperature sensor 15, the heat exchange capacity of the end press plate 1 is evaluated, and the flow of the circulating pressure pump 9 is adjusted, so as to control the temperature of the liquid in the pipeline, ensure the operation state of the energy management device, and effectively reduce the energy consumption of the small chamber near the end press plate 1, and better match the change of the external environment.

[0029] The high-temperature liquid in the separation device 4 is pumped into the heat exchange channel 7 in the end press plate 1, and the high-temperature liquid in the heat exchange channel 7 exchanges heat with the end press plate 1, so as to effectively improve the temperature of the end press plate 1 and reduce the energy consumption of the small chamber near the end press plate 1 of the electrolytic cell 13; the branch circulation of the separation device 4 is used to further separate the circulating liquid, so as to improve the separation efficiency and the hydrogen purity; the circulating pressure pump 9 is used in cooperation with the temperature sensor 15 arranged on the side of the inlet sealing joint 12 of the end press plate inlet pipe 6 and the end press plate return pipe 8, so as to realize the energy control of the end press plate 1 and better match the change of the load of the alkaline electrolytic cell and the external environment.

[0030] The end press plate 1 is further fixedly connected with the liquid inlet pipe 5 through the flange 2. The liquid inlet pipe 5 is used to be connected with the separation device 4. The low-temperature liquid in the separation device 4 can be conveyed to the electrolytic cell 13 through the liquid inlet pipe 5, so as to realize the circulating flow of the liquid. Specifically, the high-temperature liquid generated in the electrolytic cell 13 flows into the separation device 4 through the gas outlet pipe 3, and flows into the heat exchange channel 7 through the end press plate inlet pipe 6 to realize the heat exchange work, so as to realize the recovery and reuse of the energy. The low-temperature liquid after the heat exchange and cooling flows back to the separation device 4 through the end press plate return pipe 8, and flows back to the electrolytic cell 13 through the liquid inlet pipe 5, so as to realize the recycling of the liquid. The heat exchange and temperature rising of the end press plate 1 are facilitated, and the liquid after the heat exchange and cooling in the separation device 4 can also flow back to the electrolytic cell 13, so as to maintain the material circulation and energy exchange of the system, and help to reduce the energy consumption of the small chamber near the end press plate 1 and improve the overall performance of the system.

[0031] The heat exchanger 16 is further arranged between the separation device 4 and the alkali inlet pipe 5. Since the high-temperature alkali solution discharged from the electrolytic tank 13 is about 90°C, the temperature of the alkali solution flowing back to the separation device 4 from the heat exchange channel 7 after heat exchange with the corresponding end pressure plate 1 is not higher than 70°C, which meets the requirement and can be transported back to the electrolytic tank 13 through the alkali inlet pipe 5. However, when the temperature of the alkali solution after heat exchange in the heat exchange channel 7 does not meet the requirement, i.e. the temperature of the alkali solution after heat exchange is higher than 70°C, the heat exchanger 16 can be used to further reduce the temperature of the alkali solution flowing back to the electrolytic tank 13, so that the electrolytic reaction can be carried out at a more suitable temperature, the electrolytic efficiency is improved, the energy consumption is reduced, and thus the overall performance and economy of the hydrogen production system are improved. Controlling the temperature of the alkali solution in a suitable range can help to maintain the stability and reliability of the equipment, reduce the frequency of equipment maintenance and replacement, and reduce the operation cost.

[0032] In actual use, the high-temperature alkali solution in the separation device 4 can be used to compensate for the temperature of the end pressure plate 1, so as to maximize the energy utilization in the hydrogen production process of the electrolytic tank 13, effectively improve the temperature of the small chamber near the end pressure plate 1, and reduce the energy consumption of the electrolytic tank 13. At the same time, after part of the energy of the separation device 4 is shared by the end pressure plate 1, the heat load of the heat exchanger 16 at the rear end of the separation device 4 can be effectively reduced, the equipment cost is reduced, and at the same time, the volume of the heat exchanger 16 can be reduced, and the overall equipment space at the rear end is optimized.

[0033] The specific working principle is as follows: After the hydrogen gas is generated in the electrolytic tank 13, it is mixed with the alkali solution to form a high-temperature two-phase flow state, which flows into the separation device 4 through the gas outlet pipe 3. At the rear bottom side of the separation area of the separation device 4, a specified amount of alkali solution is made to flow into the end pressure plate liquid inlet pipe 6 by the pressure circulation pump 9. The end pressure plate liquid inlet pipe 6 is connected with the separation device 4 and the inlet of the heat exchange channel 7 through the sealing joints 12 at both ends of the end pressure plate liquid inlet pipe 6. The pressure switch 11, the steam-water separator 10, and the pressure circulation pump 9 are arranged on the end pressure plate liquid inlet pipe 6. When the electrolytic tank 13 is initially operated, the overall temperature of the electrolytic tank 13 is relatively low, and the state of the pressure switch 11 is closed, so that the overall temperature of the electrolytic tank 13 can be quickly raised. When the electrolytic tank 13 is operated at a rated value, the overall temperature of the electrolytic tank 13 is relatively high, and the state of the pressure switch 11 is opened, so that the high-temperature alkali solution flows into the heat exchange channel 7 in the end pressure plate 1. The steam-water separator 10 is used to separate the hydrogen gas carried in the alkali solution, so as to prevent the damage of the pressure circulation pump 9. The separated hydrogen gas returns to the separation device 4 through the gas return pipe 14. The pressure circulation pump 9 provides the pressure for the flow of the alkali solution in the end pressure plate liquid inlet pipe 6, the heat exchange channel 7, and the end pressure plate liquid return pipe 8, so as to make the alkali solution circulate. After the high-temperature alkali solution enters the heat exchange channel 7 in the end pressure plate 1, it is fully heat-exchanged with the end pressure plate 1 to raise the temperature of the end pressure plate 1, which is used to raise the temperature near the small chamber of the electrolytic tank 13, thereby reducing the energy consumption. The low-temperature alkali solution flowing out of the heat exchange channel 7 in the end pressure plate 1 flows back to the separation device 4 through the end pressure plate liquid return pipe 8, and completes a cycle.

[0034] Embodiment 2 In another typical embodiment of the present application, a hydrogen production system of an alkaline water electrolyzer is provided, comprising: the electrolyzer 13 and the end-plate energy management device mentioned in Embodiment 1, and one end-plate 1 is fixedly arranged at each end of the electrolyzer 13, and the end-plate 1 at at least one end of the electrolyzer 13 is connected with the end-plate energy management device. By connecting the energy management device on the end-plate 1 of the electrolyzer 13, the energy management of the end-plate 1 can be targeted, the adverse effects of heat dissipation of the end-plate 1 on the energy consumption of the nearby cells can be reduced, the energy utilization efficiency of the entire electrolyzer 13 can be improved, and the hydrogen production system of the alkaline water electrolyzer can better adapt to different loads and changes in external environment.

[0035] Specifically, when the end-plates 1 at both ends of the electrolyzer 13 are connected with the end-plate energy management device, the two ends of the heat exchange channel 7 in the two end-plates 1 are communicated with the same separation device 4, and the high-temperature alkali liquor flowing out of the separation device 4 flows into the heat exchange channel 7 through the circulation pipeline and flows in the heat exchange channel 7 to realize heat exchange with the end-plate 1. The end-plate 1 is communicated with the separation device 4 through the gas outlet pipe 3, and the hydrogen generated by the electrolyzer 13 is mixed with the alkali liquor to form a high-temperature two-phase flow state, which enters the separation device 4 through the gas outlet pipe 3. The two ends of the gas outlet pipe 3 are communicated with the end-plate 1 and the separation device 4 through the connecting flanges 2, respectively. A pressure circulation pump 9 is arranged on the communication pipeline between the heat exchange channel 7 and the separation device 4, which is used to provide the pressure for the circulation of the alkali liquor between the heat exchange channel 7 and the separation device 4. A pressure switch 11 is also arranged on the communication pipeline between the heat exchange channel 7 and the separation device 4. When the electrolyzer 13 is initially operated, the overall temperature of the electrolyzer 13 does not reach the rated operating temperature, at this time, it is at room temperature, about 25℃, and the generated hydrogen is less, and the state of the pressure switch 11 is closed. When the overall temperature of the electrolyzer 13 reaches the rated operating temperature, at this time, it is about 90℃, and a large amount of hydrogen is generated, the pressure rises, and the state of the pressure switch 11 is opened, which can realize precise regulation and control of liquid circulation. When the electrolyzer 13 does not reach the rated temperature, closing the pressure switch 11 can avoid unnecessary liquid circulation and reduce energy loss; when reaching the rated temperature, opening can make the energy management device start working to regulate the heat of the end-plate 1, effectively reduce the energy consumption of the cells near the end-plate 1, and improve the matching degree of the system to the load of the electrolyzer 13 and changes in external environment. A steam-water separator 10 is arranged between the separation device 4 and the pressure circulation pump 9, which is used to separate the hydrogen carried by the alkali liquor flowing from the separation device 4 to the pressure circulation pump 9.

[0036] The pressure circulation pump 9 is arranged on the end-pressing plate liquid inlet pipe 6; the pressure switch 11 is also arranged on the end-pressing plate liquid inlet pipe 6 and is located between the pressure circulation pump 9 and the separation device 4; the steam-water separator 10 is arranged on the end-pressing plate liquid inlet pipe 6 and is located between the pressure circulation pump 9 and the pressure switch 11; and the separation end of the steam-water separator 10 is connected to the separation device 4 through the gas return pipe 14.

[0037] In the embodiment, one set of energy management device can be used for the end-pressing plates 1 on both sides of the electrolytic cell 13 according to the structure of the electrolytic cell itself, and the control is more convenient. For example, the heat exchange channel 7 is arranged in the end-pressing plate 1 on one end of the electrolytic cell 13 of the alkaline water electrolysis cell hydrogen production system, and both ends of the heat exchange channel 7 are connected to the separation device 4, and the high-temperature alkali solution flowing out of the separation device 4 flows into the heat exchange channel 7 and flows in the heat exchange channel 7 to realize heat exchange with the end-pressing plate 1.

[0038] In another embodiment, two sets of energy management devices can be used, which are more operable and can realize more flexible temperature adjustment of the end-pressing plates 1. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, the heat exchange channels 7 are arranged in the two end-pressing plates 1, and the two heat exchange channels 7 are connected to the same separation device 4 to reduce the use amount of the separation device 4. Figure 1

[0039] In a specific embodiment, one end of the heat exchange channel 7 is connected to the separation device 4 through the end-pressing plate liquid inlet pipe 6, and the other end of the heat exchange channel 7 is connected to the separation device 4 through the end-pressing plate liquid return pipe 8. The heat exchange channel 7 is arranged as a spiral channel cast in the end-pressing plate 1, which enters from a connecting port at the bottom end of the end-pressing plate 1, spirally extends along the length direction of the end-pressing plate 1 in the end-pressing plate 1, and is connected to the end-pressing plate liquid return pipe 8 through another connecting port at the bottom end of the end-pressing plate 1.

[0040] In the embodiment, the end-pressing plate liquid inlet pipe 6 and the end-pressing plate liquid return pipe 8 are made of transparent polytetrafluoroethylene material or stainless steel material. The polytetrafluoroethylene material has low cost and is transparent, which is convenient for observing the color of the alkali solution and early warning of the falling of the electrolytic cell electrode, diaphragm and the like.

[0041] The aperture of the heat exchange channel 7 can be specifically set according to the actual situation, but cannot be too small to avoid blockage of foreign matters. For example, for a conventional 1000 standard square alkaline electrolytic cell 13, the aperture of the heat exchange channel 7 can be set to 10-15 mm.

[0042] ​In one embodiment, the end plate inlet pipe 6 and the end plate return pipe 8 are provided with sealing joints 12 at both ends, and are in communication with the heat exchange channel 7 and the separation device 4 through the sealing joints 12, respectively. Temperature sensors 15 are also provided on the end plate inlet pipe 6 and the end plate return pipe 8. Specifically, the temperature sensors 15 can be arranged on the back side of the sealing joints 12 at one end of the end plate inlet pipe 6 and the end plate return pipe 8 that communicates with the heat exchange channel 7. According to the temperature monitoring data of the temperature sensors 15, the flow rate of the circulating pressure pump 9 can be adjusted to control the temperature of the lye in the pipeline and evaluate the heat exchange capacity of the end plate 1.

[0043] The end plate 1 is fixedly connected with an alkali inlet pipe 5 through a flange 2. The alkali inlet pipe 5 is used to connect with the separation device 4. The low-temperature lye in the separation device 4 can be transported into the electrolytic cell 13 through the alkali inlet pipe 5 to realize the circulation of the lye. Specifically, the high-temperature lye generated in the electrolytic cell 13 flows into the separation device 4 through the gas outlet pipe 3 and then flows into the heat exchange channel 7 through the end plate inlet pipe 6 to perform heat exchange work, thereby realizing energy recovery and reuse. The low-temperature lye after heat exchange and cooling flows back to the separation device 4 through the end plate return pipe 8 and then flows back to the electrolytic cell 13 through the alkali inlet pipe 5 to realize the recycling of the lye. This is convenient for the heat exchange and temperature rise of the end plate 1, and at the same time, the lye after heat exchange and cooling in the separation device 4 can also return to the electrolytic cell 13, thereby maintaining the material circulation and energy exchange of the system, which helps to reduce the energy consumption of the small chamber near the end plate 1 and improve the overall performance of the system.

[0044] A heat exchanger 16 is further arranged between the separation device 4 and the alkali inlet pipe 5. Since the high-temperature lye discharged from the electrolytic cell 13 is about 90°C, the temperature of the lye flowing back to the separation device 4 from the heat exchange channel 7 after heat exchange with the corresponding end plate 1 is not higher than 70°C, which meets the requirements. Therefore, the lye can be transported back to the electrolytic cell 13 through the alkali inlet pipe 5. However, when the lye after heat exchange and cooling in the heat exchange channel 7 does not meet the requirements, i.e., the temperature of the lye after cooling is higher than 70°C, the heat exchanger 16 can be used to perform heat exchange on the lye to further reduce the temperature of the lye flowing back to the electrolytic cell 13, so that the electrolytic reaction can be carried out under more suitable temperature conditions, thereby improving the electrolytic efficiency and reducing the energy consumption. As a result, the overall performance and economy of the hydrogen production system are improved. Moreover, controlling the temperature of the lye within a suitable range helps to maintain the stability and reliability of the equipment, reduces the frequency of equipment maintenance and replacement, and reduces the operating cost.

[0045] In this embodiment, after the alkaline electrolytic cell generates hydrogen, it is mixed with the lye together in a high-temperature two-phase flow state, enters the separation device 4 through the gas outlet pipe 3, and at the back side of the separation area of the separation device 4, the specified amount of lye flows into the end plate liquid inlet pipe 6 through the pressure circulation pump 9. The end plate liquid inlet pipe 6 is connected with the separation device 4 and the heat exchange channel 7 inlet respectively by using the sealing joint 12 at both ends of the end plate liquid inlet pipe 6. The pressure switch 11, the steam-water separator 10 and the pressure circulation pump 9 are arranged on the end plate liquid inlet pipe 6. The pressure switch 11 functions as follows: when the electrolytic cell 13 is initially operated, the overall temperature of the electrolytic cell 13 is relatively low, and the state of the pressure switch 11 is closed, so that the overall temperature of the electrolytic cell 13 is quickly raised; when the electrolytic cell 13 is operated at the rated value, the overall temperature of the electrolytic cell 13 is relatively high, and at this time, the state of the pressure switch 11 is opened, and the high-temperature lye flows into the heat exchange channel 7 in the end plate 1. The steam-water separator 10 is used to separate the hydrogen carried in the lye, so as to prevent the damage of the pressure circulation pump 9. The separated hydrogen returns to the separation device 4 through the gas return pipe 14. The pressure circulation pump 9 provides the pressure in the flow process of the lye in the end plate liquid inlet pipe 6, the heat exchange channel 7 and the end plate liquid return pipe 8, so as to circulate the lye. Specifically, the circulation flow of the lye can be 5% to 10% of the flow of the electrolytic cell 13. After the high-temperature lye enters the heat exchange channel 7 in the end plate 1, it is fully heat-exchanged with the end plate 1, so as to raise the temperature of the end plate 1, and then raise the temperature near the small chamber of the electrolytic cell 13, thereby reducing the energy consumption. The low-temperature lye flowing out of the heat exchange channel 7 in the end plate 1 flows back to the separation device 4 through the end plate liquid return pipe 8, and completes a cycle.

[0046] The temperature sensor 15 is arranged on the end plate liquid inlet pipe 6 and the end plate liquid return pipe 8, and is close to the heat exchange channel 7, so as to ensure the accuracy of the temperature detection of the lye entering and leaving the heat exchange channel 7. Specifically, the temperature sensor 15 is arranged at the back side of the sealing joint 12 at one end of the heat exchange channel 7 communicated with the end plate liquid inlet pipe 6 and the end plate liquid return pipe 8. The temperature sensor 15 can monitor the temperature of the inlet liquid and the return liquid in real time. Through the feedback of the temperature information, the operator can timely understand the heat exchange condition in the heat exchange channel 7, so as to control the system. Specifically, according to the temperature monitoring data of the temperature sensor 15, the heat exchange amount of the end plate 1 is evaluated, and the flow of the circulation pressure pump 9 is adjusted, so as to control the temperature of the lye in the pipeline, ensure the operation state of the energy management device, and effectively reduce the energy consumption of the small chamber near the end plate 1, and better match the changes of the external environment.

[0047] The alkaline water electrolysis cell hydrogen production system in the embodiment is convenient to install and maintain, has strong operability and high reliability, realizes adjustment of the temperature of the end pressure plate 1, reduces the comprehensive energy consumption of the electrolysis cell 13 and the system thereof, specifically, the high-temperature alkali liquor in the separation device 4 is used to compensate the temperature of the end pressure plate 1, energy utilization in the hydrogen production process of the electrolysis cell 13 is maximized, the temperature of the small chamber near the end pressure plate 1 is effectively improved, and the energy consumption of the electrolysis cell 13 is reduced; meanwhile, after part of the energy of the separation device 4 is shared by the end pressure plate 1, the heat load of the heat exchanger 16 at the rear end of the separation device 4 can be effectively reduced, the equipment cost is reduced, meanwhile, the volume of the heat exchanger 16 can be reduced, and the overall equipment space at the rear end is optimized.

[0048] In the embodiment, the end pressure plate energy management device is adopted, the alkali liquor circulation in the separation device 4 is more sufficient, and the separation efficiency is improved, the device is convenient to install and maintain, can be used in various hydrogen production devices such as PEM and AEM, has wide applicability; for the alkaline electrolysis cell, whether it is a structure of “one positive and two negative” or “one positive and one negative”, this scheme can be adopted, has strong applicability. For the end pressure plates 1 on both sides, one set of the circulation device can be adopted according to the structure of the electrolysis cell 13, control is more convenient; two sets of the circulation device can also be adopted, operability is stronger, and more flexible adjustment of the temperature of the end pressure plate is realized. In addition, the adaptability of the hydrogen production system of the electrolysis cell 13 to the external environment can also be improved, when the electrolysis cell 13 runs in cold weather, the heat dissipation effect of the end pressure plate 1 is more prominent, the energy consumption of the electrolysis cell 13 is reduced more, after the end pressure plate energy management device is adopted, the temperature of the end pressure plate 1 can be maintained at a good temperature level by adjusting the flow of the circulation pressure pump 9.

[0049] The above description of disclosed embodiments enables one of ordinary skill in the art to make or use the application. Various modifications to these embodiments will be readily apparent to those skilled in the art, and the generic principles defined herein can be applied to other embodiments without departing from the spirit or scope of the application. Thus, the present application is not intended to be limited to the embodiments shown herein but is to be accorded the widest scope consistent with the principles and novel features disclosed herein.

Claims

1. An end plate energy management device, comprising: The separation device (4) is characterized in that it also includes a heat exchange channel (7) arranged in the end pressure plate (1), the end pressure plate (1) is connected to the separation device (4) through the outlet pipe (3), the outlet pipe (3) is used to transport the high-temperature alkali liquid and hydrogen mixture in the electrolytic cell (13) to the separation device (4), and the heat exchange channel (7) is connected to the separation device (4) through the end pressure plate liquid inlet pipe (6) and the end pressure plate liquid return pipe (8).

2. The end plate energy management device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The heat exchange channel (7) is a spiral channel structure.

3. The end plate energy management device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The end pressure plate liquid inlet pipe (6) is connected in sequence to a pressure circulation pump (9), a steam-water separator (10) and a pressure switch (11), and the separation end of the steam-water separator (10) is connected to the separation device (4) through a return air pipe (14).

4. The end plate energy management device according to claim 3, characterized in that: The steam-water separator (10) is located between the separation device (4) and the pressure circulation pump (9).

5. The end plate energy management device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The end pressure plate liquid inlet pipe (6), the end pressure plate liquid return pipe (8), the heat exchange channel (7), and the separation device (4) are all connected via a sealing joint (12).

6. The end plate energy management device according to claim 1, characterized in that: The end pressure plate (1) is connected to the separation device (4) through the alkali liquid inlet pipe (5).

7. The end plate energy management device according to claim 1, characterized in that: Temperature sensors (15) are provided on the end pressure plate liquid inlet pipe (6) and the end pressure plate liquid return pipe (8).

8. An alkaline water electrolyzer hydrogen production system, characterized in that: include: An electrolytic cell (13), wherein an end pressure plate (1) is fixedly provided at each end of the electrolytic cell (13), and the end pressure plate (1) at at least one end of the electrolytic cell (13) is connected to an end pressure plate energy management device as described in any one of claims 1 to 7.

9. The alkaline water electrolyzer hydrogen production system according to claim 8, characterized in that: The electrolytic cell (13) is connected to the separation device (4) through the gas outlet pipe (3) and the alkali liquid inlet pipe (5).

10. The alkaline water electrolyzer hydrogen production system according to claim 8, characterized in that: When the electrolytic cell (13) does not reach the rated operating temperature, the pressure switch (11) is in a closed state; when the electrolytic cell (13) reaches the rated operating temperature, the pressure switch (11) is in an open state.

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