Electrolyte cooling device and electrolyte cooling method of electrolytic hydrogen production system
By replacing heat exchange tubes with flash tanks in the electrolytic hydrogen production system and utilizing the flash cooling principle, the problem of poor electrolyte cooling effect was solved, and efficient electrolyte cooling was achieved.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-12-26
- Publication Date
- 2026-03-27
AI Technical Summary
In existing water electrolysis hydrogen production equipment, the integrated device for gas-alkali separation and electrolyte cooling suffers from heat loss, which affects the electrolyte cooling effect.
A flash tank is used instead of traditional heat exchange tubes. Through the principle of flash cooling, the high-temperature electrolyte boils in the flash tank, and water vapor is flashed out to carry away the heat, thereby achieving rapid cooling of the electrolyte.
It reduces heat loss during the heat exchange process and significantly improves the electrolyte cooling efficiency.
Smart Images
Figure CN121739702A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This application relates to the field of electrolytic hydrogen production technology, specifically to an electrolyte cooling device and electrolyte cooling method for an electrolytic hydrogen production system. Background Technology
[0002] The related technology is an integrated device for gas-alkali separation and electrolyte cooling in water electrolysis hydrogen production equipment. It includes a gas-liquid separation chamber with a gas-liquid inlet, a gas outlet, and an electrolyte outlet. Heat exchange tubes are installed inside the gas-liquid separation chamber. The gas-liquid mixture enters the gas-liquid separation chamber through the gas-liquid inlet and exchanges heat with the cooling water in the heat exchange tubes. The gas and electrolyte are separated under the action of baffles. The separated gas is discharged through the gas outlet, and the cooled electrolyte flows back to the electrolytic cell from the electrolyte outlet.
[0003] However, the integrated devices for related technologies require cooling the electrolyte through heat exchange tubes, which results in heat loss and affects the cooling effect. Therefore, providing an electrolyte cooling device and method for an electrolytic hydrogen production system to improve the cooling effect has become a technical problem that urgently needs to be solved by those skilled in the art. Summary of the Invention
[0004] The purpose of this application is to provide an electrolyte cooling device and method for an electrolytic hydrogen production system, thereby improving the electrolyte cooling effect. The specific solution is as follows:
[0005] An electrolyte cooling device for an electrolytic hydrogen production system, comprising:
[0006] A flash tank, wherein a liquid level sensor is installed inside the flash tank;
[0007] An electrolyte inlet line is connected to the flash tank. A first one-way valve is provided on the electrolyte inlet line. The first one-way valve is configured to allow the electrolyte to flow unidirectionally from the electrolyte inlet line to the flash tank.
[0008] A steam output pipeline is connected to the upper end of the flash tank in the direction of gravity. A first valve is provided on the steam output pipeline, and the first valve is configured to connect or disconnect the steam output pipeline.
[0009] A process gas input line is connected to the flash tank, and a second valve is provided on the process gas input line. The second valve is configured to connect or disconnect the process gas input line.
[0010] An electrolyte output pipeline is connected to the lower end of the flash tank in the direction of gravity. A second one-way valve and a pressure pump are provided on the electrolyte output pipeline. The second one-way valve is configured to allow the electrolyte to flow unidirectionally from the flash tank to the electrolyte output pipeline.
[0011] Optionally, the electrolyte cooling device further includes:
[0012] A pressure sensor is installed inside the flash tank, located at the upper end of the liquid level sensor in the direction of gravity.
[0013] Optionally, the electrolyte cooling device further includes:
[0014] A temperature sensor is installed inside the flash tank, located at the lower end of the liquid level sensor in the direction of gravity.
[0015] Optionally, the wall of the flash tank is provided with a first connection port that connects to the electrolyte input pipeline, and the first connection port is located at the upper end of the liquid level sensor in the direction of gravity.
[0016] Optionally, the wall of the flash tank is provided with a first connection port that connects to the electrolyte input pipeline, and the height of the first connection port is not higher than 2 / 3 of the height of the flash tank.
[0017] Optionally, the electrolyte cooling device further includes:
[0018] A vapor filter is disposed inside the flash tank, which divides the interior of the flash tank into a first chamber located at the upper end in the direction of gravity and a second chamber located at the lower end in the direction of gravity. The vapor output pipeline is connected to the first chamber, the liquid level sensor and the pressure sensor are located in the second chamber, and the electrolyte input pipeline, the process gas input pipeline, the electrolyte output pipeline and the second chamber are connected.
[0019] Optionally, the electrolyte cooling device further includes an electrolyte diversion valve and an electrolyte return pipeline. The electrolyte diversion valve has a first outlet and a second outlet. The electrolyte return pipeline is connected to the first outlet, and the electrolyte input pipeline is connected to the second outlet. The electrolyte diversion valve is configured to deliver electrolyte to the electrolyte return pipeline and the electrolyte input pipeline in a target ratio.
[0020] A method for cooling the electrolyte in an electrolytic hydrogen production system, comprising:
[0021] The first valve and the first check valve are closed, the second valve and the second check valve are opened, the pressurization pump is started, and the process gas with a first preset pressure is controlled to enter the interior of the flash tank so as to return the electrolytic liquid inside the flash tank to the electrolytic cell.
[0022] The second valve and the second check valve are closed, and the opening and closing of the first valve are controlled to maintain the internal pressure of the flash tank at the first preset pressure. The first check valve is opened, and the electrolyte enters the flash tank through the electrolyte input pipeline under the action of pressure difference and boils, flashing out water vapor. The water vapor is discharged through the first valve, and the remaining low-temperature electrolyte accumulates inside the flash tank.
[0023] When the liquid level sensor detects that the liquid level inside the flash tank has reached the rated value, the first valve and the first check valve are closed, the second valve and the second check valve are opened, the pressurization pump is started, and the process gas is controlled to enter the interior of the flash tank to return the electrolytic liquid inside the flash tank to the electrolytic cell.
[0024] Optionally, the first preset pressure is set to be lower than the saturated vapor pressure of the electrolyte in the electrolytic cell and higher than atmospheric pressure.
[0025] A method for cooling the electrolyte in an electrolytic hydrogen production system, comprising:
[0026] The first valve and the first check valve are closed, the second valve and the second check valve are opened, the pressurization pump is started, and the process gas with a second preset pressure is controlled to enter the interior of the flash tank so as to return the electrolytic liquid inside the flash tank to the electrolytic cell.
[0027] The second valve and the second check valve are closed, and the first check valve is opened, allowing the electrolyte to enter and accumulate inside the flash tank;
[0028] When the liquid level sensor detects that the liquid level inside the flash tank has reached the rated value, the first one-way valve is controlled to close. The opening and closing of the first valve is controlled to maintain the pressure inside the flash tank at the third preset pressure. The electrolyte inside the flash tank boils and flashes out water vapor, which is discharged through the first valve.
[0029] When the temperature sensor detects that the electrolyte temperature is lower than the boiling point under the third preset pressure, the first valve is closed, the second valve and the second check valve are opened, the pressurization pump is started, and the process gas is controlled to enter the interior of the flash tank to pump the electrolyte liquid back to the electrolytic cell.
[0030] Optionally, the second preset pressure is set to be higher than the saturated vapor pressure of the electrolyte in the electrolytic cell and lower than the operating pressure of the electrolytic cell.
[0031] Optionally, the third preset pressure is set to be lower than the saturated vapor pressure of the electrolyte in the electrolytic cell and higher than atmospheric pressure.
[0032] The technical effects of this application are as follows:
[0033] The electrolyte cooling device of this application adopts the principle of flash evaporation cooling instead of the traditional heat exchange tube cooling method, so that the high temperature electrolyte boils in the flash tank and flashes out water vapor. The water vapor is discharged and efficiently removes a large amount of heat, thereby achieving a rapid reduction in electrolyte temperature. Compared with the indirect heat exchange of traditional heat exchange tubes, it reduces heat loss during the heat exchange process and greatly improves cooling efficiency. Attached Figure Description
[0034] Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure of an electrolyte cooling device for a specific embodiment of the electrolytic hydrogen production system provided in this application;
[0035] Figure 2 A flowchart of a first specific embodiment of the electrolyte cooling method for the electrolytic hydrogen production system provided in this application;
[0036] Figure 3 A flowchart of a second specific embodiment of the electrolyte cooling method for the electrolytic hydrogen production system provided in this application;
[0037] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:
[0038] Flash tank 100; first chamber 100-1; second chamber 100-2; level sensor 101; pressure sensor 102; electrolyte inlet line 103; first check valve 104; steam outlet line 105; first valve 106; process gas inlet line 107; second valve 108; electrolyte outlet line 109; second check valve 110; pressurizing pump 111; temperature sensor 112; first connection port 113; second connection port 114; steam filter 115; electrolyte diversion valve 116; first outlet 1161; second outlet 1162; electrolyte return line 117. Detailed Implementation
[0039] The technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some embodiments of this application, not all embodiments. Based on the embodiments of this application, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.
[0040] The terms "first," "second," etc., used in the specification and claims of this application are used to distinguish similar objects and not to describe a specific order or sequence. It should be understood that such use of data can be interchanged where appropriate so that embodiments of this application can be implemented in orders other than those illustrated or described herein, and the objects distinguished by "first," "second," etc., are generally of the same class and the number of objects is not limited; for example, a first object can be one or more. Furthermore, in the specification and claims, "and / or" indicates at least one of the connected objects, and the character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following objects are in an "or" relationship.
[0041] It should be understood that the phrase "some embodiments" throughout the specification means that a specific feature, structure, or characteristic related to an embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of this application. Therefore, "some embodiments" appearing throughout the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Furthermore, these specific features, structures, or characteristics can be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments.
[0042] In this description, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "connected," "linked," and "fixed" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection or an electrical connection; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components. Those skilled in the art will understand the specific meaning of these terms in this document based on the specific circumstances.
[0043] Please refer to Figure 1 and Figure 2 , Figure 1 A schematic diagram of the structure of an electrolyte cooling device for a specific embodiment of the electrolytic hydrogen production system provided in this application; Figure 2 This is a flowchart of a first specific embodiment of the electrolyte cooling method for the electrolytic hydrogen production system provided in this application.
[0044] This application provides an electrolyte cooling device for an electrolytic hydrogen production system, comprising:
[0045] Flash tank 100, with a liquid level sensor 101 installed inside;
[0046] An electrolyte inlet pipe 103 is connected to a flash tank 100. A first check valve 104 is provided on the electrolyte inlet pipe 103. The first check valve 104 is configured to allow the electrolyte to flow unidirectionally from the electrolyte inlet pipe 103 to the flash tank 100.
[0047] A steam output pipeline 105 is connected to the upper end of the flash tank 100 in the direction of gravity. A first valve 106 is provided on the steam output pipeline 105. The first valve 106 is configured to connect or disconnect the steam output pipeline 105.
[0048] The process gas input line 107 is connected to the flash tank 100. A second valve 108 is provided on the process gas input line 107. The second valve 108 is configured to connect or disconnect the process gas input line 107.
[0049] The electrolyte output pipeline 109 is connected to the lower end of the flash tank 100 in the direction of gravity. The electrolyte output pipeline 109 is equipped with a second one-way valve 110 and a pressure pump 111. The second one-way valve 110 is configured to allow the electrolyte to flow unidirectionally from the flash tank 100 to the electrolyte output pipeline 109.
[0050] In the electrolyte cooling device of this application embodiment, the end of the electrolyte inlet pipe 103 away from the flash tank 100 is connected to the electrolyte outlet of the electrolytic cell; the end of the process gas inlet pipe 107 away from the flash tank 100 is connected to the working gas source, which is used to generate process gases, such as hydrogen or air; the end of the electrolyte outlet pipe 109 away from the flash tank 100 is connected to the electrolyte inlet of the electrolytic cell; the first one-way valve 104 and the second one-way valve 110 ensure that the electrolyte can only flow in one direction: it enters the flash tank 100 through the electrolyte inlet pipe 103 and is discharged through the electrolyte outlet pipe 109; the liquid level sensor 101 is used to monitor the liquid level inside the flash tank 100 in real time.
[0051] In some embodiments of this application, when the electrolytic cell is operating under exothermic conditions and requires cooling, the first valve 106 and the first check valve 104 can be closed, the second valve 108 and the second check valve 110 can be opened, the pressurizing pump 111 can be started, and the working gas source generates process gas with a first preset pressure. The first preset pressure is set to be lower than the saturated vapor pressure of the electrolyte in the electrolytic cell and higher than the atmospheric pressure. After the process gas enters the interior of the flash tank 100, if there is electrolyte remaining inside the flash tank 100, the electrolyte inside the flash tank 100 will be pressed to the electrolyte output pipeline 109, pressurized by the pressurizing pump 111 to slightly higher than the operating pressure of the electrolytic cell, and then returned to the electrolytic cell through the second check valve 110, thereby emptying the interior of the flash tank 100.
[0052] The second valve 108 and the second check valve 110 are closed, and the opening and closing of the first valve 106 are controlled to maintain the internal pressure of the flash tank 100 at the first preset pressure. The first check valve 104 is opened, and the electrolyte enters the flash tank 100 through the electrolyte inlet pipe 103 under the action of pressure difference. Since the internal pressure of the flash tank 100 is lower than the saturated vapor pressure of the electrolyte, the electrolyte boils as it enters the flash tank 100, and water vapor is flashed out. The water vapor is discharged through the first valve 106. The temperature of the electrolyte decreases after flashing and accumulates inside the flash tank 100.
[0053] When the liquid level sensor 101 detects that the liquid level inside the flash tank 100 has reached the rated value, the first valve 106 and the first check valve 104 are closed, the second valve 108 and the second check valve 110 are opened, the pressurization pump 111 is started, and the process gas is controlled to enter the interior of the flash tank 100 to pump the low-temperature electrolyte liquid inside the flash tank 100 back to the electrolytic cell, thereby completing the electrolyte cooling and circulation.
[0054] Therefore, the electrolyte cooling device in this application adopts the flash evaporation cooling principle instead of the traditional heat exchange tube cooling method, so that the high temperature electrolyte boils and flashes rapidly under a pressure environment lower than its saturated vapor pressure. The water vapor is discharged to efficiently remove a large amount of heat, thereby achieving a rapid reduction in electrolyte temperature. Compared with the indirect heat exchange of traditional heat exchange tubes, it reduces heat loss during the heat exchange process and greatly improves cooling efficiency.
[0055] Specifically, controlling the opening and closing of the first valve 106 maintains the internal pressure of the flash tank 100 at a first preset pressure, namely:
[0056] In some embodiments, the first valve 106 can be a back pressure valve. By setting the opening pressure of the first valve 106 to a first preset pressure, the first valve 106 can automatically open when the internal pressure of the flash tank 100 is higher than the first preset pressure, thereby maintaining the internal pressure of the flash tank 100 at the first preset pressure.
[0057] In some other embodiments, the electrolyte cooling device also includes a pressure sensor 102 and a controller (microcomputer or single-chip microcomputer). The pressure sensor 102 is located inside the flash tank 100 and is used to detect the internal pressure of the flash tank 100. The pressure sensor 102 is located at the upper end of the liquid level sensor 101 in the direction of gravity. The pressure sensor 102 and the first valve 106 are both electrically connected to the controller.
[0058] Thus, the controller can receive the detection result of the pressure sensor 102 and, based on the detection result of the pressure sensor 102, control the opening and closing of the first valve 106 to maintain the internal pressure of the flash tank 100 at the first preset pressure. Therefore, when the pressure sensor 102 detects that the internal pressure of the flash tank 100 is higher than the first preset pressure, the controller controls the first valve 106 to open; when the pressure sensor 102 detects that the internal pressure of the flash tank 100 is at the first preset pressure, the controller controls the first valve 106 to close.
[0059] Please refer to Figure 1 and Figure 3 , Figure 3 This is a flowchart of a second specific embodiment of the electrolyte cooling method for the electrolytic hydrogen production system provided in this application.
[0060] In this embodiment of the application, the electrolyte cooling device further includes:
[0061] Temperature sensor 112 is installed inside flash tank 100, and is located at the lower end of liquid level sensor 101 in the direction of gravity.
[0062] As set above, the electrolyte cooling device is equipped with a temperature sensor 112 to detect the real-time temperature of the electrolyte inside the flash tank 100. In some other embodiments of this application, when the electrolytic cell is operating under exothermic conditions and needs to be cooled down, the first valve 106 and the first check valve 104 can be closed, the second valve 108 and the second check valve 110 can be opened, the pressurizing pump 111 can be started, and the working gas source generates process gas with a second preset pressure. The second preset pressure is set to be higher than the saturated vapor pressure of the electrolyte in the electrolytic cell and lower than the operating pressure of the electrolytic cell. After the process gas enters the interior of the flash tank 100, if there is electrolyte remaining inside the flash tank 100, the electrolyte inside the flash tank 100 will be pressed to the electrolyte output pipeline 109, pressurized by the pressurizing pump 111 to slightly higher than the operating pressure of the electrolytic cell, and then returned to the electrolytic cell through the second check valve 110, thereby emptying the interior of the flash tank 100.
[0063] The second valve 108 and the second check valve 110 are closed, and the first check valve 104 is opened. The electrolyte enters the flash tank 100 under the action of pressure difference. Since the pressure inside the flash tank 100 is higher than the saturated vapor pressure of the electrolyte, the electrolyte accumulates inside the flash tank 100.
[0064] When the liquid level sensor 101 detects that the liquid level inside the flash tank 100 has reached the rated value, the first one-way valve 104 is closed, and the opening and closing of the first valve 106 is controlled to maintain the internal pressure of the flash tank 100 at the third preset pressure. The third preset pressure is set to be lower than the saturated vapor pressure of the electrolyte in the electrolytic cell and higher than the atmospheric pressure. At this time, the electrolyte inside the flash tank 100 boils and flashes out water vapor. The water vapor is discharged through the first valve 106, and the temperature of the electrolyte decreases after flashing.
[0065] When the temperature sensor 112 detects that the electrolyte temperature is lower than the boiling point under the third preset pressure, the first valve 106 is closed, the second valve 108 and the second check valve 110 are opened, the pressurization pump 111 is started, and the process gas is controlled to enter the interior of the flash tank 100 so as to pump the low-temperature electrolyte liquid inside the flash tank 100 back to the electrolytic cell.
[0066] Therefore, the embodiments of this application provide two operating modes of the electrolyte cooling device. In the first operating mode, the electrolyte is first flashed and then accumulated; in the second operating mode, the electrolyte is first accumulated and then flashed. Either operating mode can be selected to complete the electrolyte cooling and circulation.
[0067] Please continue to refer to this. Figure 1 In this embodiment of the application, the wall of the flash tank 100 is provided with a first connection port 113 that connects to the electrolyte input pipeline 103. The first connection port 113 is located at the upper end of the liquid level sensor 101 in the direction of gravity.
[0068] As set above, the first connection port 113 is located at the upper end of the gravity direction of the liquid level sensor 101, so that the low-temperature electrolyte accumulated inside the flash tank 100 is always lower than the first connection port 113, thus preventing the electrolyte entering the flash tank 100 through the electrolyte input pipe 103 in the first operating mode from directly entering the low-temperature electrolyte after flash cooling in the lower part, which would weaken the flash effect.
[0069] Please continue to refer to this. Figure 1 In this embodiment of the application, the wall of the flash tank 100 is provided with a first connection port 113 that connects to the electrolyte input pipeline 103, and the height of the first connection port 113 is not higher than 2 / 3 of the height of the flash tank 100.
[0070] As set above, the height of the second connection port 114 is no higher than 2 / 3 of the height of the flash tank 100, so as to avoid a large amount of electrolyte entering the steam output pipeline 105 due to the boiling during the flash process in the second operating mode, reduce the loss of electrolyte with water vapor, and improve the electrolyte recovery efficiency.
[0071] Please continue to refer to this. Figure 1 In this embodiment of the application, the electrolyte cooling device further includes:
[0072] A vapor filter 115 is installed inside the flash tank 100. The vapor filter 115 divides the interior of the flash tank 100 into a first chamber 100-1 located at the upper end in the direction of gravity and a second chamber 100-2 located at the lower end in the direction of gravity. The vapor output pipeline 105 is connected to the first chamber 100-1. The liquid level sensor 101 and the pressure sensor 102 are located in the second chamber 100-2. The electrolyte input pipeline 103, the process gas input pipeline 107, the electrolyte output pipeline 109 are connected to the second chamber 100-2.
[0073] As set up above, in the second operating mode, water vapor escapes from the liquid surface and flows through the steam filter 115. The steam filter 115 can efficiently intercept most of the electrolyte droplets carried in the water vapor. The intercepted electrolyte droplets will flow back to the electrolyte in the second chamber 100-2 under the action of gravity, and finally be returned to the electrolytic cell, further reducing the loss of electrolyte with water vapor and further improving the electrolyte recovery efficiency.
[0074] Please continue to refer to this. Figure 1 In this embodiment of the application, the electrolyte cooling device further includes an electrolyte diversion valve 116 and an electrolyte return pipeline 117. The electrolyte diversion valve 116 has a first outlet 1161 and a second outlet 1162. The electrolyte return pipeline 117 is connected to the first outlet 1161, and the electrolyte input pipeline 103 is connected to the second outlet 1162. The electrolyte diversion valve 116 is configured to deliver electrolyte to the electrolyte return pipeline 117 and the electrolyte input pipeline 103 according to a target ratio.
[0075] As configured above, in this embodiment, the electrolyte diversion valve 116 is connected to the electrolyte return pipeline 117 through the first outlet 1161 and to the electrolyte input pipeline 103 through the second outlet 1162. It can flexibly adjust the ratio of electrolyte entering the flash tank 100 to electrolyte directly returning to the electrolytic cell according to the electrolyte temperature in the electrolytic cell. For example, when the electrolyte temperature in the electrolytic cell is lower than the cooling threshold, the proportion of electrolyte diverted to the flash tank 100 can be reduced, allowing most of the electrolyte to return directly through the electrolyte return pipeline 117, thus avoiding excessive cooling of the electrolyte. When the electrolyte temperature in the electrolytic cell is higher than the cooling threshold, the proportion of electrolyte diverted to the flash tank 100 can be increased, allowing most of the high-temperature electrolyte to enter the flash tank 100 for cooling, thereby stabilizing the electrolyte temperature in the electrolytic cell within a safe operating range.
[0076] This application embodiment also provides an electrolyte cooling method for an electrolytic hydrogen production system, based on the aforementioned electrolyte cooling device for an electrolytic hydrogen production system, comprising:
[0077] The first valve 106 and the first check valve 104 are closed, the second valve 108 and the second check valve 110 are opened, the pressurizing pump 111 is started, and the process gas with the first preset pressure is controlled to enter the interior of the flash tank 100 so as to return the electrolytic liquid inside the flash tank 100 to the electrolytic cell.
[0078] The second valve 108 and the second check valve 110 are closed, and the opening and closing of the first valve 106 are controlled to maintain the internal pressure of the flash tank 100 at the first preset pressure. The first check valve 104 is opened, and the electrolyte enters the flash tank 100 through the electrolyte input pipeline 103 under the action of pressure difference and boils, flashing out water vapor. The water vapor is discharged through the first valve 106, and the remaining low-temperature electrolyte accumulates inside the flash tank 100.
[0079] When the liquid level sensor 101 detects that the liquid level inside the flash tank 100 has reached the rated value, the first valve 106 and the first check valve 104 are closed, the second valve 108 and the second check valve 110 are opened, the pressurization pump 111 is started, and the process gas is controlled to enter the interior of the flash tank 100 to return the electrolytic liquid inside the flash tank 100 to the electrolytic cell.
[0080] The electrolyte cooling method of the electrolytic hydrogen production system in this application embodiment is based on the aforementioned electrolyte cooling device for the electrolytic hydrogen production system, and therefore has the same technical effect as the aforementioned electrolyte cooling device for the electrolytic hydrogen production system, which will not be repeated here.
[0081] The electrolyte cooling method of the electrolytic hydrogen production system in this application embodiment first drains any residual electrolyte inside the flash tank 100 and establishes a pressure environment lower than the saturated vapor pressure of the electrolyte inside the flash tank 100. This causes the electrolyte to boil as it enters the flash tank 100, flashing out water vapor. The low-temperature electrolyte accumulates inside the flash tank 100. When the low-temperature electrolyte accumulates to the rated level, it is pumped back to the electrolytic cell, completing the cooling and circulation of the electrolyte.
[0082] The first preset pressure is set to be lower than the saturated vapor pressure of the electrolyte in the electrolytic cell but higher than atmospheric pressure. This causes the electrolyte to boil as it enters the flash tank 100, flashing out water vapor and allowing the low-temperature electrolyte to accumulate inside the flash tank 100.
[0083] This application embodiment also provides an electrolyte cooling method for an electrolytic hydrogen production system, based on the aforementioned electrolyte cooling device for an electrolytic hydrogen production system, comprising:
[0084] The first valve 106 and the first check valve 104 are closed, the second valve 108 and the second check valve 110 are opened, the pressurizing pump 111 is started, and the process gas with the second preset pressure is controlled to enter the interior of the flash tank 100 so as to return the electrolytic liquid inside the flash tank 100 to the electrolytic cell.
[0085] The second valve 108 and the second check valve 110 are closed, and the first check valve 104 is opened, allowing the electrolyte to enter and accumulate inside the flash tank 100.
[0086] When the liquid level sensor 101 detects that the liquid level inside the flash tank 100 has reached the rated value, the first one-way valve 104 is closed and the opening and closing of the first valve 106 is controlled to maintain the internal pressure of the flash tank 100 at the third preset pressure. The electrolyte inside the flash tank 100 boils and flashes out water vapor, which is discharged through the first valve 106.
[0087] When the temperature sensor 112 detects that the electrolyte temperature is lower than the boiling point under the third preset pressure, the first valve 106 is closed, the second valve 108 and the second check valve 110 are opened, the pressurization pump 111 is started, and the process gas is controlled to enter the interior of the flash tank 100 so as to pump the electrolyte liquid inside the flash tank 100 back to the electrolytic cell.
[0088] The electrolyte cooling method of the electrolytic hydrogen production system in this application embodiment is based on the aforementioned electrolyte cooling device for the electrolytic hydrogen production system, and therefore has the same technical effect as the aforementioned electrolyte cooling device for the electrolytic hydrogen production system, which will not be repeated here.
[0089] The electrolyte cooling method of the electrolytic hydrogen production system in this application embodiment first drains any residual electrolyte inside the flash tank 100, allowing the high-temperature electrolyte to accumulate inside the flash tank 100. When the high-temperature electrolyte accumulates to the rated level, a pressure environment lower than the saturated vapor pressure of the electrolyte is established inside the flash tank 100, causing the electrolyte to boil and flash out water vapor, thereby rapidly reducing the electrolyte temperature. The low-temperature electrolyte is then pumped back into the electrolytic cell, completing the cooling and circulation of the electrolyte.
[0090] In this embodiment, the second preset pressure is set to be higher than the saturated vapor pressure of the electrolyte in the electrolytic cell, but lower than the operating pressure of the electrolytic cell. This ensures that the high-temperature electrolyte can enter the flash tank 100 under the influence of the pressure difference without immediately undergoing flash evaporation.
[0091] In this embodiment, the third preset pressure is set to be lower than the saturated vapor pressure of the electrolyte in the electrolytic cell but higher than atmospheric pressure. This creates a pressure environment below the saturated vapor pressure of the electrolyte within the flash tank 100, causing the electrolyte to boil and flash out water vapor, thus achieving a rapid decrease in electrolyte temperature.
[0092] The above are merely preferred embodiments of this application. It should be noted that those skilled in the art can make various improvements and modifications without departing from the principles of this application, and these improvements and modifications should also be considered within the scope of protection of this application.
Claims
1. An electrolyte cooling device for an electrolytic hydrogen production system, characterized in that, include: A flash tank (100) is provided with a liquid level sensor (101) inside the flash tank (100). An electrolyte inlet line (103) is connected to the flash tank (100). A first check valve (104) is provided on the electrolyte inlet line (103). The first check valve (104) is configured to allow the electrolyte to flow unidirectionally from the electrolyte inlet line (103) to the flash tank (100). A steam output pipeline (105) is connected to the upper end of the flash tank (100) in the direction of gravity. A first valve (106) is provided on the steam output pipeline (105). The first valve (106) is configured to connect or disconnect the steam output pipeline (105). A process gas input line (107) is connected to the flash tank (100). A second valve (108) is provided on the process gas input line (107). The second valve (108) is configured to connect or disconnect the process gas input line (107). An electrolyte output line (109) is connected to the lower end of the flash tank (100) in the direction of gravity. A second one-way valve (110) and a pressurizing pump (111) are provided on the electrolyte output line (109). The second one-way valve (110) is configured to allow the electrolyte to flow unidirectionally from the flash tank (100) to the electrolyte output line (109).
2. The electrolyte cooling device for the electrolytic hydrogen production system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The electrolyte cooling device further includes: A pressure sensor (102) is disposed inside the flash tank (100), and the pressure sensor (102) is located at the upper end of the liquid level sensor (101) in the direction of gravity.
3. The electrolyte cooling device for the electrolytic hydrogen production system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The electrolyte cooling device further includes: A temperature sensor (112) is disposed inside the flash tank (100), and the temperature sensor (112) is located at the lower end of the liquid level sensor (101) in the direction of gravity.
4. The electrolyte cooling device for the electrolytic hydrogen production system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The flash tank (100) has a first connection port (113) on its wall that connects to the electrolyte input pipeline (103). The first connection port (113) is located at the upper end of the liquid level sensor (101) in the direction of gravity.
5. The electrolyte cooling device for the electrolytic hydrogen production system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The flash tank (100) has a first connection port (113) on its wall that connects to the electrolyte input pipeline (103). The height of the first connection port (113) is not higher than 2 / 3 of the height of the flash tank (100).
6. The electrolyte cooling device for the electrolytic hydrogen production system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The electrolyte cooling device further includes: A vapor filter (115) is disposed inside the flash tank (100). The vapor filter (115) divides the interior of the flash tank (100) into a first chamber (100-1) located at the upper end in the direction of gravity and a second chamber (100-2) located at the lower end in the direction of gravity. The vapor output pipeline (105) is connected to the first chamber (100-1). The liquid level sensor (101) is located in the second chamber (100-2). The electrolyte input pipeline (103), the process gas input pipeline (107), the electrolyte output pipeline (109) are connected to the second chamber (100-2).
7. The electrolyte cooling device for the electrolytic hydrogen production system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The electrolyte cooling device further includes an electrolyte diversion valve (116) and an electrolyte return line (117). The electrolyte diversion valve (116) has a first outlet (1161) and a second outlet (1162). The electrolyte return line (117) is connected to the first outlet (1161), and the electrolyte input line (103) is connected to the second outlet (1162). The electrolyte diversion valve (116) is configured to deliver electrolyte to the electrolyte return line (117) and the electrolyte input line (103) according to a target ratio.
8. A method for cooling the electrolyte in an electrolytic hydrogen production system, based on the electrolyte cooling device for an electrolytic hydrogen production system according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, include: The first valve (106) and the first check valve (104) are closed, the second valve (108) and the second check valve (110) are opened, the pressurization pump (111) is started, and the process gas with the first preset pressure is controlled to enter the interior of the flash tank (100) so as to return the electrolytic liquid inside the flash tank (100) to the electrolytic cell. The second valve (108) and the second check valve (110) are closed, and the opening and closing of the first valve (106) are controlled to maintain the internal pressure of the flash tank (100) at the first preset pressure. The first check valve (104) is opened, and the electrolyte enters the flash tank (100) through the electrolyte input pipeline (103) under the action of pressure difference and boils, flashing out water vapor. The water vapor is discharged through the first valve (106), and the remaining low temperature electrolyte accumulates in the flash tank (100). When the liquid level sensor (101) detects that the liquid level inside the flash tank (100) has reached the rated value, the first valve (106) and the first check valve (104) are closed, the second valve (108) and the second check valve (110) are opened, the pressurization pump (111) is started, and the process gas is controlled to enter the interior of the flash tank (100) to return the electrolytic liquid inside the flash tank (100) to the electrolytic cell.
9. The electrolyte cooling method for the electrolytic hydrogen production system according to claim 8, characterized in that, The first preset pressure is set to be lower than the saturated vapor pressure of the electrolyte in the electrolytic cell and higher than atmospheric pressure.
10. A method for cooling the electrolyte in an electrolytic hydrogen production system, based on the electrolyte cooling device for an electrolytic hydrogen production system according to any one of claims 1-7, characterized in that, include: The first valve (106) and the first check valve (104) are closed, the second valve (108) and the second check valve (110) are opened, the pressurization pump (111) is started, and the process gas with a second preset pressure is controlled to enter the interior of the flash tank (100) so as to return the electrolytic liquid inside the flash tank (100) to the electrolytic cell. The second valve (108) and the second check valve (110) are closed, and the first check valve (104) is opened, so that the electrolyte enters the flash tank (100) and accumulates inside; When the liquid level sensor (101) detects that the liquid level inside the flash tank (100) has reached the rated value, the first one-way valve (104) is closed, and the opening and closing of the first valve (106) is controlled to maintain the internal pressure of the flash tank (100) at the third preset pressure. The electrolyte inside the flash tank (100) boils and flashes out water vapor, which is discharged through the first valve (106). When the temperature sensor (112) detects that the electrolyte temperature is lower than the boiling point under the third preset pressure, the first valve (106) is closed, the second valve (108) and the second check valve (110) are opened, the pressurizing pump (111) is started, and the process gas is controlled to enter the interior of the flash tank (100) so as to pump the electrolyte liquid inside the flash tank (100) back to the electrolytic cell.
11. The electrolyte cooling method for the electrolytic hydrogen production system according to claim 10, characterized in that, The second preset pressure is set to be higher than the saturated vapor pressure of the electrolyte in the electrolytic cell and lower than the operating pressure of the electrolytic cell.
12. The electrolyte cooling method for the electrolytic hydrogen production system according to claim 10, characterized in that, The third preset pressure is set to be lower than the saturated vapor pressure of the electrolyte in the electrolytic cell, but higher than atmospheric pressure.