Air-driven hydrogen pressure boosting system and control method thereof

Abstract

This invention relates to the field of hydrogen compression and boosting equipment technology, specifically disclosing a gas-driven hydrogen boosting system and its control method. The gas-driven hydrogen boosting system includes a hydrogen input unit, a nitrogen drive unit, a water cooling unit, a gas-liquid separation unit, and at least three gas-driven booster pumps. The hydrogen flow rate entering the compression end of the gas-driven booster pump from the hydrogen input unit is adjustable, and the nitrogen flow rate entering the drive end of the gas-driven booster pump from the nitrogen drive unit is also adjustable. This allows for precise adjustment of the hydrogen pressure and driving nitrogen pressure of the gas-driven hydrogen boosting system, thus adapting to different boosting conditions. By adjusting the on / off state of the gas-driven booster pumps with the hydrogen input unit and nitrogen drive unit according to the actual gas usage conditions, the goal of variable flow rate gas usage is achieved. The water cooling unit can rapidly cool the high-temperature hydrogen generated during compression. The gas-liquid separation unit can perform condensate sedimentation separation and pressure buffering and stabilization.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of hydrogen compression and boosting equipment technology, and in particular to a gas-driven hydrogen boosting system and its control method. Background Technology

[0002] Currently, high-pressure hydrogen booster equipment is mainly divided into motor-driven reciprocating compressors, hydraulically driven booster compressors, and gas-driven hydrogen booster equipment. Among them, motor-driven reciprocating compressors require explosion-proof motors, reduction gear transmission mechanisms, and lubrication systems, resulting in bulky equipment, high costs, and difficulties in explosion-proof modifications. Furthermore, they rely on industrial power supply, making them unsuitable for power-free or high-risk explosion-proof operating conditions. Hydraulically driven booster compressors suffer from problems such as hydraulic oil leakage contaminating the hydrogen medium, overheating, high maintenance costs, and unreliable medium purity. Gas-driven hydrogen booster equipment is mostly a single-pump structure with a single gas flow rate, unable to adapt to variable flow gas demand, and suffers from large pressure pulsations, poor adaptability to operating conditions, low equipment integration, and poor protection. In addition, traditional equipment often features scattered pipeline layouts without integrated sheet metal structures, resulting in poor dustproof, noise reduction, and protective performance, and inconvenient transportation and installation.

[0003] Therefore, there is an urgent need to design a gas-driven hydrogen booster system and its control method to solve the above problems. Summary of the Invention

[0004] The purpose of this invention is to provide a gas-driven hydrogen booster system and its control method to meet the gas demand with varying flow rates.

[0005] On one hand, the present invention provides a gas-driven hydrogen boosting system, comprising: at least three gas-driven booster pumps; a hydrogen input unit, the inlet of which is connected to a hydrogen supply device, the inlet of the compression end of each gas-driven booster pump being slewably connected to the outlet of the hydrogen input unit, and the hydrogen flow rate entering the inlet of the compression end of the gas-driven booster pump from the hydrogen input unit being adjustable; and a nitrogen drive unit, the inlet of which is connected to a nitrogen supply device, wherein each gas-driven... The air inlets of the booster pump drive end are all connected to the air outlet of the nitrogen drive unit in a way that allows for switching on and off, and the nitrogen flow rate from the nitrogen drive unit to the air inlet of the booster pump drive end is adjustable; the water cooling unit has the air outlet of each booster pump compression end connected to the air inlet of the water cooling unit; the gas-liquid separation unit has the air inlet connected to the air outlet of the water cooling unit, the gas outlet of the gas-liquid separation unit connected to the hydrogen-using equipment, and the liquid outlet of the gas-liquid separation unit connected to the drainage equipment.

[0006] As an optional technical solution for the gas-driven hydrogen booster system, the gas-driven hydrogen booster system further includes a controller. The hydrogen input unit includes a hydrogen delivery pipeline and a first electro-proportional valve disposed on the hydrogen delivery pipeline. The inlet of the compression end of each gas-driven booster pump is connected to the outlet of the hydrogen delivery pipeline in a switchable manner. The controller is electrically connected to the first electro-proportional valve, and the controller can control the first electro-proportional valve to adjust the hydrogen flow rate at the inlet of the compression end of the gas-driven booster pump.

[0007] As an optional technical solution for the gas-driven hydrogen booster system, the hydrogen input unit further includes a hydrogen pressure stabilizing tank and a first tubular filter. The first tubular filter and the hydrogen pressure stabilizing tank are sequentially arranged in the hydrogen delivery pipeline, and the first electro-proportional valve is located between the first tubular filter and the hydrogen pressure stabilizing tank.

[0008] As an optional technical solution for the gas-driven hydrogen booster system, the hydrogen input unit further includes a first pressure gauge, a first pressure transmitter, and a first temperature sensor, all of which are electrically connected to the controller. The first pressure gauge and the first pressure transmitter are both located in the hydrogen pressure stabilizing tank, and the first temperature sensor is located in the hydrogen delivery pipeline, between the hydrogen pressure stabilizing tank and the air inlet of the compression end of the gas-driven booster pump.

[0009] As an optional technical solution for the gas-driven hydrogen boosting system, the gas-driven hydrogen boosting system further includes a controller. The nitrogen drive unit includes a nitrogen drive pipeline and a second electro-proportional valve disposed on the nitrogen drive pipeline. The air inlet of each gas-driven booster pump drive end is connected to the air outlet of the nitrogen drive pipeline in a switchable manner. The controller is electrically connected to the second electro-proportional valve, and the controller can control the second electro-proportional valve to adjust the nitrogen flow rate at the air inlet of the gas-driven booster pump drive end.

[0010] As an optional technical solution for the gas-driven hydrogen booster system, the nitrogen drive unit further includes a nitrogen pressure stabilizing tank and a second tubular filter. The second tubular filter and the nitrogen pressure stabilizing tank are sequentially arranged in the nitrogen drive pipeline, and the second electro-proportional valve is located between the second tubular filter and the nitrogen pressure stabilizing tank.

[0011] As an optional technical solution for the gas-driven hydrogen booster system, the water-cooling unit includes a first filter and a water-cooled cooler. The outlet of the compression end of each gas-driven booster pump is connected to the inlet of the first filter, the outlet of the first filter is connected to the inlet of the water-cooled cooler, and the outlet of the water-cooled cooler is connected to the inlet of the gas-liquid separation unit.

[0012] As an optional technical solution for a gas-driven hydrogen booster system, the gas-liquid separation unit includes an exhaust pressure-stabilizing water separator, a hydrogen output pipe, and a drain pipe. The inlet of the exhaust pressure-stabilizing water separator is connected to the outlet of the water-cooled cooler, the hydrogen output pipe is connected to the top outlet of the exhaust pressure-stabilizing water separator, and the drain pipe is connected to the bottom outlet of the exhaust pressure-stabilizing water separator.

[0013] As an optional technical solution for the gas-driven hydrogen booster system, the gas-driven hydrogen booster system further includes a second temperature sensor and a third temperature sensor. The second temperature sensor is disposed between the first filter and the water-cooled cooler, and the third temperature sensor is disposed in the hydrogen output pipe.

[0014] On the other hand, the present invention provides a control method for a gas-driven hydrogen booster system, applicable to any of the above-mentioned gas-driven hydrogen booster systems, wherein the gas-driven hydrogen booster system has low-flow gas consumption conditions, medium-flow gas consumption conditions, and high-flow gas consumption conditions, and the control method for the gas-driven hydrogen booster system includes: The first electro-proportional valve of the gas-driven hydrogen booster system adjusts the hydrogen flow rate into the inlet of the gas-driven booster pump to a preset value. The nitrogen flow rate entering the inlet of the gas-driven booster pump is adjusted to a preset value by the second electro-proportional valve of the gas-driven hydrogen booster system. When under the aforementioned low-flow gas consumption condition: The outlet of the hydrogen input unit is connected to the inlet of the compression end of the gas-driven booster pump, and the inlet of the drive end of the gas-driven booster pump is connected to the outlet of the nitrogen drive unit. When operating under the aforementioned medium-flow gas consumption condition: The outlet of the hydrogen input unit is connected to the inlet of the compression end of the two gas-driven booster pumps, and the inlet of the drive end of the two gas-driven booster pumps is connected to the outlet of the nitrogen drive unit. When under the aforementioned high-flow gas consumption condition: The outlet of the hydrogen input unit is connected to the inlet of the compression end of the three gas-driven booster pumps, and the inlet of the drive end of the three gas-driven booster pumps is connected to the outlet of the nitrogen drive unit.

[0015] The beneficial effects of this invention are as follows: This invention provides a gas-driven hydrogen booster system, comprising a hydrogen input unit, a nitrogen drive unit, a water cooling unit, a gas-liquid separation unit, and at least three gas-driven booster pumps. Using this gas-driven hydrogen booster system, the hydrogen flow rate entering the inlet of the gas-driven booster pump's compression end from the hydrogen input unit is adjustable, and the nitrogen flow rate entering the inlet of the gas-driven booster pump's drive end from the nitrogen drive unit is also adjustable. This allows for adjustment of the hydrogen and nitrogen flow rates according to actual conditions, thereby precisely regulating the hydrogen pressure and driving nitrogen pressure of the gas-driven hydrogen booster system to adapt to different booster operating conditions. Simultaneously, the inlet of the compression end of each gas-driven booster pump is connected to the outlet of the hydrogen input unit in a switchable manner. The system is interconnected, with the air inlet of each gas-driven booster pump connected to the outlet of the nitrogen-driven unit. This allows for on / off switching between the gas-driven booster pump and the hydrogen input unit and nitrogen-driven unit, adjusting the flow rate to meet varying gas demand. A water-cooling unit rapidly cools the high-temperature hydrogen generated during compression. A gas-liquid separation unit separates condensate and buffers pressure, eliminating pressure pulsations caused by multiple pumps operating in parallel and ultimately ensuring a stable output of high-pressure hydrogen. This gas-driven hydrogen booster system can adapt to varying gas demand. Attached Figure Description

[0016] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the gas-driven hydrogen booster system in an embodiment of the present invention; Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the gas-driven hydrogen booster system in an embodiment of the present invention from another angle; Figure 3 This is a flowchart of a gas-driven hydrogen booster system in an embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] In the picture: 1. Air-driven booster pump; 2. Hydrogen input unit; 21. Hydrogen delivery pipeline; 22. First electro-proportional valve; 23. Hydrogen pressure stabilizing tank; 24. First tubular filter; 25. First pressure gauge; 26. First pressure transmitter; 27. First temperature sensor; 3. Nitrogen drive unit; 31. Nitrogen drive pipeline; 32. Second electro-proportional valve; 33. Nitrogen pressure stabilizing tank; 34. Second tubular filter; 4. Water-cooled unit; 41. First filter; 42. Water-cooled cooler; 5. Gas-liquid separation unit; 51. Exhaust pressure stabilizing water separator; 52. Hydrogen output pipe; 53. Drain pipe; 61. Second temperature sensor; 62. Third temperature sensor. Detailed Implementation

[0018] The technical solution of the present invention will now be clearly and completely described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only some, not all, of the embodiments of the present invention. Based on the embodiments of the present invention, all other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art without creative effort are within the scope of protection of the present invention.

[0019] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that the terms "center," "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "inner," and "outer," etc., indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing the invention and for simplifying the description, and do not indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on the invention. Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance. The terms "first position" and "second position" refer to two different positions. Furthermore, "above," "on top of," and "over" the first feature in relation to the second feature includes the first feature directly above and diagonally above the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "under," and "below" the first feature in relation to the second feature includes the first feature directly below and diagonally below the second feature, or simply indicates that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0020] In the description of this invention, it should be noted that, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," and "linking" should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral connection; 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; and they can refer to the internal connection of two components. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention based on the specific circumstances.

[0021] Embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below. Examples of these embodiments are shown in the accompanying drawings, wherein the same or similar reference numerals denote the same or similar elements or elements having the same or similar functions throughout. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and are only used to explain the present invention, and should not be construed as limiting the present invention.

[0022] like Figures 1 to 3As shown, this embodiment provides a gas-driven hydrogen boosting system, which includes a hydrogen input unit 2, a nitrogen drive unit 3, a water cooling unit 4, a gas-liquid separation unit 5, and at least three gas-driven boosting pumps 1. The hydrogen input unit 2 has its inlet connected to the hydrogen supply equipment. The inlet of the compression end of each gas-driven booster pump 1 is connected to the outlet of the hydrogen input unit 2 in a switchable manner, and the hydrogen flow rate from the hydrogen input unit 2 to the inlet of the compression end of the gas-driven booster pump 1 is adjustable. The nitrogen drive unit 3 has its inlet connected to the nitrogen supply equipment. The inlet of the drive end of each gas-driven booster pump 1 is connected to the outlet of the nitrogen drive unit 3 in a switchable manner, and the nitrogen flow rate from the nitrogen drive unit 3 to the inlet of the drive end of the gas-driven booster pump 1 is adjustable. The outlet of the compression end of each gas-driven booster pump 1 is connected to the inlet of the water-cooling unit 4. The gas-liquid separation unit 5 has its inlet connected to the outlet of the water-cooling unit 4. The gas outlet of the gas-liquid separation unit 5 is connected to the hydrogen-using equipment, and the liquid outlet of the gas-liquid separation unit 5 is connected to the drainage equipment.

[0023] The gas-driven hydrogen booster system of this invention allows for adjustable hydrogen flow rates at the inlet of the gas-driven booster pump 1's compression end via the hydrogen input unit 2, and adjustable nitrogen flow rates at the inlet of the gas-driven booster pump 1's drive end via the nitrogen drive unit 3. This allows for adjustment of the hydrogen and nitrogen flow rates according to actual conditions, thereby precisely regulating the hydrogen and driving nitrogen pressures of the gas-driven hydrogen booster system and adapting to different booster operating conditions. Simultaneously, the inlet of each gas-driven booster pump 1's compression end is connected to the outlet of the hydrogen input unit 2 in a switchable manner. Furthermore, the air inlet of each gas-driven booster pump 1 is connected to the outlet of the nitrogen-driven unit 3 in a switchable manner. This allows for adjustment of the connection between the gas-driven booster pump 1 and the hydrogen input unit 2 and nitrogen-driven unit 3 according to actual gas usage conditions, achieving the goal of meeting variable flow gas requirements. A water-cooling unit 4 is provided to rapidly cool the high-temperature hydrogen generated during compression. A gas-liquid separation unit 5 is provided to complete condensate sedimentation separation and pressure buffering and stabilization, eliminating pressure pulsations caused by multiple pumps operating in parallel, ultimately resulting in a stable output of high-pressure hydrogen. Using the gas-driven hydrogen booster system of this invention, it is possible to adapt to variable flow gas requirements.

[0024] It should be noted that the gas-driven hydrogen booster system of the present invention is a pure gas-driven structure without a motor, which has high safety. Moreover, the present invention completely eliminates the motor, crankshaft and hydraulic transmission structure, and relies on 8 kg of low-pressure nitrogen to drive the work. There are no electrical explosion hazards, no lubricating oil or hydraulic oil contamination of the hydrogen medium, and it is suitable for high-risk explosion-proof and special working conditions without power supply.

[0025] In some embodiments, the gas-driven hydrogen booster system further includes a controller, and the hydrogen input unit 2 includes a hydrogen delivery pipeline 21 and a first electro-proportional valve 22 disposed on the hydrogen delivery pipeline 21. The inlet of the compression end of each gas-driven booster pump 1 is connected to the outlet of the hydrogen delivery pipeline 21 in a switchable manner. The controller is electrically connected to the first electro-proportional valve 22, thus allowing the controller to control the operation of the first electro-proportional valve 22, thereby adjusting the hydrogen flow rate entering the inlet of the compression end of the gas-driven booster pump 1.

[0026] In this embodiment, the hydrogen input unit 2 further includes a hydrogen pressure stabilizing tank 23 and a first tubular filter 24. The first tubular filter 24 and the hydrogen pressure stabilizing tank 23 are sequentially arranged in the hydrogen delivery pipeline 21, and a first electro-proportional valve 22 is located between the first tubular filter 24 and the hydrogen pressure stabilizing tank 23. The first tubular filter 24 filters the hydrogen entering the hydrogen pressure stabilizing tank 23; the hydrogen pressure stabilizing tank 23 stabilizes the hydrogen pressure, ensuring stable pressure of the hydrogen entering the inlet of the gas-driven booster pump 1 at the compression end.

[0027] Furthermore, the hydrogen input unit 2 also includes a first pressure gauge 25, a first pressure transmitter 26, and a first temperature sensor 27, all electrically connected to the controller. The first pressure gauge 25 and the first pressure transmitter 26 are both located in the hydrogen pressure stabilizing tank 23, and the first temperature sensor 27 is located in the hydrogen delivery pipeline 21, between the hydrogen pressure stabilizing tank 23 and the inlet of the compression end of the gas-driven booster pump 1. With this configuration, the pressure value of the hydrogen pressure stabilizing tank 23 can be detected in real time using the first pressure gauge 25 and the first pressure transmitter 26, and the temperature of the hydrogen delivery pipeline 21 can be detected in real time using the first temperature sensor 27. The first temperature sensor 27 is a thermocouple.

[0028] Optionally, the hydrogen input unit 2 also includes multiple process gas control valves installed in the hydrogen delivery pipeline 21. The multiple process gas control valves correspond to multiple gas-driven booster pumps 1, enabling individual on / off control of any single gas-driven booster pump 1, with no interference between start and stop operations. The first electro-proportional valve 22 monitors the process hydrogen inlet pressure in real time and dynamically adjusts the inlet pressure value in a closed loop to ensure that the inlet pressure of each gas-driven booster pump 1 is uniform and stable, thus eliminating the problem of inconsistent boosting efficiency caused by pressure deviation.

[0029] In some embodiments, the gas-driven hydrogen booster system further includes a controller, and the nitrogen drive unit 3 includes a nitrogen drive pipeline 31 and a second electro-proportional valve 32 disposed on the nitrogen drive pipeline 31. The air inlet of the drive end of each gas-driven booster pump 1 is connected to the air outlet of the nitrogen drive pipeline 31 in a switchable manner. The controller is electrically connected to the second electro-proportional valve 32, and the controller controls the operation of the second electro-proportional valve 32 to adjust the nitrogen flow rate entering the air inlet of the drive end of the gas-driven booster pump 1.

[0030] Furthermore, the nitrogen drive unit 3 also includes a nitrogen pressure stabilizing tank 33 and a second tubular filter 34, which are sequentially arranged in the nitrogen drive pipeline 31, and the second electro-proportional valve 32 is located between the second tubular filter 34 and the nitrogen pressure stabilizing tank 33.

[0031] Optionally, the nitrogen drive unit 3 also includes multiple dedicated control valves for drive gas installed in the nitrogen drive pipeline 31, each corresponding to multiple gas-driven booster pumps 1. The controller controls the opening and closing of each dedicated control valve for drive gas individually according to the downstream gas consumption and the outlet high pressure signal, so as to realize the combined operation of single, dual, or multiple gas-driven booster pumps 1; the second electro-proportional valve 32 collects the drive gas pressure feedback in real time, and adjusts the drive nitrogen input pressure in a closed loop to stabilize the drive power output.

[0032] In this embodiment, the water-cooling unit 4 includes a first filter 41 and a water-cooled cooler 42. The outlet of the compression end of each air-driven booster pump 1 is connected to the inlet of the first filter 41, the outlet of the first filter 41 is connected to the inlet of the water-cooled cooler 42, and the outlet of the water-cooled cooler 42 is connected to the inlet of the gas-liquid separation unit 5.

[0033] Furthermore, the gas-liquid separation unit 5 includes an exhaust pressure-stabilizing water separator 51, a hydrogen output pipe 52, and a drain pipe 53. The inlet of the exhaust pressure-stabilizing water separator 51 is connected to the outlet of the water-cooled cooler 42, the hydrogen output pipe 52 is connected to the top outlet of the exhaust pressure-stabilizing water separator 51, and the drain pipe 53 is connected to the bottom outlet of the exhaust pressure-stabilizing water separator 51.

[0034] In some embodiments, the gas-driven hydrogen booster system further includes a second temperature sensor 61 and a third temperature sensor 62, wherein the second temperature sensor 61 is disposed between the first filter 41 and the water-cooled cooler 42, and the third temperature sensor 62 is disposed in the hydrogen output pipe 52.

[0035] This embodiment also provides a control method for a gas-driven hydrogen booster system, applicable to the gas-driven hydrogen booster system in the above scheme. The gas-driven hydrogen booster system has low-flow gas consumption conditions, medium-flow gas consumption conditions, and high-flow gas consumption conditions. The control method for the gas-driven hydrogen booster system includes: adjusting the hydrogen flow rate entering the inlet of the compression end of the gas-driven booster pump 1 to a preset value through the first electro-proportional valve 22 of the gas-driven hydrogen booster system; and adjusting the nitrogen flow rate entering the inlet of the drive end of the gas-driven booster pump 1 to a preset value through the second electro-proportional valve 32 of the gas-driven hydrogen booster system. When operating under low gas flow conditions: The outlet of the hydrogen input unit 2 is connected to the inlet of the compression end of a gas-driven booster pump 1, and the inlet of the drive end of the gas-driven booster pump 1 is connected to the outlet of the nitrogen drive unit 3. When operating under medium-flow gas consumption conditions: The outlet of the hydrogen input unit 2 is connected to the inlet of the compression end of the two gas-driven booster pumps 1, and the inlet of the drive end of the two gas-driven booster pumps 1 is connected to the outlet of the nitrogen drive unit 3. When operating under high gas flow conditions: The outlet of the hydrogen input unit 2 is connected to the inlet of the compression end of the three gas-driven booster pumps 1, and the inlet of the drive end of the three gas-driven booster pumps 1 is connected to the outlet of the nitrogen drive unit 3.

[0036] The specific embodiments of the present invention are as follows: the rated driving gas source is 0.8MPa nitrogen, the rated process hydrogen inlet pressure is 0.8MPa, and the rated exhaust pressure is 35MPa. An integrated sheet metal housing structure is adopted. When the equipment is powered on, the PLC controller initializes the control system, first checking whether the system's pressure and temperature parameters are normal; after the parameters meet the standards, the rated process hydrogen inlet pressure is set through the first electro-proportional valve 22, and the rated driving nitrogen working pressure is set through the second electro-proportional valve 32. The corresponding process gas control valve and driving gas dedicated control valve of the main unit are opened according to the preset operating conditions.

[0037] in, Low-flow gas usage conditions: The PLC controller only turns on one gas-driven booster pump 1 to introduce nitrogen driving gas and process hydrogen to start working, while the other two gas-driven booster pumps 1 are on standby. Each pump completes the low-pressure hydrogen boosting, and after water cooling and gas-liquid separation, it outputs 35MPa high-pressure hydrogen.

[0038] Medium flow gas usage: The PLC controller synchronously starts two air-driven booster pumps 1 to run in parallel. The first electro-proportional valve 22 and the second electro-proportional valve 32 adaptively fine-tune the pressure parameters to match the booster load of the two pumps and ensure stable pressure output.

[0039] High-flow gas consumption conditions: All PLC controllers are turned on and the three air-driven booster pumps 1 work synchronously. The first electro-proportional valve 22 and the second electro-proportional valve 32 maintain the rated working pressure to meet the maximum gas supply demand.

[0040] During operation, the water-cooling unit 4 cools the high-temperature pressurized hydrogen in real time, the second temperature sensor 61 provides real-time temperature feedback, and the PLC controller dynamically adjusts the cooling water flow to stabilize the hydrogen output temperature within the normal temperature range. The high-pressure sensor monitors the outlet pressure in real time, and when the pressure deviates from the 35MPa set value, it automatically adjusts the number of gas-driven booster pumps 1 in operation and the air intake flow to achieve closed-loop pressure stabilization.

[0041] Condensate generated during operation accumulates at the bottom of the exhaust pressure-stabilizing water separator 51 and is intermittently discharged through the automatic drain pipe 53 to ensure that the output hydrogen is dry and clean. Overpressure safety valves at all levels of the system are on standby in real time, automatically releasing pressure in case of abnormal overpressure to ensure safe equipment operation.

[0042] Optionally, the sheet metal cabinet is an integrated sealed box-type frame structure, and the whole is made of RAL9002 powder-coated sheet metal material. After the modular sheet metal parts are prefabricated separately and the whole machine is pre-assembled and verified, the cabinet is transported separately to the assembly station to complete the final assembly.

[0043] The cabinet's front panel consists of left and right double-door sheet metal structures, with the doors opening and closing via side hinges. The left door area features a recessed panel for mounting a display screen and integrated electronic display components. The right door has circular mounting holes for pressure gauges, control valves, and other operating components. Multiple sheet metal assembly interfaces, positioning bosses, and limiting clips are located on the top, sides, and bottom of the front panel to ensure a sealed and limited fit between the door panel and the cabinet frame. A floor-mounted sheet metal base forms the load-bearing structure for the entire unit. The side panels have pre-drilled openings for electrical wiring and embedded component mounting slots. These slots and openings provide space for electrical cables and internal components. Folded edges and riveting structures ensure a sealed connection between the side panels and the main cabinet frame. The lower end of the side panel integrates a split sheet metal base structure, which is integrally bent and formed with the side panel. It is used to support the pipes and valves at the bottom of the cabinet. The outer edge of the side panel is equipped with an assembly flange and locks onto the main frame of the cabinet. The top panel is composed of multiple sheet metal pieces, and the panel is designed with a split locking structure for equipment hoisting, maintenance, and disassembly. The bottom view shows the projection of the sheet metal base supporting the bottom of the cabinet. The base is an integral bent sheet metal frame with a limiting and positioning block in the middle and assembly overlapping ear plates on the sides for floor installation and positioning and fixing with the internal unit. All sheet metal parts of the cabinet are formed using sheet metal bending, drilling, riveting / assembly processes, and the surface is uniformly treated with RAL9002 powder coating for corrosion protection. All sheet metal components are first disassembled, machined, and pre-assembled and tested. After the whole machine is assembled and verified to be correct, it is disassembled and transported to another location for secondary assembly.

[0044] The advantages of this invention are as follows: 1. High safety due to its motorless, pure air-driven structure: This invention completely eliminates the motor, crankshaft, and hydraulic transmission structure, relying on 8 kg of low-pressure nitrogen gas for power generation. There are no electrical explosion hazards, and no contamination of the hydrogen medium by lubricating oil or hydraulic oil. It is suitable for high-risk explosion-proof and special working conditions without power supply.

[0045] 2. Independent controllable single unit + dual-path precise pressure regulation, strong adaptability to working conditions: The driving gas and process gas of multiple air-driven booster pumps 1 can be started and stopped independently without interference; with the first electro-proportional valve 22 and the second electro-proportional valve 32, it can adapt to small, medium and large range of gas loads, solving the problems of non-adjustable pressure, inconsistent single pump working conditions and large pressure pulsation in traditional equipment.

[0046] 3. Multiple gas-driven booster pumps connected in parallel for stable output pressure: The parallel connection of multiple pumps, combined with the back-end pressure stabilizing and liquid distribution structure, completely eliminates the pulse pressure fluctuations of a single pump, and stably achieves continuous output of 35MPa high-pressure hydrogen with high gas supply accuracy.

[0047] 4. Water-cooled constant temperature cooling, high medium quality: The integrated water-cooled heat exchange structure can quickly remove the heat of compression, and the gas-liquid separation structure removes condensed water. The output high-pressure hydrogen is at a suitable temperature, dry and clean, and no subsequent auxiliary processing equipment is required.

[0048] 5. Modular integration of sheet metal, highly practical: The whole machine adopts an integrated sheet metal box to integrate all components, with a compact structure, dustproof and noise reduction, good protection, and can be transported by overall skid and quickly installed in place, making maintenance and disassembly convenient.

[0049] 6. Multi-level safety protection and reliable operation: Independent safety valves are installed on the low-pressure nitrogen side, low-pressure hydrogen side and high-pressure output side. Overpressure is automatically released, and with the help of electrical control interlock protection, the equipment can be safely and stably operated in all aspects.

[0050] Obviously, the above embodiments of the present invention are merely examples for clearly illustrating the present invention, and are not intended to limit the implementation of the present invention. Those skilled in the art can make other variations or modifications based on the above description. It is neither necessary nor possible to exhaustively describe all embodiments here. Any modifications, equivalent substitutions, and improvements made within the spirit and principles of the present invention should be included within the scope of protection of the claims of the present invention.

Claims

1. A gas-driven hydrogen booster system, characterized in that, include: At least three air-driven booster pumps (1); Hydrogen input unit (2), the inlet of the hydrogen input unit (2) is connected to the hydrogen supply equipment, the inlet of the compression end of each gas-driven booster pump (1) is connected to the outlet of the hydrogen input unit (2) in a way that can be switched on and off, and the hydrogen flow rate of the hydrogen input unit (2) into the inlet of the compression end of the gas-driven booster pump (1) is adjustable; Nitrogen drive unit (3), the air inlet of the nitrogen drive unit (3) is connected to the nitrogen supply equipment, the air inlet of the drive end of each gas-driven booster pump (1) is connected to the air outlet of the nitrogen drive unit (3) in a switchable manner, and the nitrogen flow rate of the nitrogen drive unit (3) entering the air inlet of the drive end of the gas-driven booster pump (1) is adjustable. The outlet of the compression end of each of the air-driven booster pumps (1) is connected to the inlet end of the water-cooled unit (4). The gas-liquid separation unit (5) has an inlet end connected to the outlet end of the water-cooling unit (4), a gas outlet connected to the hydrogen-using equipment, and a liquid outlet connected to the drainage equipment.

2. The gas-driven hydrogen booster system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The gas-driven hydrogen booster system also includes a controller. The hydrogen input unit (2) includes a hydrogen delivery pipeline (21) and a first electro-proportional valve (22) disposed on the hydrogen delivery pipeline (21). The air inlet of the compression end of each gas-driven booster pump (1) is connected to the air outlet of the hydrogen delivery pipeline (21) in a switchable manner. The controller is electrically connected to the first electro-proportional valve (22). The controller can control the first electro-proportional valve (22) to adjust the hydrogen flow rate at the air inlet of the compression end of the gas-driven booster pump (1).

3. The gas-driven hydrogen booster system according to claim 2, characterized in that, The hydrogen input unit (2) further includes a hydrogen pressure stabilizing tank (23) and a first tubular filter (24). The first tubular filter (24) and the hydrogen pressure stabilizing tank (23) are sequentially arranged in the hydrogen delivery pipeline (21). The first electro-proportional valve (22) is located between the first tubular filter (24) and the hydrogen pressure stabilizing tank (23).

4. The gas-driven hydrogen booster system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The hydrogen input unit (2) also includes a first pressure gauge (25), a first pressure transmitter (26) and a first temperature sensor (27) all electrically connected to the controller. The first pressure gauge (25) and the first pressure transmitter (26) are both located in the hydrogen pressure stabilizing tank (23). The first temperature sensor (27) is located in the hydrogen delivery pipeline (21) and between the hydrogen pressure stabilizing tank (23) and the air inlet of the compression end of the gas-driven booster pump (1).

5. The gas-driven hydrogen booster system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The gas-driven hydrogen booster system also includes a controller. The nitrogen drive unit (3) includes a nitrogen drive pipeline (31) and a second electro-proportional valve (32) disposed on the nitrogen drive pipeline (31). The air inlet of each gas-driven booster pump (1) is connected to the air outlet of the nitrogen drive pipeline (31) in a switchable manner. The controller is electrically connected to the second electro-proportional valve (32). The controller can control the second electro-proportional valve (32) to adjust the nitrogen flow rate at the air inlet of the gas-driven booster pump (1).

6. The gas-driven hydrogen booster system according to claim 5, characterized in that, The nitrogen drive unit (3) further includes a nitrogen pressure stabilizing tank (33) and a second tubular filter (34). The second tubular filter (34) and the nitrogen pressure stabilizing tank (33) are sequentially arranged in the nitrogen drive pipeline (31). The second electro-proportional valve (32) is located between the second tubular filter (34) and the nitrogen pressure stabilizing tank (33).

7. The gas-driven hydrogen booster system according to claim 1, characterized in that, The water-cooling unit (4) includes a first filter (41) and a water-cooled cooler (42). The outlet of the compression end of each of the air-driven booster pumps (1) is connected to the inlet of the first filter (41). The outlet of the first filter (41) is connected to the inlet of the water-cooled cooler (42). The outlet of the water-cooled cooler (42) is connected to the inlet of the gas-liquid separation unit (5).

8. The gas-driven hydrogen booster system according to claim 7, characterized in that, The gas-liquid separation unit (5) includes an exhaust pressure-stabilizing water separator (51), a hydrogen output pipe (52), and a drain pipe (53). The inlet of the exhaust pressure-stabilizing water separator (51) is connected to the outlet of the water-cooled cooler (42). The hydrogen output pipe (52) is connected to the top outlet of the exhaust pressure-stabilizing water separator (51). The drain pipe (53) is connected to the bottom outlet of the exhaust pressure-stabilizing water separator (51).

9. The gas-driven hydrogen booster system according to claim 8, characterized in that, The gas-driven hydrogen booster system also includes a second temperature sensor (61) and a third temperature sensor (62). The second temperature sensor (61) is located between the first filter (41) and the water-cooled cooler (42), and the third temperature sensor (62) is located in the hydrogen output pipe (52).

10. A control method for a gas-driven hydrogen booster system, characterized in that, The gas-driven hydrogen booster system according to any one of claims 1-9, wherein the gas-driven hydrogen booster system has low-flow gas consumption conditions, medium-flow gas consumption conditions, and high-flow gas consumption conditions, and the control method of the gas-driven hydrogen booster system includes: The hydrogen flow rate entering the inlet of the compression end of the gas-driven booster pump (1) is adjusted to a preset value by the first electric proportional valve (22) of the gas-driven hydrogen booster system. The nitrogen flow rate entering the inlet of the gas-driven booster pump (1) is adjusted to a preset value by the second electric proportional valve (32) of the gas-driven hydrogen booster system. When under the aforementioned low-flow gas consumption condition: The outlet of the hydrogen input unit (2) is connected to the inlet of the compression end of the gas-driven booster pump (1), and the inlet of the drive end of the gas-driven booster pump (1) is connected to the outlet of the nitrogen drive unit (3). When operating under the aforementioned medium-flow gas consumption condition: The outlet of the hydrogen input unit (2) is connected to the inlet of the compression end of the two gas-driven booster pumps (1), and the inlet of the drive end of the two gas-driven booster pumps (1) is connected to the outlet of the nitrogen drive unit (3). When under the aforementioned high-flow gas consumption condition: The outlet of the hydrogen input unit (2) is connected to the inlet of the compression end of the three gas-driven booster pumps (1), and the inlet of the drive end of the three gas-driven booster pumps (1) is connected to the outlet of the nitrogen drive unit (3).

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