Cold heat combined supply system applied to hydrogen production by electrolysis of water

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to a cold-heat combined supply system applied to hydrogen production by electrolysis of water, comprising an electrolysis water module, a hydrogen drying module and a heat exchange module, the electrolysis water module comprising an electrolysis tank, a first water outlet pipe and a first water return pipe, the first water outlet pipe being in communication with a water outlet end of the electrolysis tank, and the first water return pipe being in communication with a water inlet end of the electrolysis tank, the hydrogen drying module comprising a purification device, a second water outlet pipe and a second water return pipe, the purification device being used for drying hydrogen generated by the electrolysis water module, the second water outlet pipe and the second water return pipe being in communication with the purification device respectively, one end of the first water outlet pipe away from the electrolysis tank being in communication with one end of the first water return pipe away from the electrolysis tank to form a first heat exchange loop, one end of the second water outlet pipe away from the purification device being in communication with one end of the second water return pipe away from the purification device to form a second heat exchange loop, the heat exchange module being used for providing heat for the first heat exchange loop, and the heat exchange module being used for providing cold for the second heat exchange loop.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to the field of combined cooling and heating technology for hydrogen production by water electrolysis, specifically, to a combined cooling and heating system applied to hydrogen production by water electrolysis. Background Technology

[0002] Since the hydrogen production process by water electrolysis is an exothermic reaction, there are a large number of low-temperature heat sources. Because no suitable heat sink or other effective means can be found, water coolers have to be used for cooling, which not only wastes low-temperature energy, but also requires additional electricity and chilled water resources.

[0003] In addition, to ensure that the backup electrolyzer can be started quickly, the electrolyzer system needs to be kept at a certain temperature range. This results in a waste of heat in the existing water electrolysis hydrogen production plant, while at the same time, heat and cold energy need to be supplied from the outside.

[0004] Therefore, there is an urgent need to propose a new combined heating and cooling system that can simultaneously meet the needs of high-temperature heating and low-temperature cooling in the water electrolysis hydrogen production process. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The purpose of this disclosure is to provide a combined cooling and heating system for hydrogen production via water electrolysis, in order to solve the technical problems existing in related technologies.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, this disclosure provides a combined cooling and heating system for hydrogen production via water electrolysis, comprising: An electrolytic water module, comprising an electrolytic cell, a first outlet pipe, and a first return pipe, wherein the first outlet pipe is connected to the outlet end of the electrolytic cell, and the first return pipe is connected to the inlet end of the electrolytic cell; A hydrogen drying module, comprising a purification device, a second water outlet pipe, and a second water return pipe, wherein the purification device is used to dry the hydrogen generated by the water electrolysis module, and the second water outlet pipe and the second water return pipe are respectively connected to the purification device; The end of the first water outlet pipe away from the electrolytic cell is connected to the end of the first water return pipe away from the electrolytic cell to form a first heat exchange circuit. The end of the second water outlet pipe away from the purification device is connected to the end of the second water return pipe away from the purification device to form a second heat exchange circuit. A heat exchange module, wherein the heat exchange module is used to provide heat to the first heat exchange circuit, and, The heat exchange module is used to provide cooling for the second heat exchange circuit.

[0007] Optionally, the heat exchange module includes an evaporator, a compressor, a condenser, and an expansion valve, wherein the evaporator, the compressor, the condenser, and the expansion valve are connected in series. The first heat exchange circuit is located on the condenser side of the heat exchange module, and the second heat exchange circuit is located on the evaporator side of the heat exchange module.

[0008] Optionally, the first outlet pipe and / or the first return pipe are fitted into the condenser; The second outlet pipe and / or the second return pipe are fitted together with the evaporator.

[0009] Optionally, the combined cooling and heating system for hydrogen production by water electrolysis further includes a hot water tank and a cold water tank. The hot water tank is connected to the first outlet pipe and is located between the electrolyzer and the heat exchange module. The cold water tank is connected to the second water outlet pipe and is located between the purification device and the heat exchange module.

[0010] Optionally, the hot water tank includes a tank body and a heating component. The tank body has an interior cavity for containing hot water, and the heating component is disposed within the cavity and is capable of heating the hot water located within the cavity.

[0011] Optionally, the combined cooling and heating system for hydrogen production via water electrolysis further includes a controller and a first temperature sensor. The controller is connected to the first temperature sensor and the heating component respectively. The first temperature sensor is disposed in the cavity and is used to detect the temperature of the hot water in the cavity. The controller is used to control the heating component to turn on or off according to the temperature parameter of the hot water detected by the first temperature sensor.

[0012] Optionally, the combined cooling and heating system for hydrogen production via water electrolysis further includes a first circulation pump and a second circulation pump, wherein the first circulation pump is connected to the first outlet pipe and the second circulation pump is connected to the second outlet pipe.

[0013] Optionally, the hot water supply temperature entering the electrolytic cell via the first return water pipe is greater than 75°C, and the cold water supply temperature entering the purification device via the second return water pipe is less than 7°C.

[0014] Optionally, the combined cooling and heating system for hydrogen production by water electrolysis further includes a photovoltaic module, which is electrically connected to the heat exchange module and is used to provide power to the heat exchange module.

[0015] Optionally, a first external supply branch pipe is formed on the first return water pipe, one end of the first external supply branch pipe is connected to the first return water pipe, and the other end of the first external supply branch pipe is used to connect to the heating system. A first control valve is provided on the first external supply branch pipe, and the first control valve is used to control the opening and closing of the first external supply branch pipe; A first water supply branch pipe is formed on the first water outlet pipe. One end of the first water supply branch pipe is connected to the first water outlet pipe, and the other end of the first water supply branch pipe is used for system water supply. A second control valve is installed on the first water supply branch pipe, which is used to control the adjustment of the first water supply branch pipe.

[0016] Through the above technical solution, during the operation of the water electrolysis module, the water flowing out of the electrolyzer exchanges heat with the heat exchange module through the first water outlet pipe. After absorbing heat from the heat exchange module, the temperature of the water rises, and then it enters the electrolyzer through the first water return pipe, thereby increasing the temperature of the electrolyzer and providing a more suitable temperature environment for the start-up and operation of the electrolyzer, thus improving the hydrogen production efficiency.

[0017] In addition, the heat exchange module can provide cooling to the hydrogen drying module while generating heat, thereby meeting the cooling requirements of the purification device during the hydrogen drying process. That is, the continuous supply of low-temperature chilled water is needed for hydrogen purification and drying to meet the cooling requirements during the hydrogen drying process.

[0018] In the above process, the high-temperature water entering the electrolyzer not only utilizes the waste heat of the water electrolysis hydrogen production system, but also eliminates the need for related equipment to cool the hydrogen drying module, saving electricity and chilled water, thus reducing operating costs and reducing investment in supporting public works systems.

[0019] Other features and advantages of this disclosure will be described in detail in the following detailed description section. Attached Figure Description

[0020] The accompanying drawings are provided to further illustrate the present disclosure and form part of the specification. They are used together with the following detailed description to explain the present disclosure, but do not constitute a limitation thereof. In the drawings: Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a combined cooling and heating system for hydrogen production by water electrolysis, provided by an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure. Figure 2 This is a circuit connection diagram of a combined cooling and heating system for hydrogen production by water electrolysis, provided by an exemplary embodiment of this disclosure.

[0021] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures 10-Water electrolysis module; 11-Electrolytic cell; 12-First outlet pipe; 120-First water supply branch pipe; 121-Second control valve; 13-First return pipe; 130-First external supply branch pipe; 131-First control valve; 14-First switch valve; 15-Second switch valve; 20-Hydrogen drying module; 21-Purification device; 22-Second outlet pipe; 23-Second return pipe; 30-Heat exchange module; 40-Hot water tank; 41-Tank body; 42-Heating component; 50-Cold water tank; 60-Controller; 70-First temperature sensor; 80-First circulation pump; 90-Second circulation pump; 100-Photovoltaic module; 200-First heat exchange circuit; 300-Second heat exchange circuit. Detailed Implementation

[0022] The specific embodiments of this disclosure will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are for illustration and explanation only and are not intended to limit this disclosure.

[0023] In this disclosure, unless otherwise stated, directional terms such as "up," "down," "left," and "right" are used to indicate orientation or positional relationships only for the convenience of describing this disclosure and simplifying the description, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or a specific orientation structure and operation, and therefore should not be construed as a limitation of this disclosure. The terms "inner" and "outer" refer to the inner and outer contours of the corresponding structures.

[0024] Furthermore, it should be noted that the terms used, such as "first" and "second," are used to distinguish one element from another and do not indicate sequence or importance. Additionally, in the description with reference to the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals in different drawings denote the same element.

[0025] In the description of this disclosure, it should also be noted that, unless otherwise expressly specified and limited, the terms "set up," "connect," "link," and "install" 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 direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this disclosure according to the specific circumstances.

[0026] To ensure that the backup electrolyzer module can start up quickly, the electrolyzer module needs to be maintained at a temperature of 50°C, which means that hot water above 75°C needs to be supplied externally. In addition, during the hydrogen purification and drying process of the water electrolysis hydrogen production process, a continuous supply of low-temperature chilled water at 7°C is also required.

[0027] Therefore, in order to achieve the above objectives, such as Figures 1 to 2As shown, this disclosure provides a combined cooling and heating system for hydrogen production via water electrolysis, including a water electrolysis module 10, a hydrogen drying module 20, and a heat exchange module 30. The water electrolysis module 10 includes an electrolyzer 11, a first outlet pipe 12, and a first return pipe 13. The first outlet pipe 12 is connected to the outlet end of the electrolyzer 11, and the first return pipe 13 is connected to the inlet end of the electrolyzer 11. The hydrogen drying module 20 includes a purification device 21, a second outlet pipe 22, and a second return pipe 23. The purification device 21 is used to dry the hydrogen produced by the water electrolysis module 10, and the second outlet pipe 22 and the second return pipe 23 are respectively connected to the purification device 21. The first outlet pipe 12, one end away from the electrolytic cell 11, is connected to the first return pipe 13, one end away from the electrolytic cell 11, to form a first heat exchange circuit 200. The second outlet pipe 22, one end away from the purification device 21, is connected to the second return pipe 23, one end away from the purification device 21, to form a second heat exchange circuit 300. The heat exchange module 30 is used to provide heat to the first heat exchange circuit 200 and to provide cooling to the second heat exchange circuit 300.

[0028] Through the above technical solution, during the operation of the water electrolysis module 10, the water flowing out of the electrolysis cell 11 exchanges heat with the heat exchange module 30 through the first water outlet pipe 12. After absorbing heat from the heat exchange module 30, the temperature of the water flow increases, and then enters the electrolysis cell 11 through the first water return pipe 13, thereby increasing the temperature of the electrolysis cell 11 and providing a more suitable temperature environment for the start-up and operation of the electrolysis cell 11, thereby improving the hydrogen production efficiency.

[0029] In addition, the heat exchange module 30 can provide cooling to the hydrogen drying module 20 while generating heat, thereby reducing the temperature of the water after heat exchange with the purification device 21 during the hydrogen drying process. That is, the low-temperature chilled water that needs to be continuously supplied for hydrogen purification and drying meets the cooling requirements during the hydrogen drying process.

[0030] In the above process, the high-temperature water entering the electrolyzer 11 not only utilizes the waste heat of the water electrolysis hydrogen production system, but also eliminates the need for related equipment to cool the hydrogen drying module 20, saving electricity and chilled water, thus reducing operating costs and reducing investment in supporting public works systems.

[0031] It should be noted that, compared with the related technologies that use heat pump units capable of both heating and cooling to heat the water entering the electrolysis cell 11 and cool the water entering the purification device 21 respectively, this solution uses a large temperature difference unit. Therefore, it effectively unifies the cooling and heating processes of the heat exchange module 30, improves the overall energy utilization efficiency of the system, and provides 7°C cold water and 75°C hot water at all times.

[0032] In the above process, the waste heat recovery rate of the electrolytic cell 11 can reach more than 99% waste heat utilization rate.

[0033] In one exemplary embodiment provided in this disclosure, the heat exchange module 30 may include an evaporator, a compressor, a condenser, and an expansion valve, which are connected in series. The first heat exchange circuit 200 is located on the condenser side of the heat exchange module 30, and the second heat exchange circuit 300 is located on the evaporator side of the heat exchange module 30. Thus, during the operation of the heat exchange module 30, the high-temperature and high-pressure refrigerant enters the condenser, releases heat, and condenses into a liquid. The released heat can be transferred to the first heat exchange circuit 200 located on the condenser side, transferring the heat to the hot water in the first return water pipe 13, thereby heating the hot water in the first heat exchange circuit 200. The heated hot water then flows into the electrolytic cell 11 through the first return water pipe 13 to maintain the temperature of the electrolytic cell 11.

[0034] In one embodiment provided in this disclosure, the core component of the heat exchange module 30 is a high-temperature heat pump integrated cooling and heating unit. It employs a high-pressure head ratio compression heat pump, using Freon (R134a) as the working medium, and the integrated heat pump cooling and heating unit has a comprehensive energy efficiency ratio (COP) > 5. A small amount of high-grade energy (green electricity) is input to drive the compressor to rotate at high speed, providing power for the circulation of the working medium. Low-grade heat is recovered from waste heat resources to achieve cooling, while the recovered heat is transferred to high-grade hot water to achieve heating.

[0035] At the same time, the low-temperature and low-pressure refrigerant enters the evaporator and absorbs heat in the evaporator, thereby absorbing the heat of the water in the second water outlet pipe 22 located on one side of the evaporator, realizing the cooling of the water in the second heat exchange circuit 300 to meet the water temperature requirements in the hydrogen drying process.

[0036] To further improve the heat exchange effect between the water and the condenser in the first heat exchange loop 200 and between the second heat exchange loop 300 and the evaporator, in this disclosure, the first outlet pipe 12 and / or the first return pipe 13 can be fitted to the condenser; and the second outlet pipe 22 and / or the second return pipe 23 can be fitted to the evaporator. In other words, by fitting the first outlet pipe 12 and / or the first return pipe 13 to the condenser, the heat exchange area between them can be increased, and the heat transfer path and thermal resistance can be reduced, allowing heat to be transferred from the condenser to the first outlet pipe 12 and / or the first return pipe 13 more quickly and efficiently.

[0037] Similarly, for the heat exchange process between the second outlet pipe 22 and / or the second return pipe 23 and the evaporator, setting the second outlet pipe 22 and / or the second return pipe 23 in close contact with the evaporator can also increase the heat exchange area between the two and reduce the heat transfer path and thermal resistance, so that heat can be transferred to the evaporator more quickly and efficiently by the second outlet pipe 22 and / or the second return pipe 23.

[0038] Furthermore, the first water outlet pipe 12 and / or the first water return pipe 13 may also be wrapped around or wound around the outer periphery of the condenser, and the second water outlet pipe 22 and / or the second water return pipe 23 may be wrapped around or wound around the outer periphery of the evaporator, thereby further increasing the heat exchange area between the two and improving the heat transfer effect.

[0039] To further reduce the energy consumption of the aforementioned combined cooling and heating system used in water electrolysis for hydrogen production, such as Figure 1 As shown, in one embodiment of this disclosure, the combined cooling and heating system for hydrogen production via water electrolysis may further include a photovoltaic module 100, which is electrically connected to the heat exchange module 30 and provides power to the heat exchange module 30. Thus, during the operation of the aforementioned combined cooling and heating system for hydrogen production via water electrolysis, the photovoltaic module 100 can convert solar energy into electrical energy, thereby providing power to the heat exchange module 30 and reducing carbon emissions.

[0040] The aforementioned high-temperature heat pump integrated cooling and heating unit is adapted to fluctuations in green electricity (solar power, wind power) and operates at a load of 30% to 120%.

[0041] Alternatively, in other embodiments provided in this disclosure, the above-mentioned combined cooling and heating system for producing hydrogen by water electrolysis can also be applied to wind power generation scenarios, converting wind energy into electrical energy through wind turbines, and without time limitations, it can also provide a stable power supply for the heat exchange module 30.

[0042] In terms of green energy adaptability, the load regulation and control of the heat pump unit is controlled by a variable throttling device, and it is adapted to a wider load regulation range.

[0043] In the above-mentioned solution provided in this disclosure, the project's heating and cooling requirements and various energy resources are first accurately analyzed. Then, combined with the characteristics of the production process, a highly efficient and integrated coupled energy-saving technology is formed through optimized combination. To ensure reliability and applicability, measures such as start-up heating and energy storage are considered. For example, in one embodiment provided in this disclosure, such as... Figure 1As shown, the combined cooling and heating system for hydrogen production via water electrolysis also includes a hot water tank 40 and a cold water tank 50. The hot water tank 40 is connected to the first outlet pipe 12 and is located between the electrolyzer 11 and the heat exchange module 30. The cold water tank 50 is connected to the second outlet pipe 22 and is located between the purification unit 21 and the heat exchange module 30. By setting up the cold water tank 50 and the hot water tank 40, more green electricity can be consumed during the day when the green electricity supply is sufficient and stored in the cold water tank 50 and the hot water tank 40. When the heat exchange module 30 fails or at night, the heat and cold energy can be supplemented to the heating and cooling network, playing a certain role in energy storage and peak shaving, improving the fault tolerance of the system, and forming a multi-energy coupled and coordinated system of waste heat, green electricity, green hydrogen, heat storage, and cold storage.

[0044] In one embodiment provided in this disclosure, hot water tank 40 and cold water tank 50 are used as energy storage facilities, and the heat storage and cold storage capacity should meet the heat and cold required for the heat exchange module 30 to be shut down for at least one day.

[0045] Optionally, such as Figure 1 As shown, the hot water tank 40 includes a tank body 41 and a heating component 42. The tank body 41 has an internal cavity for containing hot water. The heating component 42 is disposed within the cavity and is capable of heating the hot water within the cavity. When the electrolysis cell 11 module is first started, the temperature of the water flowing out of the electrolysis cell 11 is low, which will cause the temperature of the water returning to the electrolysis cell 11 to not quickly reach the preset temperature. The heating component 42 can be turned on to heat the water in the cavity, and then the heated water is directly replenished into the electrolysis cell 11 through the first return water pipe 13 to ensure a continuous supply of hot water. After the temperature of the water flowing out of the electrolysis cell 11 rises, the heating component 42 is turned off.

[0046] In addition, the heating component 42 installed in the tank 41 can also be used when the heat exchange module 30 fails, to provide heat to the water flowing through the first outlet pipe 12 instead of the heating component 42.

[0047] Similarly, a refrigeration component can be installed in the aforementioned cold water tank 50 to provide cooling for the water flowing out of the second outlet pipe 22, in order to cope with situations such as malfunction of the heat exchange module 30.

[0048] Furthermore, such as Figure 2As shown, the combined cooling and heating system for hydrogen production via water electrolysis can further include a controller 60 and a first temperature sensor 70. The controller 60 is connected to both the first temperature sensor 70 and the heating component 42. The first temperature sensor 70 is located inside the cavity and is used to detect the temperature of the hot water inside the cavity. The controller 60 controls the heating component 42 to turn on or off based on the temperature parameter of the hot water detected by the first temperature sensor 70. During the startup process of the heating component 42, the first temperature sensor 70 can detect the temperature of the water inside the cavity and feed the water temperature parameter back to the controller 60. The controller 60 controls the heating component 42 to turn on or off based on this temperature parameter. Specifically, when the heating component 42 detects that the temperature inside the cavity is lower than a preset temperature, the controller 60 can control the heating component 42 to heat it; when the heating component 42 detects that the temperature inside the cavity is higher than the preset temperature, the controller 60 can control the heating component 42 to stop heating it. This ensures that when the electrolysis cell 11 module starts up, the water temperature flowing out of the cavity meets the temperature maintenance requirements of the electrolysis cell 11.

[0049] Optionally, such as Figure 1 As shown, the combined cooling and heating system for hydrogen production via water electrolysis may further include a first circulation pump 80 and a second circulation pump 90. The first circulation pump 80 is connected to the first outlet pipe 12, and the second circulation pump 90 is connected to the second outlet pipe 22. The first circulation pump 80 provides power for the flow of hot water in the first heat exchange circuit 200, and the second circulation pump 90 provides power for the flow of cold water in the second heat exchange circuit 300, thereby providing an uninterrupted supply of hot water to the electrolyzer 11 and an uninterrupted supply of cold water to the purification unit 21.

[0050] In one exemplary embodiment provided in this disclosure, the hot water supply temperature entering the electrolysis cell 11 via the first return water pipe 13 is greater than 75°C, and the cold water supply temperature entering the purification device 21 via the second return water pipe 23 is less than 7°C.

[0051] Furthermore, the waste heat generated during the hydrogen production process in module 11 of the electrolyzer can also be used for domestic hot water supply, such as for heating. For example, in one embodiment provided in this disclosure, such as... Figure 1As shown, a first external supply branch pipe 130 is formed on the first return water pipe 13. One end of the first external supply branch pipe 130 is connected to the first return water pipe 13, and the other end of the first external supply branch pipe 130 is used to connect to the heating system. A first control valve 131 is provided on the first external supply branch pipe 130, which is used to control the opening and closing of the first external supply branch pipe 130. In actual use, the first control valve 131 on the first external supply branch pipe 130 can be opened to switch the first external supply branch pipe 130 to the connected state. At this time, the hot water flowing out from the outlet of the heat exchange module 30 can enter the heating system through the first external supply branch pipe 130 to achieve heat supply to the user.

[0052] Alternatively, in other embodiments provided in this disclosure, a flow valve may be provided at the outlet end of the electrolytic cell 11. In this way, the flow rate of water flowing into the first outlet pipe 12 can be controlled by the flow valve, thereby providing sufficient heat for maintaining the temperature of the electrolytic cell 11 while discharging the remaining hot water into a waste heat utilization system such as a heating system, thereby improving the utilization rate of the waste heat of the hot water discharged from the electrolytic cell 11.

[0053] Similarly, a first water supply branch pipe 120 is formed on the first water outlet pipe 12. One end of the first water supply branch pipe 120 is connected to the first water outlet pipe 12, and the other end of the first water supply branch pipe 120 is used for system water replenishment. A second control valve 121 is provided on the first water supply branch pipe 120, and the second control valve 121 is used to control the adjustment of the first water supply branch pipe 120. In this way, water can be replenished to the system through the first water supply branch pipe 120 connected to the first water outlet pipe 12 and the second control valve 121 provided on the first water supply branch pipe 120. The water replenished to the system is heated and then flows back into the heating system through the first external supply branch pipe 130, so as to realize the continuous supply of heating system and ensure that the heating temperature is greater than 70°.

[0054] To further control the flow path of the hot water exiting the electrolytic cell 11, in one embodiment provided in this disclosure, such as... Figure 1As shown, the combined cooling and heating system for hydrogen production via water electrolysis can also include a three-way valve. The first outlet pipe 12 includes a main pipe, a first branch pipe, and a second branch pipe. One end of the main pipe is connected to the electrolyzer 11, and the second end of the main pipe is connected to the first interface of the three-way valve. One end of the first branch pipe is connected to the inlet of the hot water tank 40, and the other end of the first branch pipe is connected to the second interface of the three-way valve. One end of the second branch pipe is connected to the outlet of the hot water tank 40, and the other end of the second branch pipe is connected to the third interface of the three-way valve. A first switching valve 14 is provided on the first branch pipe, and a second switching valve 15 is provided on the second branch pipe. The first switching valve 14 and the second switching valve 15 are respectively connected to the controller 60. The controller 60 can control the first switching valve 14 to open and the second switching valve 15 to close when the heating component 42 is turned on, and the controller 60 can control the first switching valve 14 to close and the second switching valve 15 to open when the heating component 42 is turned off. Thus, when the electrolytic cell 11 starts up, the controller 60 can control the heating component 42 to turn on, the first switching valve 14 to turn on, and the second switching valve 15 to turn off. At this time, since the second switching valve 15 is in the closed state, the water flowing out through the first outlet pipe 12 can enter the tank 41 through the first switching valve 14 and be heated by the heating component 42. Under the action of the first circulation pump 80, the heated water in the tank 41 is transported to the electrolytic cell 11 through the first switching valve 14 to maintain the temperature of the electrolytic cell 11. When the heat load of the heat exchange module condenser increases, the controller 60 can control the first switching valve 14 to turn off and the second switching valve 15 to turn on. In this way, the water flowing out of the first outlet pipe 12 can flow directly into the heat exchange module 30 through the second branch pipe and then into the first return water pipe 13 (without flowing through the heat storage tank), thus maintaining the temperature of the electrolytic cell 11.

[0055] To facilitate timely determination of whether the temperature of the hot water flowing out of the first return water pipe 13 is within the relevant temperature range, the combined cooling and heating system for hydrogen production via water electrolysis in this disclosure also includes a second temperature sensor. The second temperature sensor is electrically connected to the controller 60 and is located in the first return water pipe 13 to measure the temperature of the hot water flowing through the first return water pipe 13. The controller 60 can control the opening and closing of the first switching valve 14, the second switching valve 15, and the heating component 42 based on the temperature of the hot water in the first return water pipe 13 measured by the second temperature sensor, so as to replenish heat in a timely manner.

[0056] In the embodiments provided in this disclosure, the chilled water produced by the heat exchange module 30 accounts for >17% of the total chilled water consumption of the device. Therefore, in order to achieve the supply of the remaining chilled water cooling capacity (83%), the combined cooling and heating system applied to water electrolysis for hydrogen production may also include a refrigeration unit for supplying cooling capacity to the system.

[0057] The present invention will be further described below with reference to the embodiments.

[0058] A renewable energy green electricity-to-hydrogen project requires 1.4MW of 75℃ hot water for the 11th stage of the electrolyzer and for plant heating, and 5.3MW of 7℃ chilled water for the hydrogen purification unit 21. To meet the process's hot and chilled water needs, a hot and cold water station was set up within the plant to provide hot and chilled water, along with a high-temperature heat pump integrated heating and cooling unit (heat exchange module 30), producing 1.4MW of hot water and 0.91MW of chilled water as a byproduct, with both heating and cooling loads continuously supplied. The remaining 4.39MW of chilled water is still provided by traditional refrigeration units.

[0059] The combined cooling and heating energy-saving process is divided into two independent cooling and heating loops (i.e., the first heat exchange loop 200 and the second heat exchange loop 300). The heating loop includes: water enters the hot and cold water station from the electrolytic cell 11, is pressurized by the hot water tank 40 and the first circulation pump 80, and then the high-pressure water is sent to the condenser side of the high-temperature heat pump integrated cooling and heating unit to be heated to 75°C and sent out of the station. It is then sent to the user-end electrolytic cell 11 through the hot water supply network (first return water pipe 13) to realize the heating cycle.

[0060] Cooling system: Chilled water return enters the hot and cold water station, and after being pressurized by the cold water tank 50 and the second circulation pump 90, the high-pressure chilled water return is sent to the evaporator side of the high-temperature heat pump integrated cooling and heating unit to be cooled to 7°C and then sent out of the station. Chilled water supply goes through the second return water pipe 23 to the purification unit 21 to provide cold energy for the purification and drying of product hydrogen, while recovering the waste heat in the purification and drying process. Finally, the chilled water returns to the cold water tank 50 to complete the circulation.

[0061] During operation, since there is no residual heat, an electric heating coil (heating component 42) is installed in the hot water tank 40 to enable rapid start-up. Under normal circumstances, the electric heating coil is not in use.

[0062] The project utilizes a wind-solar-green electricity hydrogen production process, requiring the consumption of a significant amount of green electricity. The system is configured with an electric drive, electric heater, 50 cubic meters of cold water tank, and 40 cubic meters of hot water tank for energy storage. Regarding green electricity adaptability, the heat pump unit's load regulation and control are achieved through a variable throttling device, and the system has been adapted to accommodate a wider load regulation range.

[0063] This invention can achieve energy conservation and emission reduction goals. In this example, considering a 5-month heating supply, it reduces steam consumption by 1.85 t / h compared to traditional steam heating methods, thereby reducing carbon emissions by ~1996 tons of CO2 per year.

[0064] The preferred embodiments of this disclosure have been described in detail above with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, this disclosure is not limited to the specific details of the above embodiments. Within the scope of the technical concept of this disclosure, various simple modifications can be made to the technical solutions of this disclosure, and these simple modifications all fall within the protection scope of this disclosure.

[0065] It should also be noted that the various specific technical features described in the above specific embodiments can be combined in any suitable manner without contradiction. In order to avoid unnecessary repetition, this disclosure will not describe the various possible combinations separately.

[0066] Furthermore, various different embodiments of this disclosure can be combined in any way, as long as they do not violate the spirit of this disclosure, they should also be regarded as the content disclosed in this disclosure.

Claims

1. A combined cooling and heating system for hydrogen production via water electrolysis, characterized in that, include: An electrolytic water module, comprising an electrolytic cell, a first outlet pipe, and a first return pipe, wherein the first outlet pipe is connected to the outlet end of the electrolytic cell, and the first return pipe is connected to the inlet end of the electrolytic cell; A hydrogen drying module, comprising a purification device, a second water outlet pipe, and a second water return pipe, wherein the purification device is used to dry the hydrogen generated by the water electrolysis module, and the second water outlet pipe and the second water return pipe are respectively connected to the purification device; The end of the first water outlet pipe away from the electrolytic cell is connected to the end of the first water return pipe away from the electrolytic cell to form a first heat exchange circuit. The end of the second water outlet pipe away from the purification device is connected to the end of the second water return pipe away from the purification device to form a second heat exchange circuit. A heat exchange module, wherein the heat exchange module is used to provide heat to the first heat exchange circuit, and, The heat exchange module is used to provide cooling for the second heat exchange circuit.

2. The combined cooling and heating system for hydrogen production via water electrolysis according to claim 1, characterized in that, The heat exchange module includes an evaporator, a compressor, a condenser, and an expansion valve, wherein the evaporator, the compressor, the condenser, and the expansion valve are connected in series. The first heat exchange circuit is located on the condenser side of the heat exchange module, and the second heat exchange circuit is located on the evaporator side of the heat exchange module.

3. The combined cooling and heating system for hydrogen production via water electrolysis according to claim 2, characterized in that, The first outlet pipe and / or the first return pipe are fitted together with the condenser. The second outlet pipe and / or the second return pipe are fitted together with the evaporator.

4. The combined cooling and heating system for hydrogen production via water electrolysis according to claim 1, characterized in that, The combined cooling and heating system for hydrogen production via water electrolysis also includes a hot water tank and a cold water tank. The hot water tank is connected to the first outlet pipe and is located between the electrolyzer and the heat exchange module. The cold water tank is connected to the second water outlet pipe and is located between the purification device and the heat exchange module.

5. The combined cooling and heating system for hydrogen production via water electrolysis according to claim 4, characterized in that, The hot water tank includes a tank body and a heating component. The tank body has an interior cavity for containing hot water. The heating component is disposed within the cavity and is capable of heating the hot water located within the cavity.

6. The combined cooling and heating system for hydrogen production via water electrolysis according to claim 5, characterized in that, The combined cooling and heating system for hydrogen production via water electrolysis further includes a controller and a first temperature sensor. The controller is connected to the first temperature sensor and the heating component. The first temperature sensor is located inside the cavity and is used to detect the temperature of the hot water inside the cavity. The controller is used to control the heating component to turn on or off based on the temperature parameter of the hot water detected by the first temperature sensor.

7. The combined cooling and heating system for hydrogen production via water electrolysis according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, The combined cooling and heating system for hydrogen production via water electrolysis also includes a first circulation pump and a second circulation pump, wherein the first circulation pump is connected to the first outlet pipe and the second circulation pump is connected to the second outlet pipe.

8. The combined cooling and heating system for hydrogen production by water electrolysis according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, The hot water supplied to the electrolytic cell via the first return water pipe has a temperature greater than 75°C, and the cold water supplied to the purification device via the second return water pipe has a temperature less than 7°C.

9. The combined cooling and heating system for hydrogen production by water electrolysis according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, The combined cooling and heating system for hydrogen production by water electrolysis also includes a photovoltaic module, which is electrically connected to the heat exchange module and is used to provide power to the heat exchange module.

10. The combined cooling and heating system for hydrogen production by water electrolysis according to any one of claims 1-6, characterized in that, A first external supply branch pipe is formed on the first return water pipe. One end of the first external supply branch pipe is connected to the first return water pipe, and the other end of the first external supply branch pipe is used to connect to the heating system. A first control valve is provided on the first external supply branch pipe, and the first control valve is used to control the opening and closing of the first external supply branch pipe; A first water supply branch pipe is formed on the first water outlet pipe. One end of the first water supply branch pipe is connected to the first water outlet pipe, and the other end of the first water supply branch pipe is used for system water supply. A second control valve is installed on the first water supply branch pipe, which is used to control the adjustment of the first water supply branch pipe.

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