Alkaline water electrolysis hydrogen production system
By using a bidirectional pump to actively regulate the electrolyte flow in an alkaline water electrolysis hydrogen production system, the problem of passive regulation by the balance tube was solved, and the dynamic pressure, liquid level and electrolyte concentration of the system were optimized, thereby improving the system's response capability and stability.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Utility models(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-04-10
- Publication Date
- 2026-03-13
AI Technical Summary
In existing alkaline water electrolysis hydrogen production systems, the balance tube can only passively adjust the pressure, liquid level, and electrolyte density, making it difficult to meet the dynamic priority adjustment requirements and resulting in system adjustment difficulties.
A bidirectional pump is used to actively transport the electrolyte in the balance tube. By controlling the direction and flow rate of the electrolyte, the pressure, liquid level and electrolyte concentration can be dynamically adjusted.
It achieves active balance control of pressure, liquid level and electrolyte concentration, improving the system's dynamic response capability and stability.
Smart Images
Figure CN223991144U_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This utility model relates to an alkaline water electrolysis hydrogen production system. Background Technology
[0002] Alkaline water electrolysis hydrogen production systems are a core component of the hydrogen economy, driving the transition to clean energy through water electrolysis.
[0003] An alkaline water electrolysis hydrogen production system includes an alkaline electrolyzer, an oxygen separator, a hydrogen separator, and gas-liquid pipelines connecting these devices. During operation, the alkaline water electrolysis hydrogen production system needs to be controlled to achieve the following objectives: maintaining pressure balance within the system; maintaining a certain liquid level in the oxygen and hydrogen separators; and maintaining an appropriate electrolyte density, thereby ensuring efficient, safe, and stable electrolysis reactions. To this end, a balance pipe is installed between the oxygen and hydrogen separators, connecting them to allow the electrolytes within both to flow under the influence of gas pressure and liquid gravity.
[0004] However, the aforementioned balancing pipe can only regulate pressure, liquid level, and electrolyte density in a passive and coupled manner. Furthermore, conflicts may exist between these multiple objectives. When system adjustments are needed to prioritize one of the objectives, the passive coupling characteristic of the balancing pipe makes it difficult to handle dynamically prioritized adjustment requirements.
[0005] It is against the above background that this utility model was proposed. Utility Model Content
[0006] This invention proposes an alkaline water electrolysis hydrogen production system, comprising: at least one electrolyzer, each electrolyzer including a cathode outlet and an anode outlet; at least one hydrogen separator, each hydrogen separator connected to the cathode outlet of one of the electrolyzers; and at least one oxygen separator, each oxygen separator connected to the anode outlet of one of the electrolyzers. The alkaline water electrolysis hydrogen production system further includes a communication mechanism disposed between the at least one hydrogen separator and the at least one oxygen separator, the communication mechanism being configured to enable electrolyte transport between any two of the at least one hydrogen separator and the at least one oxygen separator in any direction.
[0007] This alkaline water electrolysis hydrogen production system achieves active balance control of pressure, liquid level, and electrolyte concentration by enabling electrolyte transport between any two separators in any direction.
[0008] In one embodiment, the communication mechanism includes: at least one balance pipe connected between the at least one hydrogen separator and the at least one oxygen separator; and at least one bidirectional pump disposed in the at least one balance pipe.
[0009] In one embodiment, the alkaline water electrolysis hydrogen production system includes a hydrogen separator and an oxygen separator, and the communication mechanism includes: a balance pipe connected between the hydrogen separator and the oxygen separator; and a single bidirectional pump disposed in the balance pipe.
[0010] In one embodiment, the alkaline water electrolysis hydrogen production system includes: a group of first hydrogen separators and a group of first oxygen separators; and a group of second hydrogen separators and second oxygen separators, wherein the communication mechanism includes: a first balance pipe connected between the first hydrogen separator and the first oxygen separator; a first three-way valve disposed in the first balance pipe; a second balance pipe connected between the second hydrogen separator and the second oxygen separator; a second three-way valve disposed in the second balance pipe; a third balance pipe connected between the first three-way valve and the second three-way valve; and a bidirectional pump disposed in the third balance pipe.
[0011] In one embodiment, the alkaline water electrolysis hydrogen production system includes: a group of first hydrogen separators and a first oxygen separator; a group of second hydrogen separators and a second oxygen separator; and a group of third hydrogen separators and a third oxygen separator, wherein the communication mechanism includes: a first balance pipe connected between the first hydrogen separator and the first oxygen separator; a first three-way valve disposed in the first balance pipe; a second balance pipe connected between the second hydrogen separator and the second oxygen separator; a four-way valve disposed in the second balance pipe; a third balance pipe connected between the third hydrogen separator and the third oxygen separator; a second three-way valve disposed in the third balance pipe; a fourth balance pipe connected between the first three-way valve and the four-way valve; a first bidirectional pump disposed in the fourth balance pipe; a fifth balance pipe connected between the four-way valve and the second three-way valve; and a second bidirectional pump disposed in the fifth balance pipe.
[0012] In one embodiment, the alkaline water electrolysis hydrogen production system further includes a deionized water replenishment system connected to the hydrogen separator.
[0013] In one embodiment, the electrolyzer further includes a liquid inlet, and the alkaline water electrolysis hydrogen production system further includes an alkaline tank configured to supply electrolyte to the liquid inlet of the electrolyzer.
[0014] In one embodiment, the alkali tank is connected to the inlet of the electrolytic cell via an electrolyte circulation pump, or the alkali tank is directly connected to the inlet of the electrolytic cell.
[0015] In one embodiment, the bidirectional pump is configured to not block fluid communication within the balance pipe during periods of inactivity.
[0016] In one embodiment, the bidirectional pump is configured with a bypass valve that is closed when the bidirectional pump is operating and open when the bidirectional pump stops operating.
[0017] Generally speaking, the various embodiments of this invention can be combined and coupled in any possible manner within the scope of this invention. These and other aspects, features, and / or advantages of this invention will become apparent and will be elucidated with reference to the embodiments described below. Attached Figure Description
[0018] Embodiments of the present invention will be described by way of example only with reference to the following accompanying drawings, in which:
[0019] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an alkaline water electrolysis hydrogen production system according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0020] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of an alkaline water electrolysis hydrogen production system according to another embodiment of the present invention; and
[0021] Figures 3a-3l The diagram is based on Figure 2 The diagram illustrates various operating modes of the alkaline water electrolysis hydrogen production system of the embodiment shown.
[0022] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of an alkaline water electrolysis hydrogen production system according to another embodiment of the present invention.
[0023] It should be understood that the accompanying drawings only illustrate certain specific embodiments of the present invention and should not be construed as limiting other possible embodiments falling within the scope of the appended claims. The scope of protection of the present invention is defined only by the appended claims. Detailed Implementation
[0024] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of an alkaline water electrolysis hydrogen production system according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0025] Reference Figure 1 The alkaline water electrolysis hydrogen production system includes an electrolyzer 10, a hydrogen separator 20, an oxygen separator 30, a cooling system 40, an electrolyte circulation pump 50, a deionized water replenishment system 60, and an alkaline tank 70.
[0026] Electrolytic cell 10 is the core device of the electrolysis reaction, used to electrolyze water to produce hydrogen and oxygen under the action of direct current. Electrolytic cell 10 includes an inlet 10a, a cathode outlet 10b, and an anode outlet 10c. Alkaline electrolyte flows into the electrolytic cell 10 through the inlet 10a and is electrolyzed to produce hydrogen and oxygen under the action of direct current. The generated hydrogen, along with a portion of the electrolyte, flows out of the electrolytic cell 10 through the cathode outlet 10b, and the generated oxygen, along with a portion of the electrolyte, flows out of the electrolytic cell 10 through the anode outlet 10c.
[0027] A hydrogen separator 20 is configured to separate hydrogen from a gas-liquid mixture flowing from a cathode outlet 10b. The hydrogen separator 20 includes a gas-liquid mixture inlet 20a, a hydrogen outlet 20b, and an electrolyte outlet 20c. The gas-liquid mixture inlet 20a is located approximately on the side of the hydrogen separator 20, the hydrogen outlet 20b is located approximately at the top of the hydrogen separator 20, and the electrolyte outlet 20c is located approximately at the bottom of the hydrogen separator 20. The cathode outlet 10b of the electrolyzer 10 is connected via a pipe to the gas-liquid mixture inlet 20a of the hydrogen separator 20. The hydrogen separated by the hydrogen separator 20 flows out through the hydrogen outlet 20b and then flows into a mixing tower and a water separator (not shown) for further removal of residual electrolyte and impurities, dehydration, etc., ultimately outputting high-purity hydrogen. The electrolyte outlet 20c of the hydrogen separator 20 is connected via a pipe to the inlet 10a of the electrolyzer 10. Those skilled in the art will understand that a certain amount of electrolyte is temporarily stored in the hydrogen separator 20, and in addition, electrolyte from the cathode outlet 10b of the electrolytic cell 10 is continuously injected. This electrolyte is then transported into the electrolytic cell 10, ensuring that the electrodes of the electrolytic cell 10 are always immersed in the electrolyte to prevent dry burning. Furthermore, the electrolyte temporarily stored in the hydrogen separator 20 can also provide preliminary cooling for the gas-liquid mixture from the electrolytic cell 10.
[0028] An oxygen separator 30 is configured to separate oxygen from a gas-liquid mixture flowing from an anode outlet 10c. The oxygen separator 30 includes a gas-liquid mixture inlet 30a, an oxygen outlet 30b, and an electrolyte outlet 30c. The gas-liquid mixture inlet 30a is generally located on the side of the oxygen separator 30, the oxygen outlet 30b is generally located at the top of the oxygen separator 30, and the electrolyte outlet 30c is generally located at the bottom of the oxygen separator 30. The anode outlet 10c of the electrolyzer 10 is connected via a pipe to the gas-liquid mixture inlet 30a of the oxygen separator 30. The oxygen separated by the oxygen separator 30 flows out through the oxygen outlet 30b and then flows into a mixing tower and a water separator (not shown) for further removal of residual electrolyte and impurities, removal of moisture, etc., ultimately outputting high-purity oxygen. Alternatively, the oxygen separated by the oxygen separator 30 can be directly discharged into the atmosphere through the oxygen outlet 30b. Similarly, a certain amount of electrolyte is temporarily stored in the oxygen separator 30, and electrolyte from the anode outlet 10c of the electrolytic cell 10 is continuously injected. This electrolyte is then transported into the electrolytic cell 10, ensuring that the electrodes of the electrolytic cell 10 are always immersed in the electrolyte to prevent dry burning. In addition, the electrolyte temporarily stored in the oxygen separator 30 can also provide preliminary cooling for the gas-liquid mixture from the electrolytic cell 10.
[0029] like Figure 1 As shown, the electrolyte outlet 20c of the hydrogen separator 20 and the electrolyte outlet 30c of the oxygen separator 30 can be connected to a common pipe 80, which is connected to the inlet 10a of the electrolytic cell 10. It will be understood that this invention is not limited to the above-described configuration. For example, the electrolyte outlet 20c of the hydrogen separator 20 and the electrolyte outlet 30c of the oxygen separator 30 can be connected to the inlet 10a of the electrolytic cell 10 via separate pipes.
[0030] It will be understood that the electrolytic reaction within the electrolytic cell 10 generates a large amount of heat, causing the electrolyte temperature to rise. Specifically, the temperature of the gas-liquid mixture flowing out of the cathode outlet 10b and anode outlet 10c of the electrolytic cell 10 may reach as high as 95°C, and even after preliminary cooling through connecting pipes and gas-liquid separators, the electrolyte temperature may still be as high as 85°C. Therefore, a cooling system 40 can be installed in the aforementioned common pipe 80. This cooling system 40 is configured to cool the electrolyte flowing through it, for example, to reduce the electrolyte temperature to 60°C, after which the cooled electrolyte flows back into the electrolytic cell 10 for the electrolytic reaction. This helps maintain the optimal operating temperature of the electrolytic cell 10, prevents material corrosion of the electrolytic cell components caused by high temperatures, and optimizes overall performance.
[0031] The cooling system 40 may include a radiator 41 and a fan 42. The radiator 41 typically has a finned tube configuration and is configured to transfer heat from the high-temperature electrolyte to the ambient air via heat exchange. The fan 42 is disposed adjacent to the radiator 41 and is configured to force airflow through the fins of the radiator 41 to enhance convective cooling efficiency.
[0032] An electrolyte circulation pump 50 can also be installed in the aforementioned common pipeline 80. The electrolyte circulation pump 50 is configured to drive the electrolyte to circulate between the electrolytic cell 10, the hydrogen separator 20, the oxygen separator 30, and the cooling system 40. Specifically, the electrolyte circulation pump 50 can draw high-temperature electrolyte from the outlets 10b and 10c of the electrolytic cell, allowing it to flow through the hydrogen separator 20, the oxygen separator 30, the cooling system 40, etc., and then be reinjected into the inlet 10a of the electrolytic cell 10, forming a closed-loop circulation. This ensures that the electrolyte continuously flows through the electrolytic cell 10 and is recycled, providing sufficient OH- for the electrode reactions. - The combination of ions and water also avoids localized overheating or uneven electrolyte concentration, ensuring a uniform reaction.
[0033] The main function of the deionized water replenishment system 60 is to replenish the electrolysis reaction with deionized water (also known as pure water) to compensate for the water consumed during electrolysis and maintain the electrolyte concentration and system level balance. The deionized water replenishment system 60 may include a deionized water tank 61 and a water pump 62. The deionized water tank 61 is used to store high-purity water that has undergone deionization treatment, preventing impurities (such as Ca2+, Mg2+) from entering the electrolyte and causing scaling or electrode poisoning. The water pump 62 is located in the outlet pipe of the deionized water tank 61 and is configured to deliver the deionized water to the designated location in the system. Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, a deionized water replenishment system 60 is located near the hydrogen separator 20. A water pump 62 is configured to deliver deionized water to the hydrogen separator 20 for mixing with the electrolyte temporarily stored in the hydrogen separator 20. The liquid level in the hydrogen separator 20 directly reflects the water consumption of the electrolysis reaction. The replenishment point is located here, allowing for rapid response to level drops via a level sensor, precisely replenishing water and maintaining a dual balance of liquid level and electrolyte concentration. Furthermore, the electrolyte flow rate within the hydrogen separator 20 is relatively low; injecting deionized water here prolongs the mixing time, ensuring thorough and uniform mixing of water and electrolyte, and preventing localized electrolyte concentration dilution or concentration gradients. Additionally, the electrolyte temperature in the hydrogen separator 20 is relatively high; injecting low-temperature deionized water quickly lowers the mixed solution temperature, reducing the thermal load on the downstream cooling system 40.
[0034] Alkali tank 70 is configured to store alkaline electrolyte and supply the stored alkaline electrolyte (such as KOH or NaOH solution) to the electrolytic cell. Figure 1In the illustrated embodiment, the alkali tank 70 is connected via a branch pipe to the inlet of the electrolyte circulation pump 50, thereby indirectly connecting to the inlet 10a of the electrolyzer 10, ensuring that the replenished electrolyte is distributed throughout the system. Alternatively, the alkali tank 70 can be directly connected to the inlet 10a of the electrolyzer 10 via a branch pipe. By connecting the deionized water replenishment system 60 to the hydrogen separator 20 and the alkali tank 70 to the inlet of the electrolyte circulation pump 50, precise concentration control and efficient thermal management are achieved, significantly improving the stability, safety, and energy efficiency of the alkaline water electrolysis hydrogen production system.
[0035] The aforementioned alkaline water electrolysis hydrogen production system also includes a balance pipe 90 connecting the hydrogen separator 20 and the oxygen separator 30. This balance pipe 90 can be formed in the form of a U-tube and is configured to connect the liquid phase spaces of the hydrogen separator 20 and the oxygen separator 30, allowing the electrolytes within the two separators to flow between them under the influence of gas pressure and liquid gravity. The balance pipe 90 is typically made of high-temperature and corrosion-resistant materials (such as 316L stainless steel, nickel-based alloys, or PTFE-lined pipes).
[0036] The water electrolysis reaction in electrolyzer 10 is: 2H₂O → 2H₂↑ + O₂↑. From this equation, it can be seen that when 1 volume of oxygen is generated at the anode, 2 volumes of hydrogen will be generated at the cathode. This will create a pressure difference between the anode and cathode sides. If this pressure difference is too large, it may cause safety hazards. The aforementioned balance pipe 90 connects the liquid phase space of the hydrogen separator 20 and the oxygen separator 30, allowing the electrolyte in the higher-pressure separator to flow to the lower-pressure separator (assuming the liquid levels are basically the same), thus balancing the pressure. Furthermore, the balance pipe 90 can also balance the liquid level. Specifically, under basically the same pressure, the electrolyte in the separator with the higher liquid level can flow to the separator with the lower liquid level. Further, the balance pipe 90 can also balance the electrolyte concentration. Specifically, the electrolyte in the higher-concentration separator can diffuse into the lower-concentration separator. However, the pressure, liquid level, and electrolyte concentration balancing function of the balance pipe 90 is passive. In other words, the electrolyte on both sides of the balance tube 90 can only flow from the side with higher pressure to the side with lower pressure, from the side with higher liquid level to the side with lower liquid level, and diffuse from the side with higher concentration to the side with lower concentration, but cannot flow in the opposite direction or diffuse.
[0037] exist Figure 1In the illustrated embodiment, the alkaline water electrolysis hydrogen production system further includes a bidirectional pump 100 disposed in the balance pipe 90. The bidirectional pump 100 is a device capable of delivering electrolyte in both directions; it achieves bidirectional transfer of electrolyte between the hydrogen separator 20 and the oxygen separator 30 by changing the pump's direction of rotation. The bidirectional pump 100 can be a bidirectional gear pump, a bidirectional rotor pump, a bidirectional plunger pump, a bidirectional centrifugal pump, or any other suitable type of bidirectional pump.
[0038] During the operation of the alkaline water electrolysis hydrogen production system, the bidirectional pump 100 actively regulates the flow direction and flow rate of the electrolyte to achieve dynamic priority control of pressure, liquid level, and electrolyte concentration, significantly improving the system's dynamic response capability. In other words, the bidirectional pump 100 can operate in response to the highest priority target among multiple control objectives, without being limited by other control objectives, in order to achieve that target as quickly as possible. For example, if the liquid level in the hydrogen separator 20 is too low, even if the pressure inside the hydrogen separator 20 is high (causing the electrolyte in the hydrogen separator 20 to potentially flow into the oxygen separator 30 through the balance pipe 90 without external force), the bidirectional pump 100 can still force the electrolyte in the oxygen separator 30 to be transported to the hydrogen separator 20, prioritizing the solution to the problem of the low liquid level in the hydrogen separator 20. Other application scenarios for the bidirectional pump 100 are also foreseeable by those skilled in the art. It will be understood that the bidirectional pump 100 can be configured to not block fluid communication within the balance pipe 90 during periods of inactivity, thereby allowing passive fluid flow between the hydrogen separator 20 and the oxygen separator 30. In an alternative embodiment, the bidirectional pump 100 may be equipped with a bypass valve (not shown). This bypass valve is configured to close when the bidirectional pump 100 is operating, thereby relying on the bidirectional pump 100 for active regulation; and to open when the bidirectional pump 100 stops operating, thereby relying on the balance pipe 90 for passive balancing control.
[0039] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of an alkaline water electrolysis hydrogen production system according to another embodiment of the present invention. For the sake of simplicity, Figure 2 Only the hydrogen separator and oxygen separator of the alkaline water electrolysis hydrogen production system and the fluid communication mechanism between them are shown. Those skilled in the art will understand that this alkaline water electrolysis hydrogen production system also includes components such as an electrolyzer, cooling system, electrolyte circulation pump, deionized water replenishment system, and alkali tank, and the connections between them are as follows... Figure 1 Similar to what is shown.
[0040] like Figure 2As shown, the alkaline water electrolysis hydrogen production system includes a group of first hydrogen separators 21 and first oxygen separators 31, and a group of second hydrogen separators 22 and second oxygen separators 32. It will be understood that the alkaline water electrolysis hydrogen production system may also include two alkaline electrolyzers connected in parallel, namely a first electrolyzer and a second electrolyzer. The cathode outlet of the first electrolyzer is connected to the first hydrogen separator 21, and the anode outlet is connected to the first oxygen separator 31. The cathode outlet of the second electrolyzer is connected to the second hydrogen separator 22, and the anode outlet is connected to the second oxygen separator 32.
[0041] The alkaline water electrolysis hydrogen production system also includes a communication mechanism between the four separators. Specifically, this communication mechanism includes a first balance pipe 91 connecting the first hydrogen separator 21 and the first oxygen separator 31, a first three-way valve 111 disposed in the first balance pipe 91, a second balance pipe 92 connecting the second hydrogen separator 22 and the second oxygen separator 32, a second three-way valve 112 disposed in the second balance pipe 92, a third balance pipe 93 connecting the first three-way valve 111 and the second three-way valve 112, and a bidirectional pump 101 disposed in the third balance pipe 93. Through this communication mechanism, electrolyte transport between any two of the four separators in any direction can be achieved. The following describes the process in conjunction with... Figures 3a-3l This will be explained in detail.
[0042] Figures 3a-3l The diagram is based on Figure 2 The diagram illustrates various operating modes of the alkaline water electrolysis hydrogen production system of the embodiment shown.
[0043] exist Figure 3a In the figure, the first three-way valve 111 connects the fluid transmission between the first oxygen separator 31 and the bidirectional pump 101, and the second three-way valve 112 connects the fluid transmission between the bidirectional pump 101 and the second hydrogen separator 22. The bidirectional pump 101 operates to deliver the electrolyte in the first oxygen separator 31 to the second hydrogen separator 22, as shown by the red arrow in the figure.
[0044] exist Figure 3b In this configuration, the first three-way valve 111 connects the fluid transmission between the first oxygen separator 31 and the bidirectional pump 101, and the second three-way valve 112 connects the fluid transmission between the bidirectional pump 101 and the second hydrogen separator 22. The bidirectional pump 101 is operated to deliver the electrolyte in the second hydrogen separator 22 to the first oxygen separator 31.
[0045] exist Figure 3cIn this process, the first three-way valve 111 connects the fluid transmission between the first hydrogen separator 21 and the bidirectional pump 101, and the second three-way valve 112 connects the fluid transmission between the bidirectional pump 101 and the second oxygen separator 32. The bidirectional pump 101 is operated to deliver the electrolyte in the second oxygen separator 32 to the first hydrogen separator 21.
[0046] exist Figure 3d In this process, the first three-way valve 111 connects the fluid transmission between the first hydrogen separator 21 and the bidirectional pump 101, and the second three-way valve 112 connects the fluid transmission between the bidirectional pump 101 and the second oxygen separator 32. The bidirectional pump 101 is operated to deliver the electrolyte in the first hydrogen separator 21 to the second oxygen separator 32.
[0047] exist Figure 3e In this configuration, the first three-way valve 111 connects the fluid transmission between the first oxygen separator 31 and the bidirectional pump 101, and the second three-way valve 112 connects the fluid transmission between the bidirectional pump 101 and the second oxygen separator 32. The bidirectional pump 101 is operated to deliver the electrolyte in the first oxygen separator 31 to the second oxygen separator 32.
[0048] exist Figure 3f In this configuration, the first three-way valve 111 connects the fluid transmission between the first hydrogen separator 21 and the bidirectional pump 101, and the second three-way valve 112 connects the fluid transmission between the bidirectional pump 101 and the second hydrogen separator 22. The bidirectional pump 101 is operated to deliver the electrolyte in the first hydrogen separator 21 to the second hydrogen separator 22.
[0049] exist Figure 3g In this configuration, the first three-way valve 111 connects the fluid transmission between the first oxygen separator 31 and the bidirectional pump 101, and the second three-way valve 112 connects the fluid transmission between the bidirectional pump 101 and the second oxygen separator 32. The bidirectional pump 101 is operated to deliver the electrolyte in the second oxygen separator 32 to the first oxygen separator 31.
[0050] exist Figure 3h In this configuration, the first three-way valve 111 connects the fluid transmission between the first hydrogen separator 21 and the bidirectional pump 101, and the second three-way valve 112 connects the fluid transmission between the bidirectional pump 101 and the second hydrogen separator 22. The bidirectional pump 101 is operated to deliver the electrolyte in the second hydrogen separator 22 to the first hydrogen separator 21.
[0051] exist Figure 3i In this configuration, the first three-way valve 111 connects the fluid transfer between the first hydrogen separator 21 and the first oxygen separator 31. At this time, the bidirectional pump 101 may not operate, allowing the electrolyte in the first oxygen separator 31 to flow to the first hydrogen separator 21 via the first balance pipe 91.
[0052] exist Figure 3j In this configuration, the second three-way valve 112 connects the fluid transfer between the second hydrogen separator 22 and the second oxygen separator 32. At this time, the bidirectional pump 101 may not operate, allowing the electrolyte in the second oxygen separator 32 to flow to the second hydrogen separator 22 via the second balance pipe 92.
[0053] exist Figure 3k In this configuration, the first three-way valve 111 connects the fluid transfer between the first hydrogen separator 21 and the first oxygen separator 31. At this time, the bidirectional pump 101 may not operate, allowing the electrolyte in the first hydrogen separator 21 to flow to the first oxygen separator 31 via the first balance pipe 91.
[0054] exist Figure 3l In this configuration, the second three-way valve 112 connects the fluid transfer between the second hydrogen separator 22 and the second oxygen separator 32. At this time, the bidirectional pump 101 may not operate, allowing the electrolyte in the second hydrogen separator 22 to flow to the second oxygen separator 32 via the second balance pipe 92.
[0055] The various operating modes of the alkaline water electrolysis hydrogen production system have been described in detail above. By switching between these multiple operating modes, the alkaline water electrolysis hydrogen production system can achieve various control objectives. Furthermore, the large number of separators in this embodiment provides greater control flexibility.
[0056] Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of an alkaline water electrolysis hydrogen production system according to another embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4As shown, the alkaline water electrolysis hydrogen production system includes three sets of hydrogen-oxygen separators connected in parallel: a first hydrogen separator 21 and a first oxygen separator 31; a second hydrogen separator 22 and a second oxygen separator 32; and a third hydrogen separator 23 and a third oxygen separator 33. The alkaline water electrolysis hydrogen production system also includes a communication mechanism disposed between the above six separators. Specifically, the communication mechanism includes a first balance pipe 91 connected between the first hydrogen separator 21 and the first oxygen separator 31, a first three-way valve 111 disposed in the first balance pipe 91, a second balance pipe 92 connected between the second hydrogen separator 22 and the second oxygen separator 32, a four-way valve 113 disposed in the second balance pipe 92, a third balance pipe 93 connected between the third hydrogen separator 23 and the third oxygen separator 33, a second three-way valve 112 disposed in the third balance pipe 93, a fourth balance pipe 94 connected between the first three-way valve 111 and the four-way valve 113, a first bidirectional pump 101 disposed in the fourth balance pipe 94, a fifth balance pipe 95 connected between the four-way valve 113 and the second three-way valve 112, and a second bidirectional pump 102 disposed in the fifth balance pipe 95. Through this communication mechanism, electrolyte delivery in any direction between any two of the six separators can be achieved, thereby realizing active balance control.
[0057] It will be understood that when an alkaline water electrolysis hydrogen production system includes more sets of hydrogen separators and oxygen separators, the communication mechanism between them can be deduced accordingly. Therefore, this invention is not limited to... Figures 1-4 The specific embodiment shown can be extended to an alkaline water electrolysis hydrogen production system with more sets of hydrogen and oxygen separators. This alkaline water electrolysis hydrogen production system includes a communication mechanism disposed between multiple sets of hydrogen and oxygen separators. This communication mechanism may include components such as a balance pipe, a bidirectional pump disposed within the balance pipe, and optional multi-way valves, which are interconnected to enable electrolyte delivery between any two separators in any direction.
[0058] Furthermore, the connecting mechanism of the alkaline water electrolysis hydrogen production system according to this utility model is not limited to the embodiment above, which includes a balance pipe and a bidirectional pump. Alternatively, the connecting mechanism may also include a multi-way valve (such as a four-way valve or a five-way valve), a unidirectional pump (or a common centrifugal pump), and connecting pipes, which combine to form a matrix network for electrolyte delivery. The multi-way valve achieves forward or reverse flow by switching valve positions, and the unidirectional pump, in conjunction with the valve, achieves bidirectional control. Those skilled in the art can also anticipate other implementations of the connecting mechanism.
[0059] The alkaline water electrolysis hydrogen production system according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a communication mechanism disposed between a hydrogen separator and an oxygen separator group. This communication mechanism realizes the active balance control function of pressure, liquid level and electrolyte concentration by realizing the electrolyte transport between any two separators in any direction.
[0060] Although the present invention has been described in conjunction with the specific embodiments described above, it should not be construed as being limited in any way to the examples presented. The scope of the present invention is defined by the appended claims. In the context of the claims, the terms "comprising" or "including" do not exclude other possible elements or steps. Furthermore, references such as "a" or "an" should not be construed as excluding multiple elements. The use of reference numerals for elements shown in the figures in the claims should also not be construed as limiting the scope of the present invention. Moreover, various features mentioned in different claims may be advantageously combined, and mentioning these features in different claims does not preclude the possibility and advantage of such combinations. Furthermore, the terms "first," "second," "third," "fourth," etc., used in the present invention are merely for distinguishing related components and are not intended to assign any attribute of priority. Additionally, directional terms such as "upper," "lower," "left," "right," "inner," and "outer" are defined relative to the indicated orientation of the components in the figures; it should be understood that these directional terms are relative concepts and may change accordingly depending on the orientation of the components in the figures.
Claims
1. An alkaline water electrolysis hydrogen generation system comprising: at least one electrolyzer, each electrolyzer comprising a cathode outlet and an anode outlet; at least one hydrogen separator, each hydrogen separator connected to the cathode outlet of one of the electrolyzers; and at least one oxygen separator, each oxygen separator connected to the anode outlet of one of the electrolyzers, characterized in that the alkaline water electrolysis hydrogen generation system further comprises a communication mechanism disposed between the at least one hydrogen separator and the at least one oxygen separator, the communication mechanism configured to enable electrolyte transfer between any two of the at least one hydrogen separator and the at least one oxygen separator in either direction.
2. The hydrogen generation system by alkaline electrolysis of water according to claim 1, characterized in that, The communication mechanism comprises: at least one balancing pipe connected between the at least one hydrogen separator and the at least one oxygen separator; and at least one bidirectional pump disposed in the at least one balancing pipe.
3. The hydrogen generation system by alkaline electrolysis of water according to claim 2, characterized in that, The alkaline water electrolysis hydrogen generation system comprises one hydrogen separator and one oxygen separator, the communication mechanism comprises: a balancing pipe connected between the hydrogen separator and the oxygen separator; and a single bidirectional pump disposed in the balancing pipe.
4. The hydrogen generation system by alkaline electrolysis of water according to claim 2, characterized by The alkaline water electrolysis hydrogen generation system comprises: a first set of hydrogen separators and oxygen separators; and a second set of hydrogen separators and oxygen separators, wherein the communication mechanism comprises: a first balancing pipe connected between the first hydrogen separators and the first oxygen separators; a first three-way valve disposed in the first balancing pipe; a second balancing pipe connected between the second hydrogen separators and the second oxygen separators; a second three-way valve disposed in the second balancing pipe; a third balancing pipe connected between the first three-way valve and the second three-way valve; and a bidirectional pump disposed in the third balancing pipe.
5. The hydrogen generation system by alkaline electrolysis of water according to claim 2, characterized by The alkaline water electrolysis hydrogen generation system comprises: a first set of hydrogen separators and oxygen separators; a second set of hydrogen separators and oxygen separators; and a third set of hydrogen separators and oxygen separators, wherein the communication mechanism comprises: a first balancing pipe connected between the first hydrogen separators and the first oxygen separators; a first three-way valve disposed in the first balancing pipe; a second balancing pipe connected between the second hydrogen separators and the second oxygen separators; a four-way valve disposed in the second balancing pipe; a third balancing pipe connected between the third hydrogen separators and the third oxygen separators; a second three-way valve disposed in the third balancing pipe; a fourth balancing pipe connected between the first three-way valve and the four-way valve; a first bidirectional pump disposed in the fourth balancing pipe; a fifth balancing pipe connected between the four-way valve and the second three-way valve; and a second bidirectional pump disposed in the fifth balancing pipe.
6. The hydrogen generation system by alkaline electrolysis of water according to any one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that, The alkaline water electrolysis hydrogen generation system further comprises a deionized water replenishment system connected to the hydrogen separator.
7. The hydrogen generation system by alkaline electrolysis of water according to claim 6, characterized in that, The electrolyzer further comprises a liquid inlet, the alkaline water electrolysis hydrogen generation system further comprises a caustic tank configured to supply electrolyte to the liquid inlet of the electrolyzer.
8. The hydrogen generation system by alkaline electrolysis of water according to claim 7, characterized in that, The caustic tank is connected to the inlet of the electrolytic cell via an electrolyte circulation pump, or the caustic tank is directly connected to the inlet of the electrolytic cell.
9. The hydrogen generation system by alkaline electrolysis of water according to any one of claims 2-5, characterized in that, The bidirectional pump is configured to not block the fluid communication in the balance pipe during the stop operation.
10. The hydrogen generation system by alkaline electrolysis of water according to any one of claims 2-5, characterized in that, The bidirectional pump is configured with a bypass valve, which is configured to be closed when the bidirectional pump is in operation, and opened when the bidirectional pump is in stop operation.