Hydrogen production device

Abstract

The utility model provides a hydrogen production device, and relates to the technical field of water electrolysis hydrogen production. The hydrogen production device comprises an electrolytic bath, a separation assembly, an adjusting assembly and a control valve. The separation assembly comprises an oxygen separator and a hydrogen separator which are respectively communicated with an oxygen outlet and a hydrogen outlet of the electrolytic bath so as to realize gas-liquid separation of oxygen and hydrogen. The adjusting assembly comprises a shell and an adjusting piece. The shell comprises a first cavity communicating with the hydrogen separator and a second cavity communicating with the oxygen separator. The shell is further provided with a hydrogen exhaust port, and the adjusting piece is used for communicating or separating the hydrogen exhaust port and the first cavity under the action of the pressure difference between the hydrogen pressure in the first cavity and the oxygen pressure in the second cavity. And when the oxygen pressure of the second cavity reaches a preset threshold value, the control valve is opened, and oxygen is released. According to the hydrogen production device, through a pressure difference automatic adjusting mechanism, the working condition change of the electrolytic bath is quickly responded, the liquid level and pressure in the separation assembly are balanced, and the stability and efficiency of hydrogen production through water electrolysis are effectively improved.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application relates to the field of hydrogen production technology through water electrolysis, and more particularly to a hydrogen production device. Background Technology

[0002] Alkaline water electrolysis for hydrogen production has become the mainstream method for large-scale hydrogen production due to its mature technology and low cost, amid rising global demand for clean energy.

[0003] Among these, stable liquid level control in the hydrogen-oxygen separator is of great significance for the safe and efficient operation of the system. Currently, alkaline water hydrogen production commonly uses pneumatic membrane valves to separately control the emission of hydrogen and oxygen, thereby achieving liquid level balance in the hydrogen-oxygen separator.

[0004] However, this method suffers from response lag, low control precision, and untimely adjustment, which can easily lead to hydrogen-oxygen cross-contamination and pose safety hazards. Utility Model Content

[0005] In view of the above problems, this application provides a hydrogen production device that achieves efficient liquid level and pressure control and improves hydrogen production efficiency.

[0006] To achieve the above objectives, the embodiments of this application provide the following technical solutions:

[0007] This application provides a hydrogen production apparatus, including: an electrolyzer, a separation component, a regulating component, and a control valve;

[0008] The electrolyzer is configured to produce oxygen and hydrogen.

[0009] The separation assembly includes an oxygen separator and a hydrogen separator. The oxygen separator is connected to the oxygen outlet of the electrolyzer, and the hydrogen separator is connected to the hydrogen outlet of the electrolyzer.

[0010] The adjustment assembly includes: a housing and an adjustment member, the housing being configured to form a mounting cavity; the adjustment member being installed within the mounting cavity to divide the mounting cavity into a first chamber and a second chamber;

[0011] The shell is also configured to form a hydrogen inlet, which connects the hydrogen separator and the first chamber;

[0012] The shell is also configured to form an oxygen inlet, which is connected to the oxygen separator and the second chamber;

[0013] The shell is also constructed to form a hydrogen vent outlet;

[0014] The regulating element is configured to connect or disconnect the hydrogen outlet from the first chamber under the action of the pressure difference between the hydrogen pressure in the first chamber and the oxygen pressure in the second chamber.

[0015] The control valve is configured to open when the oxygen pressure in the second chamber reaches a preset pressure threshold, so that the oxygen separated by the oxygen separator can be discharged.

[0016] In one possible implementation, the regulating member is sealed to the housing, and the regulating member is configured to deform under the pressure difference between the hydrogen pressure in the first chamber and the oxygen pressure in the second chamber to connect or disconnect the hydrogen outlet from the first chamber.

[0017] In one possible implementation, the regulating member is configured to elastically deform under the pressure difference between the hydrogen pressure in the first chamber and the oxygen pressure in the second chamber, so as to connect or disconnect the hydrogen outlet from the first chamber.

[0018] In one possible implementation, the adjusting element is in the form of a sheet.

[0019] In one possible implementation, the shell structure forms a first cavity surface, which is located inside a first cavity, and both the hydrogen inlet and the hydrogen outlet are located on the first cavity surface.

[0020] When the hydrogen pressure in the first chamber is less than the oxygen pressure in the second chamber, the regulating element is in contact with the surface of the first chamber to isolate the hydrogen outlet from the first chamber.

[0021] When the hydrogen pressure in the first chamber is greater than the oxygen pressure in the second chamber, the regulating element is spaced from the surface of the first chamber so that the hydrogen outlet is connected to the hydrogen inlet through the first chamber.

[0022] In one possible implementation, the housing is further configured to form a second cavity surface, which is located within a second cavity, and an oxygen inlet is disposed on the second cavity surface; the second cavity surface is opposite to the first cavity surface, the first cavity surface being a plane, and the second cavity surface being a concave surface recessed away from the first cavity surface.

[0023] In one possible implementation, the housing includes a first housing portion and a second housing portion, the first housing portion and the second housing portion are fixedly connected, a first cavity surface is disposed on the side of the first housing portion facing the second housing portion, and a second cavity surface is disposed on the side of the second housing portion facing the first housing portion.

[0024] The adjusting element is sealed and fixed between the first shell and the second shell.

[0025] In one possible implementation, the hydrogen inlet and hydrogen outlet are located on different sides of the casing.

[0026] In one possible implementation, the hydrogen outlet includes a first part and a second part connected together, one end of the first part being connected to a first chamber, and the other end of the second part extending away from the first part to the outer surface of the housing.

[0027] In one possible implementation, it further includes: a pressure detector for detecting the oxygen pressure in the second chamber; the pressure detector is electrically connected to the control valve.

[0028] The hydrogen production apparatus provided in this application includes: an electrolyzer, a separation component, a regulating component, and a control valve. The electrolyzer produces oxygen and hydrogen, and the resulting gas-liquid mixture of hydrogen and oxygen respectively enters the separation component. The separation component includes an oxygen separator and a hydrogen separator. The oxygen separator is connected to the oxygen outlet of the electrolyzer to separate oxygen and liquid, and the hydrogen separator is connected to the hydrogen outlet of the electrolyzer to separate hydrogen and liquid. The regulating component includes a housing and a regulating member. The housing is configured to form an installation cavity, and the regulating member is installed within the installation cavity to divide the installation cavity into a first chamber and a second chamber. The housing is also configured to form a hydrogen inlet and an oxygen inlet. The hydrogen inlet connects the hydrogen separator and the first chamber to introduce hydrogen separated by the hydrogen separator into the first chamber. The oxygen inlet connects the oxygen separator and the second chamber to introduce oxygen separated by the oxygen separator into the second chamber. In addition, the shell is also configured to form a hydrogen outlet. The regulating element can connect or disconnect the hydrogen outlet from the first chamber based on the pressure difference between the hydrogen pressure in the first chamber and the oxygen pressure in the second chamber. A control valve is connected to the second chamber, and opens when the oxygen pressure in the second chamber reaches a preset pressure threshold, allowing the oxygen separated by the oxygen separator to be discharged. The hydrogen production device provided in this application, based on an automatic pressure difference regulation mechanism, can efficiently balance the liquid level and pressure in the hydrogen separator and oxygen separator, avoiding the risk of hydrogen and oxygen cross-contamination. It has advantages such as simple structure, sensitive response, and safety and reliability, effectively ensuring the continuous and efficient operation of the electrolyzer and improving the stability and capacity of hydrogen production. Attached Figure Description

[0029] To more clearly illustrate the technical solutions in the embodiments of this application or the prior art, the drawings used in the description of the embodiments or the prior art will be briefly introduced below. Obviously, the drawings described below are some embodiments of this application. For those skilled in the art, other drawings can be obtained based on these drawings without creative effort.

[0030] Figure 1 A process flow diagram of the hydrogen production apparatus provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0031] Figure 2 This is a schematic diagram of the regulating component in the hydrogen production device provided in the embodiments of this application;

[0032] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram showing the state in which the hydrogen outlet of the regulating component in the hydrogen production device provided in this application is connected to the first chamber.

[0033] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures:

[0034] 10- Hydrogen production unit;

[0035] 100-Electrolytic cell; 200-Separation assembly; 300-Regulating assembly; 400-Heat exchanger; 500-Scrubber; 600-Control valve; 700-Pressure detector;

[0036] 110 - Oxygen outlet; 120 - Hydrogen outlet; 210 - Oxygen separator; 220 - Hydrogen separator; 310 - Shell; 320 - Regulating element; 330 - Mounting cavity; 340 - Hydrogen inlet; 350 - Oxygen inlet; 360 - Hydrogen outlet; 370 - Oxygen discharge pipe;

[0037] 211-Air outlet; 221-Air outlet; 311-First shell portion; 312-Second shell portion; 331-First chamber; 332-Second chamber; 361-First part; 362-Second part;

[0038] 3111 - First cavity surface; 3121 - Second cavity surface. Detailed Implementation

[0039] As described in the background section, against the backdrop of rapidly growing global demand for clean energy, alkaline water electrolysis for hydrogen production has become one of the mainstream technologies for large-scale hydrogen production due to its mature technology and relatively controllable costs.

[0040] Alkaline water electrolysis for hydrogen production (hereinafter referred to as alkaline water hydrogen production) technology electrolyzes water into hydrogen and oxygen in an electrolytic cell. In the electrolytic cell, the electrolyte (e.g., an alkaline solution such as potassium hydroxide) reacts electrochemically at the anode and cathode under the influence of a DC power supply, producing hydrogen and oxygen respectively. Because the gas is released as bubbles on the electrode surface, it forms a dynamic mixture with the electrolyte. Furthermore, the electrolyte needs continuous circulation during electrolysis to maintain uniform concentration and remove heat from the reaction. Therefore, what is discharged from the electrolytic cell is not pure gas, but a gas-liquid mixture containing hydrogen / oxygen bubbles and electrolyte.

[0041] The gas-liquid mixture generated in the electrolyzer needs to pass through a hydrogen separator and an oxygen separator to separate the gas from the alkaline solution. In the actual electrolysis process, during the reduction reaction at the cathode, only 2 electrons are needed to generate one molecule of hydrogen, while 4 electrons are needed to generate one molecule of oxygen at the anode. According to Faraday's law, for the same amount of electricity, the amount of hydrogen is twice that of oxygen, corresponding to a volume ratio of 2:1. Therefore, hydrogen carries more electrolyte into the hydrogen separator during generation. In other words, the amount of gas-liquid mixture received by the hydrogen separator per unit time is significantly greater than that received by the oxygen separator. This causes the hydrogen-side liquid level to rise due to electrolyte accumulation, while the oxygen-side liquid level relatively decreases due to less electrolyte carried and continuous water consumption, resulting in an imbalance in the separator levels.

[0042] The stable control of the liquid level within the separator directly affects the operating efficiency and system safety of the electrolyzer. Liquid level imbalance can lead to liquid carryover in gas, equipment corrosion, and even safety accidents. Therefore, precise liquid level control is a core element in ensuring the stable operation of alkaline water hydrogen production.

[0043] In related technologies, alkaline water hydrogen production technology commonly uses pneumatic diaphragm valves as the core control element. By adjusting the emission rates of hydrogen and oxygen separately, the liquid level balance of the hydrogen-oxygen separator is maintained. Specifically, the hydrogen separator and oxygen separator are each connected to a pneumatic diaphragm valve. Differential pressure sensors monitor the liquid levels of the hydrogen and oxygen separators respectively. After signal processing, the opening and closing of the hydrogen and oxygen measuring pneumatic diaphragm valves are controlled separately to adjust the emission rates of hydrogen and oxygen, forming a closed-loop control circuit of "monitoring-feedback-adjustment".

[0044] However, in this method, liquid accumulation in the gas phase tube of the differential pressure transmitter or insufficient sensitivity may cause distortion in the liquid level monitoring of the hydrogen-oxygen separator, leading to liquid level imbalance and increasing the risk of hydrogen-oxygen cross-contamination. Furthermore, valve adjustment lag may cause the liquid level difference to exceed the safety threshold, potentially triggering major accidents such as explosions. Additionally, because pneumatic diaphragm valves are susceptible to gas source delays, mechanical inertia, and nonlinear characteristics, their response speed lags behind changes in the electrolyzer's operating conditions, making it difficult to accurately match the dynamic relationship between liquid level and gas emission.

[0045] In view of this, the researchers of this application have designed a hydrogen production device.

[0046] The researchers of this application noted that in existing solutions, the response lag of pneumatic diaphragm valves essentially stems from the multi-stage transmission delay of "monitoring signal transmission - control logic operation - gas source driving valve". Furthermore, the liquid level imbalance between the hydrogen separator and the oxygen separator inevitably leads to changes in the gas pressure difference between the two sides. For example, when the liquid level in the hydrogen separator rises, the gas phase space decreases, causing the hydrogen pressure to rise. This pressure difference is the most direct physical representation of the liquid level state.

[0047] Therefore, the researchers of this application have conceived and designed a pressure difference-sensitive regulator that can automatically adjust the liquid level based solely on the real-time pressure difference between the hydrogen and oxygen sides without the need for a control algorithm. This eliminates the delay in signal processing and mechanical drive, and achieves direct coupled control of "pressure difference change - regulator instant response - rapid liquid level balance", significantly improving dynamic response speed, achieving efficient liquid level and pressure control, and improving hydrogen production efficiency.

[0048] To make the above-mentioned objectives, features, and advantages of the embodiments of this application more apparent and understandable, the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application will be clearly and completely described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. Obviously, the described embodiments are only a part of the embodiments of this application, and not all of them. All other embodiments obtained by those skilled in the art based on the embodiments of this application without creative effort are within the scope of protection of this application.

[0049] Figure 1 A process flow diagram of the hydrogen production apparatus provided in an embodiment of this application. (Refer to...) Figure 1 As shown in the embodiments of this application, a hydrogen production device is provided, which can meet the stability, safety, and economic requirements of hydrogen production systems of different scales and scenarios. Exemplarily, the hydrogen production device can be used in large-scale alkaline water electrolysis hydrogen production industrial systems, renewable energy coupled hydrogen production, hydrogen storage with high safety requirements, and fuel cell hydrogen supply, among other scenarios.

[0050] Reference Figure 1 As shown, the hydrogen production device 10 includes an electrolyzer 100. The electrolyzer 100 contains an alkaline electrolyte such as potassium hydroxide solution. An external DC power supply drives a water electrolysis reaction, where an oxidation reaction occurs at the anode to generate oxygen, and a reduction reaction occurs at the cathode to generate hydrogen. An oxygen outlet 110 is provided on the anode side of the electrolyzer 100, and a hydrogen outlet 120 is provided on the cathode side. The generated oxygen is discharged from the oxygen outlet 110, and the hydrogen is discharged from the hydrogen outlet 120 to avoid the risk of hydrogen and oxygen mixing.

[0051] It should be noted that the hydrogen and oxygen generated on the electrode surface initially exist in the form of small bubbles. After detaching from the electrode surface, these bubbles form a gas-liquid two-phase flow with the surrounding electrolyte. Due to the small size and large number of bubbles, complete separation is difficult to achieve inside the electrolytic cell 100. Therefore, what is discharged from the oxygen outlet 110 is not pure oxygen, but a mixture of oxygen and electrolyte (hereinafter referred to as the oxygen-liquid mixture). Similarly, what is discharged from the hydrogen outlet 120 is a mixture of hydrogen and electrolyte (hereinafter referred to as the hydrogen-liquid mixture).

[0052] Continue to refer to Figure 1 As shown, the hydrogen production device 10 also includes a separation component 200, which can separate oxygen or hydrogen from liquid so that pure oxygen or hydrogen can be collected or processed in the future, while the separated electrolyte is returned to the electrolyzer 100 for recycling.

[0053] The separation assembly 200 includes an oxygen separator 210 and a hydrogen separator 220, which respectively process the oxygen-liquid mixture and hydrogen-liquid mixture discharged from the electrolyzer 100. Specifically, the oxygen separator 210 is connected to the oxygen outlet 110 of the electrolyzer 100 via a pipeline. After the oxygen-liquid mixture from the anode enters the oxygen separator 210, it achieves efficient separation of oxygen and electrolyte using principles such as gravity settling and baffle separation. The less dense oxygen rises to the top of the oxygen separator 210 for subsequent discharge, while the separated alkaline electrolyte is returned to the electrolyzer 100 for recycling via a return pipeline.

[0054] Similarly, the hydrogen separator 220 is connected to the hydrogen outlet 120 of the electrolyzer 100 via a pipe. The hydrogen-liquid mixture generated at the cathode undergoes gas-liquid separation within the hydrogen separator 220. The hydrogen rises to the top of the hydrogen separator 220 for subsequent discharge, while the separated electrolyte also flows back to the electrolyzer 100, forming a closed electrolyte circulation system.

[0055] However, due to the different yields of hydrogen and oxygen during the electrolysis process, an imbalance in liquid levels between the hydrogen separator 220 and the oxygen separator 210 can easily occur. This imbalance may lead to liquid carryover in the gas, equipment corrosion, or even safety accidents.

[0056] Therefore, the hydrogen production unit 10 also includes a regulating component 300 (see Figure 2 (As shown). The regulating component 300 can balance the liquid level and gas pressure in the hydrogen separator 220 and the oxygen separator 210 by regulating the emission of hydrogen and oxygen, thereby ensuring the safe and stable operation of the hydrogen production unit 10.

[0057] Specifically, the adjustment assembly 300 includes a housing 310 and an adjustment member 320. The housing 310 may be configured to form a mounting cavity 330, and the adjustment member 320 is installed within the mounting cavity 330. Furthermore, the adjustment member 320 divides the mounting cavity 330 into a first chamber 331 and a second chamber 332 that are independent of each other. Exemplarily, the adjustment member 320 may be sealed to the housing 310 through a sealing structure such as a sealing ring or a sealing diaphragm to isolate the gas passage between the first chamber 331 and the second chamber 332.

[0058] Continue to refer to Figure 2 As shown, the housing 310 also includes a hydrogen inlet 340, which connects to the outlet 221 of the hydrogen separator 220 and the first chamber 331. Hydrogen separated by the hydrogen separator 220, under pressure, enters the first chamber 331 through a pipe, directly contacting the regulating element 320 within the housing 310 and generating pressure on the regulating element 320 towards the second chamber 332. This pressure change acts on the regulating element 320 in real time, providing conditions for sensing hydrogen-side pressure fluctuations and triggering subsequent actions.

[0059] The housing 310 also includes an oxygen inlet 350. The oxygen inlet 350 is connected via a pipe to the outlet 211 of the oxygen separator 210 and the second chamber 332. Oxygen separated by the oxygen separator 210 enters the second chamber 332 through the pipe, directly contacting the regulating element 320 within the housing 310 and generating pressure on the regulating element 320 towards the first chamber 331. Changes in oxygen pressure also directly affect the regulating element 320, enabling it to respond in real-time to changes in oxygen-side pressure.

[0060] Since the hydrogen and oxygen generated during the electrolysis process carry a large amount of reaction heat and latent heat of electrolyte vaporization, the temperature is usually high. If they directly enter the regulating component 300, the high temperature may cause the material of the regulating component 300 to age faster and its flexibility to decrease, thereby affecting the pressure sensing accuracy and response sensitivity.

[0061] Therefore, a heat exchanger 400 can be installed on the pipeline between the hydrogen separator 220 and the first chamber 331. Similarly, a heat exchanger 400 can also be installed on the pipeline between the oxygen separator 210 and the second chamber 332. The heat exchanger 400 can effectively reduce the temperature of hydrogen and oxygen, avoiding thermal damage to the internal structure of the regulating component 300 caused by high-temperature gases, thereby extending the service life of the regulating component 300. At the same time, the heat exchanger 400 can also eliminate the interference of temperature fluctuations on the density and pressure of hydrogen and oxygen, stabilize the gas density and pressure parameters of hydrogen and oxygen, and ensure that the hydrogen entering the first chamber 331 and the oxygen entering the second chamber 332 are under ideal operating conditions, thereby improving the response accuracy and stability of the regulating component 300 to pressure changes.

[0062] In addition, scrubbers 500 can be installed on the pipeline between the hydrogen separator 220 and the first chamber 331, and on the pipeline between the oxygen separator 210 and the second chamber 332. Although the hydrogen discharged from the hydrogen separator 220 and the oxygen discharged from the oxygen separator 210 have undergone preliminary gas-liquid separation, they may still contain trace amounts of alkaline droplets and impurities such as metal ions and catalyst particles generated during electrolysis. If these impurities are not effectively removed, they will not only reduce the purity of the hydrogen and oxygen, but may also cause corrosion to subsequent pipelines and even lead to blockage risks. For example, the scrubber 500 can use water washing or alkaline washing liquid to dissolve or capture impurities such as alkaline mist and solid particles entrained in the hydrogen and oxygen through spraying or packed towers, so as to ensure the cleanliness and stability of the output hydrogen and oxygen.

[0063] Continue to refer to Figure 2As shown, the housing 310 is also configured to form a hydrogen outlet 360 for discharging hydrogen. In some embodiments, the hydrogen outlet 360 is connected to a hydrogen discharge pipe. The hydrogen outlet 360 is disposed on and communicates with the portion of the housing 310 that forms the first chamber 331. In some embodiments, the hydrogen outlet 360 and the hydrogen inlet 340 may be located on different sides of the housing 310, such as... Figure 2 As shown, the hydrogen inlet 340 and the hydrogen outlet 360 can be vertically staggered. In this way, the staggered distribution of the hydrogen outlet 360 and the hydrogen inlet 340 can significantly optimize the pipeline layout in the hydrogen production unit 10. The interface design on different sides can directly match the natural direction of the upstream hydrogen separator 220 and the downstream equipment, reducing pipeline bends and intersections.

[0064] In other embodiments, the hydrogen outlet 360 and the hydrogen inlet 340 may also be located on the same side of the housing 310. This arrangement significantly reduces the overall size of the hydrogen production device 10, effectively reducing its footprint and making it suitable for compact installations in miniaturized, skid-mounted systems. Furthermore, by centrally arranging the interface areas, the number of openings in the housing 310 and the length of the sealing surface can be reduced, significantly lowering the risk of hydrogen leakage. This application does not impose specific limitations in this regard.

[0065] Furthermore, the hydrogen outlet 360 can be a segmented structure. For example, the hydrogen outlet 360 includes a first part 361 and a second part 362 that are interconnected. One end of the first part 361 is connected to the first chamber 331, and the end of the second part 362 opposite to the first part 361 extends to the outer surface of the housing 310, forming an interface end for connection with external pipelines. The first part 361 and the second part 362 can be a single integral structure. Alternatively, the first part 361 and the second part 362 can also be connected by threads or flanges.

[0066] Reference Figure 2 As shown, the housing 310 can be configured to form a first cavity surface 3111 and a second cavity surface 3121. The first cavity surface 3111 is located within the first chamber 331, and both the hydrogen inlet 340 and the hydrogen outlet 360 are located on the first cavity surface 3111. The second cavity surface 3121 is located within the second chamber 332, and the oxygen inlet 350 is located on the second cavity surface 3121. The second cavity surface 3121 is positioned opposite to the first cavity surface 3111.

[0067] The housing 310 may include a first housing portion 311 and a second housing portion 312. The first housing portion 311 and the second housing portion 312 are fixedly connected. A first cavity surface 3111 is disposed on the side of the first housing portion 311 facing the second housing portion 312, and a second cavity surface 3121 is disposed on the side of the second housing portion 312 facing the first housing portion 311.

[0068] The regulating component 320 can achieve the connection or disconnection between the first part 361 of the hydrogen outlet 360 and the first chamber 331 under the pressure difference between the hydrogen pressure in the first chamber 331 and the oxygen pressure in the second chamber 332.

[0069] In some embodiments, the adjusting member 320 can be sealed and fixed between the first housing portion 311 and the second housing portion 312, and the hydrogen outlet 360 and the first chamber 331 can be connected or disconnected by the deformation of the adjusting member 320.

[0070] For details, please refer to... Figure 2 As shown, when the hydrogen pressure in the first chamber 331 is lower than the oxygen pressure in the second chamber 332, the regulating member 320 is tightly fitted to the first chamber surface 3111 under the action of the oxygen pressure in the second chamber 332, forming a sealed interface to block the communication path between the hydrogen outlet 360 and the first chamber 331.

[0071] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram showing the state in which the hydrogen outlet of the regulating component in the hydrogen production device provided in this application is connected to the first chamber. (Refer to...) Figure 3 As shown, when the hydrogen pressure in the first chamber 331 is higher than the oxygen pressure in the second chamber 332, the regulating member 320 deforms away from the first chamber surface 3111 under the action of the hydrogen pressure in the first chamber 331, thereby forming a space between the first chamber surface 3111 and the first part 361 of the hydrogen outlet 360 for hydrogen to flow through, so that the hydrogen outlet 360 is connected to the hydrogen inlet 340 through the first chamber 331 to complete the discharge of hydrogen.

[0072] Reference Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, in some possible implementations, the first cavity surface 3111 can be set as a plane so that a uniform sealing interface can be formed when the regulating member 320 is in contact with the first cavity surface 3111. The second cavity surface 3121 can be set as a concave surface opposite to the first cavity surface 3111. In this way, the concave surface structure can reserve sufficient space for the regulating member 320 to deform in the direction of the second cavity 332. When the pressure in the first cavity 331 is greater than the pressure in the second cavity 332, the regulating member 320 can bend or expand freely towards the concave side under the action of the pressure difference, avoiding deformation obstruction due to space limitation, ensuring that the regulating member 320 can flexibly adjust the deformation amplitude according to the pressure difference, thereby reliably realizing the connection or isolation between the hydrogen outlet 360 and the first cavity 331, and improving the response freedom and control accuracy of the regulating component 300.

[0073] The adjusting element 320 can be an elastic element, such as a rubber diaphragm or a silicone diaphragm. The elastic element has good toughness and ductility, and under the pressure difference between the first chamber 331 and the second chamber 332, it can undergo elastic deformation to connect or disconnect the hydrogen outlet 360 from the first chamber 331. When the pressure difference is eliminated or reversed, the elastic element can rely on its own elasticity to return to its initial state, achieving repeated cyclic action without permanent plastic damage, ensuring the stability and reliability of the control function during long-term use. Furthermore, during elastic deformation, the sealing connection between the adjusting element 320 and the housing 310 can be maintained through the flexible deformation of the material, avoiding the risk of gas leakage caused by displacement gaps or wear in ordinary rigid deformation structures.

[0074] For example, the regulating component 320 can be made of 1Cr18Ni9Ti austenitic stainless steel. 1Cr18Ni9Ti has good toughness and ductility, and can undergo reversible elastic deformation within a certain stress range, meeting the deformation requirements of the regulating component 320 in response to pressure difference. In addition, in humid environments containing corrosive media, the dense chromium oxide protective film formed on the surface of 1Cr18Ni9Ti can effectively resist electrochemical corrosion, preventing performance degradation or structural failure of the elastic component due to corrosion, thereby extending the service life of the regulating component 320.

[0075] Furthermore, the adjusting component 320 can be configured as a sheet-like structure. On one hand, the flat geometry of the sheet-like structure requires minimal space during installation, allowing for a tight fit with the housing 310 and reducing the volume of the adjusting assembly 300. On the other hand, the sheet-like structure has a large stress-bearing area, effectively capturing pressure difference changes between the first chamber 331 and the second chamber 332, thereby improving the sensitivity to pressure fluctuations and enabling precise control of the connection or disconnection between the hydrogen outlet 360 and the first chamber 331. In addition, the uniform stress distribution of the sheet-like structure makes it less prone to localized stress concentration during repeated deformation, ensuring deformation stability and reliability during long-term use.

[0076] In other embodiments, the adjusting member 320 can be connected between the first housing portion 311 and the second housing portion 312 via a slide groove or guide rail, enabling it to dynamically adjust its position based on the pressure difference between the first chamber 331 and the second chamber 332, thereby achieving axial movement relative to the housing 310. Specifically, when the hydrogen pressure in the first chamber 331 is higher than the oxygen pressure in the second chamber 332, the driving force formed by the pressure difference pushes the adjusting member 320 towards the second chamber 332, causing the adjusting member 320 to separate from the first chamber surface 3111, thereby opening the communication channel between the hydrogen outlet 360 and the first chamber 331, allowing hydrogen to flow out through the hydrogen outlet 360. When the oxygen pressure in the second chamber 332 is higher than the hydrogen pressure in the first chamber 331, the reverse pressure difference drives the regulating member 320 to move towards the first chamber 331 until the regulating member 320 is tightly fitted with the first chamber surface 3111 to form a sealed interface, blocking the fluid passage between the hydrogen outlet 360 and the first chamber 331.

[0077] Continue to refer to Figure 1 As shown, the hydrogen production device 10 also includes a control valve 600, which can be opened when the oxygen pressure in the second chamber 332 reaches a preset pressure threshold, so that the oxygen separated by the oxygen separator 210 can be discharged.

[0078] The hydrogen production unit 10 also includes an oxygen discharge pipe 370, which communicates with the oxygen separator 210 and the second chamber 332. A control valve 600 is located at the end of the oxygen discharge pipe 370 away from the oxygen separator 210 and the second chamber 332. The control valve 600 can control the opening and closing of the oxygen discharge pipe 370, and is configured such that when the control valve 600 is open, the oxygen discharge pipe 370 is open. For example, the control valve 600 can be a pneumatic diaphragm valve. A pneumatic diaphragm valve is an actuator powered by compressed air, which converts the air pressure signal into a push rod displacement through a diaphragm mechanism, thereby controlling the opening degree of the oxygen discharge pipe 370.

[0079] Additionally, the hydrogen production unit 10 may include a pressure detector 700, which can be installed in the oxygen separator 210 or in the second chamber 332 to collect oxygen pressure data in real time. The pressure detector 700 is electrically connected to the control valve 600 to quickly and accurately transmit the detected oxygen pressure signal to the control valve 600. When the pressure detector 700 detects that the oxygen pressure in the second chamber 332 has reached a preset pressure threshold, that is, the oxygen pressure in the second chamber 332 has reached the discharge condition, the control valve 600 opens based on the received signal, allowing the oxygen separated by the oxygen separator 210 to be discharged through the oxygen discharge pipe 370, thereby maintaining the pressure in the second chamber 332 within a safe and stable range.

[0080] For ease of explanation, this embodiment uses the example of the adjusting member 320 being sealed and fixed between the first shell 311 and the second shell 312, and the hydrogen outlet 360 being connected to or disconnected from the first chamber 331 by the deformation of the adjusting member 320, to illustrate the working process of the hydrogen production device 10 of this application.

[0081] After the electrolyzer 100 is started, water is electrolyzed to generate hydrogen and oxygen. Initially, the control valve 600 is closed. Due to the rapid hydrogen generation rate, the pressure in the first chamber 331 is higher than the pressure in the second chamber 332. Under the pressure difference, the regulating element 320 bulges towards the second chamber 332, opening the hydrogen outlet 360 to release hydrogen and reduce the pressure in the first chamber 331. When the pressure in the first chamber 331 is lower than that in the second chamber 332, the regulating element 320 is pushed back to block the hydrogen outlet 360, preventing further hydrogen discharge and causing the pressure in the first chamber 331 to rise. As the electrolysis process continues, the above cycle repeats continuously, thereby achieving real-time pressure balance between the first chamber 331 and the second chamber 332.

[0082] With control valve 600 closed, the pressure in the second chamber 332 rises due to the continuous generation of oxygen. When the pressure in the second chamber 332 reaches the preset pressure threshold, control valve 600 adjusts its opening based on the signal fed back by pressure detector 700, allowing oxygen to be discharged at an appropriate flow rate, thereby stabilizing the pressure in the second chamber 332 at the preset value.

[0083] Meanwhile, since the regulating component 320 automatically adjusts based on the pressure difference between the first chamber 331 and the second chamber 332, the pressure of the first chamber 331 can be kept consistent with the pressure of the second chamber 332, thereby ensuring the pressure stability of the entire hydrogen production device 10.

[0084] According to the principle of communicating vessels, when the gas pressure in the hydrogen separator 220 and the oxygen separator 210 is the same, the pressure on the liquid surface of the alkali solution on both sides is equal, and the liquid level naturally remains the same. Therefore, by controlling the pressure in the first chamber 331 to be consistent with the pressure in the second chamber 332, the liquid level in the hydrogen separator 220 and the alkali separator can be balanced, thereby improving the stability and reliability of the alkali water hydrogen production process.

[0085] The various embodiments or implementation methods described in this specification are presented in a progressive manner. Each embodiment focuses on the differences from other embodiments, and the same or similar parts between the embodiments can be referred to each other.

[0086] In the description of this specification, the references to terms such as "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "illustrative embodiment," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., indicate that a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with an embodiment or example is included in at least one embodiment or example of this application. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples.

[0087] Finally, it should be noted that the above embodiments are only used to illustrate the technical solutions of this application, and are not intended to limit them. Although this application has been described in detail with reference to the foregoing embodiments, those skilled in the art should understand that modifications can still be made to the technical solutions described in the foregoing embodiments, or equivalent substitutions can be made to some or all of the technical features therein. Such modifications or substitutions do not cause the essence of the corresponding technical solutions to deviate from the scope of the technical solutions of the embodiments of this application.

Claims

1. A hydrogen production apparatus, characterized in that, include: Electrolytic cell, separation assembly, regulating assembly, and control valve; The electrolytic cell is configured to produce oxygen and hydrogen. The separation assembly includes an oxygen separator and a hydrogen separator, wherein the oxygen separator is connected to the oxygen outlet of the electrolyzer and the hydrogen separator is connected to the hydrogen outlet of the electrolyzer. The adjustment assembly includes: a housing and an adjustment element, the housing being configured to form a mounting cavity; The adjusting member is installed in the mounting cavity to divide the mounting cavity into a first chamber and a second chamber; The housing is also configured to form a hydrogen inlet, which connects the hydrogen separator and the first chamber; The housing is also configured to form an oxygen inlet, which connects the oxygen separator and the second chamber; The shell is also configured to form a hydrogen outlet; The regulating element is configured to connect or disconnect the hydrogen outlet from the first chamber under the action of the pressure difference between the hydrogen pressure in the first chamber and the oxygen pressure in the second chamber. The control valve is configured to open when the oxygen pressure in the second chamber reaches a preset pressure threshold, so that the oxygen separated by the oxygen separator is discharged.

2. The hydrogen production apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, The regulating member is sealed to the housing, and the regulating member is configured to deform under the pressure difference between the hydrogen pressure in the first chamber and the oxygen pressure in the second chamber, so as to connect or disconnect the hydrogen outlet from the first chamber.

3. The hydrogen production apparatus according to claim 2, characterized in that, The regulating element is configured to elastically deform under the pressure difference between the hydrogen pressure in the first chamber and the oxygen pressure in the second chamber, so as to connect or disconnect the hydrogen outlet from the first chamber.

4. The hydrogen production apparatus according to claim 2 or 3, characterized in that, The adjusting element is in the form of a sheet.

5. The hydrogen production apparatus according to claim 4, characterized in that, The shell structure forms a first cavity surface, which is located inside the first cavity. The hydrogen inlet and the hydrogen outlet are both located on the first cavity surface. When the hydrogen pressure in the first chamber is less than the oxygen pressure in the second chamber, the adjusting member is in contact with the surface of the first chamber to isolate the hydrogen outlet from the first chamber. When the hydrogen pressure in the first chamber is greater than the oxygen pressure in the second chamber, the regulating member is spaced from the first chamber surface so that the hydrogen outlet communicates with the hydrogen inlet through the first chamber.

6. The hydrogen production apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that, The housing is also configured to form a second cavity surface, which is located inside the second cavity, and the oxygen inlet is disposed on the second cavity surface; the second cavity surface is opposite to the first cavity surface, the first cavity surface is a plane, and the second cavity surface is a concave surface that is recessed away from the first cavity surface.

7. The hydrogen production apparatus according to claim 6, characterized in that, The housing includes a first housing portion and a second housing portion, the first housing portion and the second housing portion are fixedly connected, the first cavity surface is disposed on the side of the first housing portion facing the second housing portion, and the second cavity surface is disposed on the side of the second housing portion facing the first housing portion; The adjusting element is sealed and fixed between the first shell and the second shell.

8. The hydrogen production apparatus according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The hydrogen inlet and the hydrogen outlet are located on different sides of the housing.

9. The hydrogen production apparatus according to any one of claims 1-3, characterized in that, The hydrogen outlet includes a first part and a second part that are connected to each other. One end of the first part is connected to the first chamber, and one end of the second part extends away from the first part to the outer surface of the shell.

10. The hydrogen production apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that, Also includes: A barometer is used to detect the oxygen pressure in the second chamber; The pressure detector is electrically connected to the control valve.

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