An electrolyzer end plate for alkaline electrolysis of hydrogen

Abstract

The application belongs to the technical field of electrolytic hydrogen production, and particularly relates to an electrolytic cell end pole plate for alkaline electrolytic hydrogen production, comprising a pole frame and a baffle plate, the inner ring of the pole frame is provided with a plurality of embedding grooves, each embedding groove is provided with an embedding block, the embedding block is provided with an inlet-outlet flow channel for communicating the inside and outside of the end pole plate, and the embedding block is further provided with a plurality of flow channel grooves located on the outer side of the embedding block and in communication with the inlet-outlet flow channel. The embedding block with the embedding groove is arranged in the inner ring of the pole frame, the complex flow channel is transferred to the small embedding block which can be independently processed, the flow channel grooves on the outer side of the embedding block are in communication with the internal inlet-outlet flow channel, and medium conduction is realized. The design makes the flow channel processing independent of the limited space of the whole pole frame, can adopt conventional equipment for efficient and accurate processing, greatly reduces the manufacturing difficulty and cost, and is convenient for quality control and maintenance and replacement. The embedding block and the pole frame cooperate to form a stable flow channel structure, guarantee uniform distribution of fluid, improve the sealing performance and electrolytic efficiency, and are suitable for reliable integration of large-scale alkaline electrolytic hydrogen production equipment.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This application belongs to the field of electrolytic hydrogen production technology, specifically relating to an electrolytic cell end plate for alkaline electrolytic hydrogen production. Background Technology

[0002] An electrolyzer is the core equipment in electrochemical processes such as water electrolysis for hydrogen production, and it is typically composed of multiple electrolysis chambers connected in series. Each electrolysis chamber mainly consists of end plates, electrodes, and diaphragms. Among these, the end plates, as key structural components at both ends of the electrolyzer, perform multiple functions including conductivity, mechanical support, and fluid sealing. An end plate generally includes an electrode frame and a blocking plate disposed within it. The electrode frame has flow channels for electrolyte inflow and outflow, as well as gas outflow, to achieve effective transport and separation of the medium during electrolysis.

[0003] Currently, in alkaline electrolyzers, the flow channel structure of the end plates mainly adopts two schemes: one is to directly mill the flow channel grooves into the integral end plate through machining, and then form a closed flow channel by sealing; the other is to split the end plate into two parts: the end frame and the plug plate. After machining the flow channel on the end frame, it is sealed with a gasket and assembled with the plug plate, and finally sealed by welding to form a complete flow channel. Both of these structures have obvious defects in practical applications.

[0004] However, existing technical solutions have many shortcomings. First, since the electrode frame is a ring structure, the flow channel is often located inside or on the inner side of the end electrode plate, making it difficult to effectively access using traditional machining methods. Specially customized lathes or milling machines must be used, resulting in high processing costs and long processing cycles. Second, the geometric accuracy of complex flow channel structures is difficult to guarantee, especially in the machining of deep grooves, narrow slits, or curved flow channels, which can easily lead to dimensional deviations, affecting the uniform distribution of fluid and thus reducing electrolysis efficiency. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The technical problem to be solved by this application is to provide an electrolytic cell end plate for alkaline electrolysis hydrogen production, which adopts a structure in which a small plate-shaped component with a flow channel structure is combined with a frame, thereby reducing the manufacturing difficulty of the flow channel structure of the end plate.

[0006] This application provides an electrolyzer end plate for alkaline electrolysis hydrogen production, comprising: an electrode frame and a plug plate. The inner ring of the electrode frame has a plurality of grooves, and each groove is provided with an insert. The insert has an inlet and outlet flow channel for connecting the inner and outer sides of the end plate. The insert also has a plurality of flow channel grooves located on its outer side and one end of which is connected to the inlet and outlet flow channel.

[0007] Optionally, the insert is embedded in the groove near the side of the inlet / outlet channel, and the insert is attached to the side wall of the groove on both sides along the distribution direction of the plurality of channel grooves.

[0008] Optionally, the insert is welded to the sidewall of the groove along both sides of the distribution direction of the plurality of flow channel grooves.

[0009] Optionally, the groove has a single-sided bevel for welding the insert into the groove and filling it with solder.

[0010] Optionally, the inlet and outlet channels are in the shape of a capsule-shaped structure, and the length direction of the capsule-shaped structure is parallel to the distribution direction of the plurality of channel grooves.

[0011] Optionally, the flow channel is a rectangular channel.

[0012] Optionally, the width of the flow channel is 0.2mm-2mm.

[0013] Optionally, the length direction of the insert is consistent with the distribution direction of the plurality of flow channel grooves, and the length of the insert is 2mm-10mm.

[0014] Optionally, the number of flow channel slots on the insert is 4-10.

[0015] Optionally, the pole frame and the end plate are welded together or are integrally formed.

[0016] The beneficial effects of this application are that by setting a grooved insert within the inner ring of the electrode frame, the complex flow channel is transferred to a small, independently machinable insert. The flow channel groove on the outer side of the insert communicates with the internal inlet and outlet flow channels, enabling medium conduction. This design frees the flow channel machining from the limited space of the integral electrode frame, allowing for efficient and precise machining using conventional equipment, significantly reducing manufacturing difficulty and cost; it also facilitates quality control and maintenance / replacement. The insert and electrode frame work together to form a stable flow channel structure, ensuring uniform fluid distribution, improving sealing and electrolysis efficiency, and is suitable for reliable integration into large-scale alkaline electrolysis hydrogen production equipment. Attached Figure Description

[0017] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the electrolytic cell end plate provided in the embodiments of this application; Figure 2 for Figure 1 Enlarged view of area A in the image; Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the slot structure provided in an embodiment of this application; Figure 4 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the block provided in an embodiment of this application.

[0018] In the diagram: 110, pole frame; 111, groove; 112, single-sided bevel; 120, blocking plate; 130, insert; 131, inlet / outlet channel; 132, channel groove. Detailed Implementation

[0019] To make the technical problems, technical solutions, and beneficial effects to be solved by this application clearer, the following detailed description is provided in conjunction with the accompanying drawings and embodiments. It should be understood that the specific embodiments described herein are merely illustrative and are not intended to limit the scope of this application.

[0020] like Figure 1-4 As shown, this application provides an electrolytic cell end plate for alkaline electrolytic hydrogen production, comprising: an electrode frame 110 and a plug plate 120. The inner ring of the electrode frame 110 has a plurality of grooves 111, each groove 111 having an insert 130. The insert 130 has an inlet and outlet flow channel 131 for connecting the inner and outer sides of the end plate, and the insert 130 also has a plurality of flow channel grooves 132 located on its outer side and one end connected to the inlet and outlet flow channel 131.

[0021] Compared with existing technologies, the electrolytic cell end plate for alkaline electrolysis hydrogen production provided in this application transfers complex flow channels to independently machinable small inserts 130 by setting inserts 130 with grooves 111 in the inner ring of the electrode frame 110. The flow channel grooves 132 on the outer side of the insert 130 are connected to the internal inlet and outlet flow channels 131 to achieve medium conduction. This design frees the flow channel machining from the limited space of the integral electrode frame 110, allowing for efficient and precise machining using conventional equipment, significantly reducing manufacturing difficulty and cost; it also facilitates quality control and maintenance replacement. The inserts 130 and the electrode frame 110 cooperate to form a stable flow channel structure, ensuring uniform fluid distribution, improving sealing and electrolysis efficiency, and is suitable for reliable integration into large-scale alkaline electrolysis hydrogen production equipment.

[0022] It should be noted that the insert 130 can be pre-processed, and several flow channel grooves 132 and inlet / outlet flow channels 131 can be opened according to the design requirements (the size of the holes can be determined according to the design calculation requirements), so that the alkali solution first enters the end plate cavity, and then enters the reaction chamber through the inlet / outlet flow channels 131; at the same time, the gas-alkali mixture flows out of the reaction chamber to the gas-alkali main channel.

[0023] In one possible implementation, the insert 130 is embedded in the groove 111 near the side of the inlet / outlet channel 131, and the insert 130 is attached to the side wall of the groove 111 on both sides along the distribution direction of the plurality of channel grooves 132.

[0024] Specifically, this technical solution involves embedding the side of the insert 130 into the groove 111 of the pole frame 110, ensuring that both sides of the insert 130 are tightly fitted against the sidewall of the groove 111 along the flow channel distribution direction. This achieves precise positioning and stable fixation of the insert 130 within the groove 111. This multi-directional fitting structure effectively limits the radial and lateral displacement of the insert 130 during assembly and operation, improving the mechanical stability of the overall structure. Simultaneously, the fitting surface serves as an auxiliary sealing surface, reducing the risk of fluid leakage, ensuring reliable sealing of the flow channel system, and guaranteeing the orderly flow of electrolyte and gas.

[0025] In one possible implementation, the insert 130 is welded to the sidewall of the groove 111 on both sides along the distribution direction of the plurality of flow channel grooves 132.

[0026] Specifically, by welding the insert 130 to the sidewalls of the groove 111 along both sides of the distribution direction of the channel groove 132, a firm fixation and seal between the insert 130 and the electrode frame 110 is achieved. The welding connection eliminates assembly gaps, preventing electrolyte or gas from leaking from the joint between the insert 130 and the groove 111 under operating pressure, ensuring the airtightness and liquid tightness of the channel system; at the same time, it enhances the overall structural integrity, improves the mechanical strength and vibration resistance of the end plates during long-term operation, and ensures the safe and stable operation of the electrolytic cell.

[0027] It should be noted that after welding all the inserts 130 on the pole frame 110 is completed, weld flaw detection is performed to ensure that there are no quality defects in the weld; then the end plate is precision machined.

[0028] In one possible implementation, the groove 111 has a single-sided bevel 112 for the insert 130 to be welded into the groove 111 for solder filling.

[0029] Specifically, by providing a single-sided bevel 112 on the groove 111, guidance and space are provided for welding the insert 130 and the electrode frame 110, facilitating the full filling of the connection gap between the insert 130 and the groove 111 by the solder. The bevel design improves welding accessibility, ensures penetration depth and weld continuity, and enhances welding quality and sealing reliability; at the same time, it reduces welding stress concentration, prevents crack formation, strengthens the structural strength and corrosion resistance of the connection, and ensures long-term stable operation of the end plate in an alkaline electrolytic environment.

[0030] In one possible implementation, the inlet and outlet channels 131 are in the shape of a capsule-shaped structure, with the length direction of the capsule-shaped structure parallel to the distribution direction of the multiple channel grooves 132.

[0031] Specifically, a capsule shape (elliptical or oblong hole) is used as the shape of the inlet and outlet flow channel 131. Its length direction is parallel to the distribution direction of multiple flow channel grooves 132, which can effectively increase the connection cross-sectional area between the flow channel and the block 130, improve the medium flow capacity, and improve the uniformity of the flow field distribution. At the same time, the capsule-shaped structure has low stress concentration, which can enhance the structural strength and fatigue resistance of the block 130 under high pressure. Its symmetrical geometry also facilitates the alignment with the bevel welding of the groove 111 of the pole frame 110, which is conducive to uniform filling of solder, improving welding sealing and manufacturing yield.

[0032] In one possible implementation, the flow channel 132 is a rectangular channel.

[0033] In one possible implementation, the width of the flow channel 132 is 0.2mm-2mm. For example, the width of the flow channel 132 can be any typical but non-limiting point value or a range between any two points, such as 0.2mm, 0.5mm, 1mm, 1.5mm, or 2mm. The length of the flow channel 132 can be any typical but non-limiting point value or a range between any two points, such as 1mm, 2mm, 5mm, or 10mm.

[0034] In one possible implementation, the length direction of the insert 130 is consistent with the distribution direction of the plurality of flow channel slots 132, and the length of the insert 130 is 2mm-10mm. For example, the length of the insert 130 can be any typical but non-limiting point value or an interval value between any two point values, such as 2mm, 5mm, 8mm, 10mm.

[0035] In one possible implementation, the number of flow channel slots 132 on the insert 130 is 4-10. For example, the number of flow channel slots 132 on the insert 130 can be 4, 5, 6, 8, or 10.

[0036] In one possible implementation, the pole frame 110 and the end plate 120 are welded together or are integrally formed.

[0037] Specifically, after completing the welding and finishing of all the inserts 130 on the pole frame 110, the plate block 120 of the flat plate structure is welded, and then nickel plating is performed.

[0038] Those skilled in the art should understand that the discussion of any of the above embodiments is merely exemplary and is not intended to imply that the scope of protection of this application is limited to these examples; within the framework of this application, the technical features of the above embodiments or different embodiments can also be combined, the steps can be implemented in any order, and there are many other variations of different aspects of one or more embodiments of this application as described above, which are not provided in detail for the sake of brevity.

[0039] One or more embodiments in this application are intended to cover all such substitutions, modifications, and variations that fall within the broad scope of this application. Therefore, any omissions, modifications, equivalent substitutions, improvements, etc., made within the spirit and principles of one or more embodiments in this application should be included within the protection scope of this application.

Claims

1. An electrolytic cell end plate for alkaline electrolytic hydrogen production, characterized in that, include: The pole frame (110) and the blocking plate (120) have an inner ring with a plurality of slots (111), each slot (111) having a block (130), the block (130) having an inlet and outlet channel (131) for connecting the inner and outer sides of the end pole plate, and the block (130) also having a plurality of channel grooves (132) located on its outer side and one end connected to the inlet and outlet channel (131).

2. The electrolytic cell end plate for alkaline electrolytic hydrogen production according to claim 1, characterized in that, The insert (130) is embedded in the groove (111) near the side of the inlet / outlet channel (131), and the insert (130) is attached to the side wall of the groove (111) on both sides along the distribution direction of the plurality of channel grooves (132).

3. The electrolytic cell end plate for alkaline electrolytic hydrogen production according to claim 2, characterized in that, The insert (130) is welded to the sidewall of the groove (111) on both sides along the distribution direction of the plurality of flow channel grooves (132).

4. The electrolytic cell end plate for alkaline electrolytic hydrogen production according to claim 3, characterized in that, The groove (111) has a single-sided bevel (112) for the filler metal of the insert (130) to be welded into the groove (111).

5. The electrolytic cell end plate for alkaline electrolytic hydrogen production according to any one of claims 1-4, characterized in that, The inlet and outlet channels (131) are in the shape of a capsule, and the length direction of the capsule is parallel to the distribution direction of the plurality of channel grooves (132).

6. The electrolytic cell end plate for alkaline electrolytic hydrogen production according to claim 5, characterized in that, The flow channel (132) is a rectangular channel.

7. The electrolytic cell end plate for alkaline electrolytic hydrogen production according to claim 6, characterized in that, The width of the flow channel (132) is 0.2mm-2mm.

8. The electrolytic cell end plate for alkaline electrolytic hydrogen production according to claim 7, characterized in that, The length direction of the insert (130) is consistent with the distribution direction of the plurality of flow channel grooves (132), and the length of the insert (130) is 2mm-10mm.

9. The electrolytic cell end plate for alkaline electrolytic hydrogen production according to any one of claims 1-4 and 6-8, characterized in that, The number of flow channel grooves (132) on the block (130) is 4-10.

10. The electrolytic cell end plate for alkaline electrolytic hydrogen production according to any one of claims 1-4 and 6-8, characterized in that, The pole frame (110) and the blocking plate (120) are welded together or are integrally formed.

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