Hydrogen storage facilities and waste heat recovery systems

Abstract

To provide a hydrogen storage facility and a waste heat recovery system that recovers waste heat from a heating device and uses it to heat a hydrogen storage alloy. [Solution] A hydrogen storage facility comprising a hydrogen storage alloy 420 for absorbing and releasing hydrogen, a tank 410 in which the hydrogen storage alloy 420 is sealed, a heat medium path provided to circulate between the inside and outside of the tank 410 and through which a heat medium flows, and a discharge path 493 communicating with the outside of the tank 410 and through which the hydrogen flows. A waste heat recovery system 1 comprising the hydrogen storage facility and a heating device 110 for heating the contents 120, wherein the heating device 110 has a discharge path 292 for discharging a portion of the contents 120 as blown fluid W2, and a heat exchanger 321 is provided between the discharge path 292 and the heat medium path.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a hydrogen storage facility and a waste heat recovery system.

Background Art

[0002] In hydrogen storage facilities and the like, it is known that a storage method using a hydrogen storage alloy is applied as a means for storing hydrogen. This hydrogen storage alloy undergoes an exothermic reaction when absorbing hydrogen and an endothermic reaction when releasing hydrogen. Therefore, in order to promote the absorption and release of hydrogen, it is necessary to cool and heat the hydrogen storage alloy.

[0003] On the other hand, in recent years, the development of devices such as hydrogen boilers that operate using hydrogen as fuel, which are expected to be utilized in hydrogen storage facilities and the like, has been progressing. This hydrogen boiler can recover heat from blowdown water, similar to a general boiler.

[0004] Conventionally, for example, as disclosed in Patent Document 1 below, a hydrogen utilization system using a hydrogen storage alloy that absorbs hydrogen at a temperature of 40°C or lower and releases hydrogen at a temperature of 50°C or higher is known.

[0005] Also, for example, as disclosed in Patent Document 2 below, a drain recovery system that discharges drain water using steam generated in a boiler is known.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0006]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0007] However, there was a problem in that the waste heat generated from the boiler could not be used to raise the temperature of the hydrogen storage alloy.

[0008] The present invention aims to provide a hydrogen storage facility and a waste heat recovery system that recover waste heat from a heating device and utilize it for heating a hydrogen storage alloy. [Means for solving the problem]

[0009] The present invention has the following aspects. <1> A hydrogen storage alloy that absorbs and releases hydrogen, A tank containing the aforementioned hydrogen storage alloy, A heat medium path is provided to circulate the heat medium between the inside and outside of the tank, and the heat medium flows through this path. A hydrogen storage facility having a discharge path that communicates with the outside of the tank and through which the hydrogen flows. <2> <1> The hydrogen storage facilities described above, It is equipped with a heating device for raising the temperature of the contents, The heating device has a discharge path for discharging a portion of the contents as blow fluid. A waste heat recovery system is provided, in which a heat exchanger is installed between the discharge path and the heat transfer medium path. [Effects of the Invention]

[0010] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a hydrogen storage facility and a waste heat recovery system that recover waste heat from a heating device and utilize it for heating a hydrogen storage alloy. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1] This is a schematic diagram showing a waste heat recovery system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the control unit of a control device according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] This figure shows an example of processing performed by the control unit of the waste heat recovery system according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 4] It is a diagram showing the PCT curve of the hydrogen storage alloy according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0012] The hydrogen storage facility and the waste heat recovery system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1-4. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the waste heat recovery system 1 of the present embodiment. The arrows shown in FIG. 1 indicate the direction of the fluid flow. As shown in FIG. 1, the waste heat recovery system 1 is composed of a waste heat generation unit 100, a waste heat storage unit 200, a heat exchange unit 300, and a hydrogen storage unit 400.

[0013] <Waste heat generation unit> The waste heat generation unit 100 is a part where waste heat is generated along with the operation of the boiler (heating device) 110. The boiler 110 is a device that heats the content 120 by burning fuel and supplies it to the outside. This fuel is a gaseous fuel such as hydrogen, for example. Also, this content 120 is a heat medium such as water, for example. The boiler 110 is provided with three paths: a water supply path 191, a water discharge path 192, and a blow path 291, which are constructed by piping.

[0014] The water supply path 191 is a path through which the water supply W1 flows toward the boiler 110. An inlet for the boiler water 150 is provided upstream of the water supply path 191. This inlet for the boiler water 150 is a connection part with a path or device provided outside the waste heat recovery system 1 and is provided so that the water supply W1 can flow in. When the water supply W1 flowing into the water supply path 191 reaches the inside of the boiler 110, it is accommodated as the content 120 inside the boiler 110.

[0015] The drain passage 192 is a passage through which the discharged fluid W6 flows out from the boiler 110. A boiler drain port 160 is provided downstream of the drain passage 192. This boiler drain port 160 is a connection part to a passage or equipment provided outside the waste heat recovery system 1 and is provided so as to be able to supply the discharged fluid W6. The boiler 110 discharges the content 120 heated to the threshold value into the drain passage 192 as the discharged fluid W6. When the discharged fluid W6 reaches the boiler drain port 160, it is supplied outside the waste heat recovery system 1 and utilized for various purposes.

[0016] The blowdown passage 291 is a passage through which the blowdown water 220 is discharged. The other end of this blowdown passage 291 is connected to the flash tank 210 of the waste heat storage unit 200, and the boiler 110 and the flash tank 210 communicate with each other. Also, a flow meter (flow measuring instrument) 281 is arranged in the middle of the blowdown passage 291. This flow meter 281 is a general measuring instrument that measures the flow rate of the fluid passing through. The boiler 110 performs a blowdown process to remove impurities accumulated inside. This blowdown process is a process of discharging a certain amount of the content 120 inside the boiler 110 and replacing it with new content 120, and is executed at regular intervals. The blowdown water (blowdown fluid) W2 discharged into the blowdown passage 291 by the blowdown process is stored as blowdown water 220 inside the flash tank 210.

[0017] The materials and configurations of the feed water passage 191, the drain passage 192, and the blowdown passage 291 are not particularly limited as long as the heat medium can flow through. Also, the configuration and function of the boiler 110 are not particularly limited as long as it discharges high-temperature blowdown.

[0018] Note that the boiler 110 may be operated by electricity or may use fossil fuels such as petroleum. Also, the boiler 110 may be a special boiler provided so as to be able to heat a content 120 other than water. Furthermore, the boiler 110 may be another device, such as a water-cooled PC, that contains a working fluid as its contents 120 and has the function of discharging blowdown at a temperature above a certain level (for example, 50°C or higher, which allows the hydrogen storage alloy 420 in the embodiment to release hydrogen). In that case, the water discharge path 192 does not need to be provided.

[0019] <Heat Discharge Storage Section> The waste heat storage section 200 is a part that stores the waste heat generated as a result of the operation of the boiler 110. The waste heat storage unit 200 has a flash tank 210. This flash tank 210 is a device that separates the blowdown water 220 contained inside into liquid drain water W3 and low-pressure steam flash steam G1. The flash tank 210 has three paths constructed of piping: a blowdown path 291, a flash path (discharge path) 292, and a drain path 293.

[0020] The flash path 292 is the path through which the flash steam G1 is discharged. Downstream of the flash path 292 is the flash outlet 362 of the heat exchange section 300. This flash outlet 362 is a connection point to a steam exhaust port or an exhaust path located outside the waste heat recovery system 1, and is provided to discharge the flash steam G1. In the middle of the flash path 292, an exhaust heat exchanger (heat exchanger) 321 is located. This exhaust heat exchanger 321 is a common device that performs heat exchange between two opposing paths by placing a heat transfer element in the middle of the two paths. On the other side of the exhaust heat exchanger 321 is a part of the main heat transfer medium path (heat transfer medium path) 391 of the heat exchange section 300. The flash tank 210 discharges the high-temperature flash steam G1 separated from the blowdown water 220 into the flash path 292. The discharged flash steam G1 flows toward the flash outlet 362. Here, the flash steam G1 that reaches the exhaust heat exchanger 321 raises the temperature of the heat transfer medium path 391 which is arranged opposite it. After that, the flash steam G1 that has cooled down due to heat exchange becomes exhaust steam G2 and is discharged to the outside of the waste heat recovery system 1.

[0021] The drain path 293 is the path through which the drain water W3 is discharged. A drain recovery port 260 is provided downstream of the drain path 293. This drain recovery port 260 is a connection point to a path or device located outside the waste heat recovery system 1, and is provided to supply the drain water W3. The flash tank 210 discharges the high-temperature condensate W3 separated from the blowdown water 220 into the drain path 293. The discharged condensate W3 flows toward the drain recovery port 260. The condensate W3 that reaches the drain recovery port 260 is supplied to the outside of the waste heat recovery system 1.

[0022] The material and configuration of the flash tank 210 are not particularly limited, as long as they can accommodate and separate the blowdown water 220. Furthermore, the material and configuration of the flash path 292 and the drain path 293 are not particularly limited as long as the heat transfer medium can flow through them.

[0023] The drain path 293 or water supply device may also be equipped with a filter for impurities. In that case, the drain water W3 can be reused as water supply W1. Furthermore, the drain path 293 may have a heat exchanger in its intermediate section and be configured to raise the temperature of the heat transfer medium path 391 of the heat exchange section 300. Furthermore, the waste heat recovery system 1 does not necessarily have to be equipped with a flash tank 210. In that case, the blowdown path 291 of the boiler 110 has a flash outlet 362 at the other end and a waste heat exchanger 321 is located in the middle. Thus, the heat transfer medium main path 391 is heated by heat exchange with the blowdown water 220. Furthermore, the boiler 110 may be formed integrally with the flash tank 210. In that case, the blowdown path 291 is not constructed, and the boiler 110 supplies blowdown water 220 to the flash tank 210 located inside it. The flash tank 210, which is in communication with the boiler 110, discharges flash steam G1 to the flash path 292 and drain water W3 to the drain path 293, similar to the embodiment. Furthermore, the drain recovery port 260 may be a connection point to a water supply device that supplies water W1 to the boiler water inlet 150 of the boiler 110. In this case, the water supply device can recover waste heat by exchanging heat between the drain water W3 and the water W1.

[0024] <Heat exchange section> The heat exchange section 300 is the part that raises the temperature of the hydrogen storage section 400 using the waste heat generated as a result of the operation of the boiler 110. The heat exchange section 300 comprises three paths constructed of piping: a main heat transfer medium path 391, a secondary heat transfer medium path 392, and a heating path 393.

[0025] The main heat transfer medium path 391 is a path through which a heat transfer medium circulates. This heat transfer medium is a fluid such as water. Part of the main heat transfer medium path 391 is provided to pass inside the alloy tank (tank) 410 of the hydrogen storage unit 400. A pump 381, an exhaust heat exchanger 321, a main path valve 332, and a heat transfer medium thermometer 382 are also provided along the main heat transfer medium path 391. Pump 381 is a general-purpose electric pump for circulating liquid. The main heat transfer medium path 391 at the location where the exhaust heat exchanger 321 is located is positioned opposite a portion of the flash path 292. Pump 381 is located between the alloy tank 410 and the exhaust heat exchanger 321. The main path valve 332 is a general-purpose valve that can open and close the path. This main path valve 332 is located downstream of the exhaust heat exchanger 321. The heat transfer medium thermometer 382 is a general-purpose measuring instrument for measuring the temperature of the heat transfer medium. This heat transfer medium thermometer 382 is located between the main path valve 332 and the alloy tank 410.

[0026] The heat transfer fluid sub-path 392 is a path provided to branch off from the heat transfer fluid main path 391. One upstream end of the heat transfer fluid sub-path 392 is formed to branch off from a position between the exhaust heat exchanger 321 and the main path valve 332 of the heat transfer fluid main path 391, and is provided to communicate with the heat transfer fluid main path 391. The other downstream end of the heat transfer fluid sub-path 392 is formed to merge with a position between the main path valve 332 and the heat transfer fluid thermometer 382 of the heat transfer fluid main path 391, and is provided to communicate with the heat transfer fluid main path 391. Furthermore, a sub-path valve (valve) 331 and a heating step-up heat exchanger 322 are provided in the sub-path 392 of the heat transfer medium. The sub-path valve 331 is a general-purpose valve that can open and close the path. This sub-path valve 331 is located upstream of the heating step-up heat exchanger 322. The heating step-up heat exchanger 322 is a general-purpose device that performs heat exchange between two opposing paths by placing a heat transfer element in the middle of the two paths. A portion of the heating step-up path 393 is located on the other side of this heating step-up heat exchanger 322.

[0027] The heating path 393 is a path independent of the main heat transfer medium path 391 and the secondary heat transfer medium path 392, through which a heat transfer medium flows. This heat transfer medium is a fluid such as water. Upstream of the heating path 393, there is a heat transfer medium inlet 350. This heat transfer medium inlet 350 is a connection point to a path or equipment located outside the waste heat recovery system 1, and is provided to allow the flow of heating transfer medium W4, which is water heated by a heating device (not shown). A heating heat exchanger 322 is located in the heating path 393. A portion of the secondary heat transfer medium path 392 is located on the other side of this heating heat exchanger 322. Downstream of the heating path 393, there is a heat transfer medium outlet 361. This heat transfer medium outlet 361 is a heat transfer medium outlet or a connection point to a discharge path located outside the waste heat recovery system 1, and is provided to allow the discharge of the heat transfer medium. The heating medium W4, which has been cooled by heat exchange, becomes the discharged heat medium W5 and is discharged to the outside of the waste heat recovery system 1.

[0028] Here, the state in which the auxiliary valve 331 is open and the main valve 332 is closed is defined as the active heat input state. Also, the state in which the auxiliary valve 331 is closed and the main valve 332 is open is defined as the passive heat input state.

[0029] In the active heat input state, the pump 381 of the main heat medium path 391 causes the unheated heat medium H2 to flow from the alloy tank 410 toward the exhaust heat exchanger 321. Upon reaching the exhaust heat exchanger 321, the unheated heat medium H2, which has been heated by heat exchange with the flash steam G1, becomes the passive heat input medium H3. The passive heat input medium H3 flows upstream of the heat medium subpath 392 by passing through the open subpath valve 331 and flows toward the heating heat exchanger 322. Upon reaching the heating heat exchanger 322, the passive heat input medium H3, which has been further heated by heat exchange with the heating heat medium W4, becomes the active heat input medium H4. The active heat input medium H4 flows into the main heat medium path 391 from the downstream side of the heat medium subpath 392 and flows toward the alloy tank 410 as the heat input medium H5. The heat input fluid H5 that reaches the inside of the alloy tank 410 raises the temperature of the alloy tank 410 through heat exchange. The heat input fluid H5 that cools down through heat exchange becomes the unheated heat input fluid H2. Therefore, in the active heat input state, the heat transfer medium flowing through the heat exchange section 300 is heated by the flash steam G1 and the heating medium W4 via the exhaust heat exchanger 321 and the heating heat exchanger 322.

[0030] In the passive heat input state, the pump 381 of the main heat transfer medium path 391 causes the unheated heat transfer medium H2 to flow from the alloy tank 410 toward the exhaust heat exchanger 321. Upon reaching the exhaust heat exchanger 321, the unheated heat transfer medium H2, which has been heated by heat exchange with the flash steam G1, becomes the passive heat input medium H3. The passive heat input medium H3 passes through the open main path valve 332 and flows as the heat input medium H5 toward the alloy tank 410. The heat input medium H5, which has reached the inside of the alloy tank 410, raises the temperature of the alloy tank 410 by heat exchange. The heat input medium H5, which has been cooled by heat exchange, becomes the unheated heat transfer medium H2. Therefore, in the active heat input state, the heat transfer medium flowing through the heat exchange section 300 does not flow through the heat transfer medium sub-path 392 and is not heated by the heating medium W4, but is heated by the flash steam G1.

[0031] The materials and configurations of the main heat transfer fluid path 391, the secondary heat transfer fluid path 392, and the heating path 393 are not particularly limited as long as the heat transfer fluid can flow through them.

[0032] The secondary heat transfer fluid path 392 may be provided independently of the main heat transfer fluid path 391. In that case, the main heat transfer fluid path 391 and the secondary heat transfer fluid path 392 are each formed in paths that circulate within the interior of the alloy tank 410, and the temperature of the alloy tank 410 can be adjusted by operating a pump or heating equipment. Furthermore, the main heat transfer medium path 391 may have a configuration or path that can be opened and closed between it and the exhaust heat exchanger 321. In that case, the heat exchange section 300 can switch the execution of heating by flash steam G1, similar to the heating transfer medium W4. Furthermore, if it is possible to switch the heating process using flash steam G1, the heating medium W4 may be a low-temperature fluid cooled by a cooling means. In that case, the main heat medium path 391 can cool the alloy tank 410 to promote hydrogen storage of the hydrogen storage alloy 420. Furthermore, the heating path 393 may be a circulating path. In that case, the heat exchange section 300 can adjust the temperature of the alloy tank 410 by providing a temperature-adjusting device and a pump for heating or cooling the heat transfer medium.

[0033] <Hydrogen Storage Department> The hydrogen storage unit 400 is the part that stores and releases hydrogen that has been filled from the outside. The hydrogen storage unit 400 includes a steel alloy tank 410 containing a hydrogen storage alloy 420. This hydrogen storage alloy 420 is a quaternary alloy composed of, for example, Ti-Fe-Mn-Nb, and has the characteristic of absorbing hydrogen in the low-temperature range and releasing hydrogen in the high-temperature range. The alloy tank 410 is equipped with a tank thermometer (temperature measuring instrument) 481 for measuring the internal temperature. This tank thermometer 481 is a general measuring instrument for measuring temperature. Furthermore, the alloy tank 410 is configured to allow heat exchange, with a portion of the main heat medium path 391 through which the heat input heat medium H5 flows passing through the inside. The alloy tank 410 also includes a hydrogen main path 491 constructed of piping.

[0034] The hydrogen main path 491 is a path through which hydrogen flows, with one end communicating with the interior of the alloy tank 410 and the other end branching into two paths. The hydrogen main path 491 is equipped with a pressure gauge (pressure measuring instrument) 482 in the middle. This pressure gauge 482 is a general measuring instrument for measuring the pressure in the path. One of the branches of the hydrogen main path 491 communicates with the hydrogen filling path 492. A filling path valve 431 is provided at the connection point between the hydrogen filling path 492 and the hydrogen main path 491. The other branch of the hydrogen main path 491 communicates with the hydrogen release path (release path) 493. A release path valve 432 is provided at the connection point between the hydrogen release path 493 and the hydrogen main path 491. The filling path valve 431 and the release path valve 432 are general valves that can open and close the paths.

[0035] The hydrogen refueling path 492 is a piped path through which hydrogen flows. Upstream of the hydrogen refueling path 492 is a hydrogen refueling port 450. This hydrogen refueling port 450 is a connection point to a path or equipment located outside the waste heat recovery system 1, and is designed to allow hydrogen to flow in. Downstream of the hydrogen refueling path 492 is in communication with one of the branches of the main hydrogen path 491.

[0036] The hydrogen release path 493 is a piped path through which hydrogen flows. Downstream of the hydrogen release path 493 is a hydrogen outlet 460. This hydrogen outlet 460 is a connection point to a path or equipment located outside the waste heat recovery system 1 and is designed to release hydrogen. Upstream of the hydrogen release path 493 is in communication with the other branch of the main hydrogen path 491.

[0037] Here, the state in which the filling path valve 431 is open and the discharge path valve 432 is closed is defined as the hydrogen filling state. Also, the state in which the filling path valve 431 is closed and the discharge path valve 432 is open is defined as the hydrogen discharge state.

[0038] In the hydrogen-filled state, hydrogen H1 flows into the hydrogen filling path 492 from the hydrogen filling port 450. The hydrogen H1 flows from the hydrogen filling port 450 towards the alloy tank 410 through the hydrogen filling path 492 and the main hydrogen path 491. The hydrogen H1 that reaches the alloy tank 410 is contained inside the alloy tank 410 and absorbed into the hydrogen storage alloy 420.

[0039] In the hydrogen release state, the alloy tank 410 releases the hydrogen released from the hydrogen storage alloy 420 as released hydrogen H6 into the hydrogen main path 491. The released hydrogen H6 flows from the alloy tank 410 towards the hydrogen outlet 460 through the hydrogen main path 491 and the hydrogen release path 493. The released hydrogen H6 that reaches the hydrogen outlet 460 is released outside the waste heat recovery system 1.

[0040] The material and composition of the alloy tank 410 and the hydrogen storage alloy 420 are not particularly limited as long as they allow for the storage and release of hydrogen. Furthermore, the hydrogen main pathway 491, the hydrogen refueling pathway 492, and the hydrogen discharge pathway 493 are not particularly limited as long as hydrogen can be circulated through them.

[0041] The hydrogen filling path 492 and the hydrogen discharge path 493 may be independently provided paths. In that case, the filling path valve 431 and the discharge path valve 432 may not be provided, and the hydrogen filling state and the hydrogen discharge state may be switched by opening and closing operations on the alloy tank 410 side, or by operations on the hydrogen filling port 450 and the hydrogen discharge port 460 side. Furthermore, the hydrogen outlet 460 of the hydrogen discharge path 493 may be provided to communicate with the boiler 110. In that case, the boiler 110 operates using the hydrogen released by the hydrogen storage alloy 420 as fuel. At this time, the flash steam G1 separated from the blowdown water 220 discharged by the boiler 110 can promote the release of the hydrogen storage alloy 420, that is, the inflow of hydrogen into the boiler 110.

[0042] <Department Head> Figure 2 shows the functional configuration of the control unit 20 of the waste heat recovery system 1 of the embodiment. The waste heat recovery system 1 comprises a control unit 20 that controls the system, a processor such as a CPU, a memory capable of reading programs, a storage unit capable of storing programs and data, and a calculation unit that performs calculations on signals received from sensors and the like. The control unit 20 is configured to communicate with the waste heat generation unit 100, the waste heat storage unit 200, the heat exchange unit 300, and the hydrogen storage unit 400. As shown in Figure 2, the control unit 20 comprises a detection unit 21, a determination unit 22, an execution unit 23, an input unit 24, and a display unit 25. These components of the control unit 20 are each provided to communicate with each other.

[0043] The detection unit 21 is provided to communicate with external detectors and measuring instruments of the control unit 20, converts the acquired results, and transmits the calculation results to other components of the control unit 20. The detection unit 21 in this embodiment is configured to communicate with the flow meter 281, the heat transfer medium thermometer 382, ​​the tank thermometer 481, and the pressure gauge 482.

[0044] The determination unit 22 performs calculations based on the results converted by the detection unit 21 and the set threshold, determines whether or not to execute various processes, and transmits the determination result to other components of the control unit 20. The threshold value of the determination unit 22 in this embodiment is set by the operator via the input unit 24 and is provided to be changeable as appropriate.

[0045] The execution unit 23 is the part that reads and executes the saved program. The execution unit 23 of the embodiment is configured to communicate with the sub-path valve 331, the main path valve 332, the filling path valve 431, the discharge path valve 432, and the pump 381. These devices are electrically powered equipment that performs predetermined operations based on signals received from the execution unit 23. The execution unit 23 is configured to control the operation of the pump and the opening and closing of the valve based on determinations received from the determination unit 22 and the input unit 24.

[0046] The input unit 24 is provided so that an arbitrary value can be input by the operator of the waste heat recovery system 1, and transmits the input value to other components of the control unit 20. In this embodiment, the input unit 24 receives a stop command, for example, when an operator operates an operation switch provided on the heat recovery system 1, and transmits it to the execution unit 23. The input unit 24 also receives a threshold value for the determination unit 22, for example, when an operator operates a tablet terminal capable of communicating with the heat recovery system 1, and transmits it to the determination unit 22.

[0047] The display unit 25 is the part that displays the status of the waste heat recovery system 1. The display unit 25 of this embodiment displays, for example, the environmental status acquired by the detection unit 21, the determination result calculated by the determination unit 22, the execution status of the execution unit 23, and the input interface of the input unit 24 on the display of a tablet terminal that can communicate with the waste heat recovery system 1.

[0048] <System Processing> Figure 3 shows an example of the processing performed by the control unit 20 of the waste heat recovery system 1 when hydrogen is being released. The control unit 20 operates the waste heat recovery system 1 by executing the process shown in Figure 2. The process shown in Figure 2 will be explained in detail according to the procedure flow. In Figure 2, the main path valve 332 corresponds to V1, the secondary path valve 331 to V2, and the discharge path valve 432 to V3.

[0049] The control unit 20 starts operation when it receives a flag (operation command) from the operator via the input unit 24 to start processing. The display unit 25 then notifies the operator of the start of work and the environmental status, etc.

[0050] Next, the execution unit 23 closes the filling path valve 431 and opens the discharge path valve 432. At this time, the hydrogen storage unit 400 enters a hydrogen discharge state.

[0051] Next, the execution unit 23 executes the operation of the pump 381. At this time, heat exchange between the heat input fluid H5 and the alloy tank 410 begins.

[0052] Here, the determination unit 22 makes a determination about whether the temperature rise of the passive heat input fluid H3 by the flash steam G1 is excessive or insufficient, based on the value of the flow meter 281 detected by the detection unit 21 and the threshold value set by the input unit 24. When the value of the flow meter 281 is above the threshold, the execution unit closes the sub-path valve 331 and opens the main path valve 332, as the flow rates of the blowdown water W2 and flash steam G1 are sufficient. At this time, the heat exchange unit 300 enters a passive heat input state, and the hydrogen storage unit 400 is heated solely by the heat rise from the flash steam G1. When the value of the flow meter 281 is below the threshold, the flow rates of the blowdown water W2 and flash steam G1 are insufficient, so the execution unit 23 opens the sub-path valve 331 and closes the main path valve 332. At this time, the heat exchange unit 300 enters an active heat input state, promoting the temperature rise of the hydrogen storage unit 400. While the pump 381 is operating, the determination unit 22 repeatedly performs this determination.

[0053] Here, the determination unit 22 makes a determination about whether the alloy tank 410 has heated up too much or too little, based on the value of the tank thermometer 481 detected by the detection unit 21 and the threshold value set by the input unit 24. When the value of the tank thermometer 481 is above the threshold, the temperature of the alloy tank 410 is above the optimal value for hydrogen release, so the execution unit closes the sub-path valve 331 and opens the main path valve 332. At this time, the heat exchange unit 300 enters a passive heat input state, and the hydrogen storage unit 400 is heated solely by the heat rise from the flash steam G1. When the value of the tank thermometer 481 is below the threshold, the temperature of the alloy tank 410 is below the optimal value for hydrogen release, so the execution unit 23 opens the sub-path valve 331 and closes the main path valve 332. At this time, the heat exchange unit 300 enters an active heat input state, promoting the temperature rise of the hydrogen storage unit 400. While the pump 381 is operating, the determination unit 22 repeatedly performs this determination.

[0054] Here, the determination unit 22 makes a determination about whether the heating of the alloy tank 410 is excessive or insufficient, based on the value of the heat medium thermometer 382 detected by the detection unit 21 and the threshold value set by the input unit 24. When the value of the heat transfer medium thermometer 382 is above the threshold, the temperature of the heat input medium H5 is sufficiently high, so the execution unit closes the sub-path valve 331 and opens the main path valve 332. At this time, the heat exchange unit 300 enters a passive heat input state, and the hydrogen storage unit 400 is heated solely by the heating from the flash steam G1. When the value of the heat transfer medium thermometer 382 is below the threshold, the temperature of the heat input medium H5 is insufficient, and the execution unit 23 opens the sub-path valve 331 and closes the main path valve 332. At this time, the heat exchange unit 300 enters an active heat input state, promoting the temperature rise of the hydrogen storage unit 400. While the pump 381 is operating, the determination unit 22 repeatedly performs this determination.

[0055] Here, the determination unit 22 makes a determination about whether the heating of the alloy tank 410 is excessive or insufficient, based on the value of the pressure gauge 482 detected by the detection unit 21 and the threshold value set by the input unit 24. When the pressure gauge 482 reading exceeds a threshold, the execution unit determines that sufficient hydrogen can be released and closes the sub-path valve 331 and opens the main path valve 332. At this time, the heat exchange unit 300 enters a passive heat input state, and the hydrogen storage unit 400 is heated solely by heating from the flash steam G1. When the pressure gauge 482 reading is below a threshold, the execution unit 23 determines that further heating is necessary and opens the sub-path valve 331 and closes the main path valve 332. At this time, the heat exchange unit 300 enters an active heat input state, promoting release by heating the hydrogen storage unit 400. While the pump 381 is operating, the determination unit 22 repeatedly performs this determination.

[0056] Next, the determination unit 22 determines the completion of the work based on the termination conditions set in advance by the input unit 24 (for example, after a certain amount of time has elapsed since the start of the work).

[0057] Next, the execution unit 23 executes the operation of the pump 381. At this time, the heat exchange between the heat input fluid H5 and the alloy tank 410 is completed. Then, the display unit 25 notifies the operator of the start of work and the environmental status, etc.

[0058] The above demonstrates that the waste heat recovery system 1 is capable of recovering the waste heat generated in the waste heat generation unit 100 as a means of raising the temperature of the hydrogen storage alloy 420.

[0059] Furthermore, the waste heat recovery system 1 may be configured to perform the hydrogen filling process. In that case, the waste heat recovery system 1 is equipped with a cooling means for the alloy tank 410 and the hydrogen storage alloy 420, and the process can be performed by operating a valve and a pump 381.

[0060] <Characteristics of hydrogen storage alloys> Figure 4 shows the PCT curve T1 of the hydrogen storage alloy 420, which is made of a Ti-Fe-Mn-Nb quaternary alloy according to the embodiment. The horizontal axis of the PCT curve T1 represents the amount of hydrogen stored, and the vertical axis represents the absolute pressure. The PCT curve T1 also shows the measurement results for three temperature conditions of the hydrogen storage alloy 420: 20°C storage T11, 40°C storage T12, and 50°C release T13. In the 20°C storage T11 and 40°C storage T12 conditions, the hydrogen storage alloy 420 is in a state of absorbing hydrogen. On the other hand, in the 50°C release T13 condition, the hydrogen storage alloy 420 is in a state of releasing hydrogen.

[0061] Comparing hydrogen storage conditions T11 at 20°C and T12 at 40°C, it can be seen that hydrogen storage alloy 420 can store hydrogen more effectively under the conditions of T11 at 20°C. Furthermore, the pressure generated at 20°C storage T11 is significantly lower than that at 40°C storage T12, and is approximately the same as atmospheric pressure. Here, in the hydrogen filling process, if the pressure inside the alloy tank 410 is high, the inflow rate of the filled hydrogen H1 decreases. Therefore, it can be said that the lower the pressure generated by the hydrogen storage alloy 420, the more effectively hydrogen can be absorbed.

[0062] The 50°C release T13 indicates that the release process can be performed by raising the temperature of the hydrogen storage alloy 420 to 50°C. Here, if the pressure inside the alloy tank 410 is high, the flow rate of the released hydrogen H6 will increase. On the other hand, if the pressure inside the alloy tank 410 and the passage increases excessively as the temperature rises, safety valves and other equipment will be activated. Therefore, in the release process, it is preferable to raise the temperature of the hydrogen storage alloy 420 to approximately 50°C.

[0063] Therefore, the waste heat recovery system 1 of this embodiment raises the temperature of the hydrogen storage alloy 420 to approximately 50°C.

[0064] Furthermore, the material and properties of the hydrogen storage alloy 420 are not particularly limited as long as it can absorb and release hydrogen. For example, it may be a Ca-based alloy or a Pd-based alloy.

[0065] As described above, the hydrogen storage facility according to this embodiment includes a hydrogen storage alloy 420 that absorbs and releases hydrogen, an alloy tank 410 in which the hydrogen storage alloy 420 is sealed, a heat medium path provided to circulate between the inside and outside of the alloy tank 410 and through which a heat medium flows, and a hydrogen release path 493 that communicates with the outside of the alloy tank 410 and through which the hydrogen flows. Therefore, hydrogen storage facilities can store hydrogen easily and efficiently.

[0066] The waste heat recovery system 1 according to this embodiment comprises a hydrogen storage facility and a heating device 110 for heating the contents 120. The heating device 110 has a flash path 292 for discharging a portion of the contents 120 as blown water W2, and a heat exchanger 321 is provided between the flash path 292 and the heat transfer medium path. Therefore, the waste heat recovery system 1 contributes to reducing energy consumption and environmental impact by recovering waste heat.

[0067] Furthermore, the waste heat recovery system 1 can recover waste heat from both the flash steam G1 and drain water W3 generated by the blowdown water 220 of the heating device 110. Therefore, the waste heat recovery system 1 effectively contributes to reducing energy consumption and environmental impact.

[0068] Furthermore, the waste heat recovery system 1 may include means for raising the temperature of the hydrogen storage alloy 420 in addition to recovering waste heat. Therefore, the waste heat recovery system 1 can efficiently perform hydrogen release treatment while contributing to the reduction of energy consumption and environmental impact.

[0069] Furthermore, the execution unit 23 of the waste heat recovery system 1 can interrupt the heating process using the heating medium W4 if the flow rate of the flash steam G1 is sufficient. Therefore, the waste heat recovery system 1 can more effectively reduce the time required of operators or workers while contributing to a reduction in energy consumption and environmental impact.

[0070] Furthermore, the execution unit 23 of the waste heat recovery system 1 can switch the execution of heating using the heating medium W4 based on the value acquired by the detection unit 21. Therefore, the waste heat recovery system 1 can more effectively contribute to reducing energy consumption and environmental impact while effectively reducing the time required of the operator or worker.

[0071] Furthermore, the execution unit 23 of the waste heat recovery system 1 can perform heating using the heating medium W4 if the flow rate of flash steam G1 is insufficient. Therefore, the waste heat recovery system 1 can perform processing more efficiently while effectively contributing to the reduction of energy consumption and environmental impact.

[0072] Furthermore, the waste heat recovery system 1 can be constructed as a small-scale facility. Therefore, the waste heat recovery system 1 can be applied in various forms depending on the application.

[0073] Furthermore, the waste heat recovery system 1 can utilize the recovered waste heat within the system. Therefore, the waste heat recovery system 1 can more effectively contribute to reducing energy consumption and environmental impact while easily utilizing the recovered waste heat.

[0074] Although embodiments of the hydrogen storage facility and waste heat recovery system according to the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described above and can be modified as appropriate without departing from the spirit of the invention.

[0075] The Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are 17 international goals adopted at the UN Summit in September 2015. The waste heat recovery system 1 according to this embodiment can contribute to achieving some of the 17 SDGs, such as goal 13, "Take urgent action to combat climate change and its impacts." [Explanation of Symbols]

[0076] 1. Waste heat recovery system 20 Control Unit 21 Detection unit 23 Execution Department 110 Boiler (heating device) 120 Contents 210 Flush Tank 281 Flow meter (flow measuring instrument) 292 Flush path (discharge path) 321 Discharge heat exchanger, 392 Heating heat exchanger (heat exchanger) 331 Sub-path valve (valve) 381 Pump 391 Main heat transfer fluid path, 392 Secondary heat transfer fluid path (heat transfer fluid path) 393 Temperature rise pathway 410 Alloy Tank (Tank) 420 Hydrogen storage alloy 481 Tank thermometer (temperature measuring instrument) 482 Pressure gauge (pressure measuring instrument) 493 Hydrogen release pathway (release pathway) G1 Flash Steam W2 Blow-flow water (blow-fluid)

Claims

1. Hydrogen storage alloys that absorb and release hydrogen, A tank containing the aforementioned hydrogen storage alloy, A heat medium path is provided to circulate the heat medium between the inside and outside of the tank, and the heat medium flows through this path. Having a discharge path that communicates with the outside of the tank and through which the hydrogen flows, Hydrogen storage facility.

2. A hydrogen storage facility according to claim 1, It is equipped with a heating device for raising the temperature of the contents, The heating device has a discharge path for discharging a portion of the contents as blow fluid. A heat exchanger is provided between the discharge path and the heat transfer medium path. Waste heat recovery system.

3. The aforementioned discharge path includes a flash tank that communicates with the heating device. The aforementioned flash tank is The blow-off fluid discharged from the heating device is contained within the device. The flash vapor generated by the blowdown fluid is discharged towards the discharge path. The waste heat recovery system according to claim 2.

4. A heating path is provided through which the heat medium at a higher temperature than the heat medium path flows. The heat transfer medium path has a plurality of heat exchangers, At least one of the heat exchangers is provided between the heat transfer medium path and the heating path. The waste heat recovery system according to claim 2.

5. It is equipped with a control unit that controls the operation, The aforementioned heat transfer medium path is A pump for flowing the heat transfer medium, A valve that opens and closes is provided, which is located in a path that passes through the heat exchanger provided between the heating path and the aforementioned heating path. The control unit, A detection unit for detecting the flow rate of the blowdown fluid, It has an execution unit that performs the operation of the valve and the pump, The execution unit and the detection unit are provided to communicate with each other. The detection unit has a flow rate measuring instrument for measuring the flow rate of the blowdown fluid. The execution unit closes the valve when the flow rate of the blow-off fluid is above a threshold. The waste heat recovery system according to claim 4.

6. The detection unit, A temperature measuring instrument for measuring the temperature of the tank and the heat transfer medium path, The system includes a pressure measuring instrument for measuring the pressure inside the tank, The execution unit performs the operation of the valve and the pump based on the temperature of the tank and the heat transfer medium path, the pressure inside the tank, and a set threshold value, as detected by the detection unit. The waste heat recovery system according to claim 5.

7. The execution unit opens the valve when the flow rate of the blow-off fluid detected by the detection unit is below a threshold. The waste heat recovery system according to claim 5.

8. The heating device is formed integrally with the flash tank. The waste heat recovery system according to claim 3.

9. The aforementioned discharge path is connected to the heating device, The aforementioned heating device is The discharge path is connected to the hydrogen storage facility, The aforementioned discharge path is provided to operate using the released hydrogen as fuel. The waste heat recovery system according to claim 2.

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