Water Main Turbine-Electrolysis for Distributed Hydrogen Production
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for producing hydrogen gas are environmentally unfriendly due to reliance on fossil fuels and are limited by the need for localized infrastructure, such as dams, which restrict distribution to the vicinity of the production site.
Innovation Solution
Utilize the untapped potential energy from existing water distribution systems by converting the pressure in water mains into electrical energy to power electrolysis, using turbines and generators to produce hydrogen gas, and distribute it through existing infrastructure.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Object-affected harmful factors
If hydrogen gas is produced by electrolysis using conventional power sources, then hydrogen gas can be generated, but the process is environmentally unfriendly due to reliance on fossil fuels
Solution Approach 1:
The water distribution system serves itself by using its own pressure energy to generate electricity for electrolysis. The system extracts power from the pressurized water flow that is already moving through the distribution pipes, eliminating the need for external fossil fuel-based power sources and enabling environmentally friendly hydrogen production.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent converts the wasted pressure energy in water distribution systems into useful electricity for hydrogen production. The pressure that would otherwise be lost or require energy-intensive regulation is captured and transformed into electrical power through turbines, turning a potential waste stream into a beneficial energy source.
2Adaptability or versatility
If hydrogen gas is produced at localized sites such as dams, then hydrogen can be generated, but distribution is limited to the vicinity of the production site
Solution Approach 1:
The water distribution system performs multiple functions: it continues to deliver water to consumers while simultaneously generating electricity for hydrogen production and providing a distribution network for the produced hydrogen. The existing infrastructure serves both its original purpose and a new energy production function, eliminating the need for separate localized production facilities.
Solution Approach 2:
The water distribution network acts as an intermediary that connects hydrogen production at one location to consumption at distant locations. By integrating electrolysis units along the water distribution pipes, the system uses the water network as a medium to both produce and transport hydrogen, extending distribution range beyond what would be possible with conventional localized production.
3Stress or pressure
If pressure relief valves are used to regulate water pressure in distribution systems, then water pressure is controlled, but energy is wasted
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the passive mechanical pressure relief valve with an active turbine-generator system. Instead of mechanically dissipating excess pressure through valve opening, the system uses a turbine to convert the pressure energy into electrical energy, which can then be used to power electrolysis for hydrogen production, eliminating the energy waste associated with traditional pressure regulation.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Provides a cost-effective and environmentally friendly method for generating and distributing hydrogen gas, overcoming distribution limitations and reducing energy waste in water pressure regulation.
Implementation Method 1
a turbine having an inlet adapted to receive pressurized water from a water main and an outlet
Implementation Method 2
a generator operably connected to the turbine and adapted to convert rotational energy from the turbine to produce electrical energy
Implementation Method 3
an electrolyzer adapted to electrolyze water and produce at least some hydrogen gas
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and systems for generating hydrogen gas from a source of pressurized water, for example, from an existing water main of a water distribution system, are provided. The methods and systems employ turbine/generators and water electrolyzers electrically powered by the turbine/generators. The turbine/generators are powered by the energy available in existing water distribution systems, for example, municipal, industrial, or agricultural systems, to access energy that typically is discarded, for example, via a pressure relief valve. The hydrogen gas generated may be used to fuel hydrogen powered vehicles, for example, cars, trucks, and forklifts, or as a fuel for power generation. Excess electrical energy produced by the generator may be distributed to the local power grid. Aspects of the invention may also be used to generate oxygen gas from the electrolysis of water, and then generate ozone gas from the oxygen gas for treating water, among other uses.