Custom fuel cell hoses

Due to the amount of specific operating conditions of the fuel cells sector, we offer customized silicone hoses to adapt to all the requirements of the sector.

Detecting the cause of the problem

A manufacturer of fuel cells was detecting important decreases in the performance of the hydrogen engine on the prototype test bench, which translated directly into the reduction of the engine's power.

After several tests and analysis of the problem, it was concluded that one of the possible causes could be the amount of volatiles that could migrate from the inner layer of the flexible connectors used to transport the reaction commodities (Hydrogen, Oxygen, and Water). In addition, a high level of dirt accumulated on the polymer membranes was observed, causing a reduction in the effective proton exchange surface and directly affecting the quality of the chemical reaction.

A customized solution for the problem

As the most effective solution, our engineers proposed to the customer the ideal construction with adequate materials for each specific application. Solving completely the contamination and dirt problems and improving the performance to place it at the maximum levels expected by the customer.

Solution 1: Hydrogen line

For the hydrogen line was basic to obtain the lowest levels of permeability and the highest levels of purity and cleanliness inside the product. For these requirements we consider that the best option was to offer the following solution due to its properties:

A fuel cell silicone hose reinforced with an inner layer special for gases.

Properties

The minimum level of volatiles

The perfectly smooth inner layer (minimum roughness, no imperfections or impurities)

Interior cleaning control + individual packaging

The minimum level of permeability to hydrogen gas

Pressed metal connections

Non-conductive materials

Solution 2: Oxygen and Water Lines

For the Oxygen and water lines, it's key to offer the maximum purity of the material and the maximum interior cleanliness. For this reason, we opted for fuel cells silicone hose reinforced with a high purity inner layer (pharmaceutical quality).

Maximum purity (minimum level of volatiles) - Test of extractables

The perfectly smooth inner layer (minimum roughness, no imperfections or impurities)

Interior cleaning control + individual packaging

Perfect compatibility with deionized water

Pressed metal connections

Non-conductive materials

Results and long term plan

The special constructions with the adequate materials for each specific application were key for the client in solving his inefficiency problems. The contamination and the dirt problems were avoided and the performance was considerably improved at the maximum levels expected by the customers.

We're working together in developing special constructions for future projects to assure maximum efficiency and profitability.