Valves in action -
Steam trap KA 2 ATEX H2
Safe discharge of condensate from a hydrogen fuel cell
The expansion of renewable energies is an important strategic element in achieving global climate protection targets. Hydrogen offers opportunities to accelerate the decarbonization of the energy supply. In particular, electric mobility powered by hydrogen fuel cells will play an important role in the future.
Before the market launch of such vehicles, the hydrogen fuel cells undergo various load tests. A German research center for solar energy and hydrogen runs test fields for stacks and system components with this technology. Among other things, a 100-kilowatt hydrogen fuel cell is operated there day and night, capable of covering a weekly driving distance of more than 5,600 km.
TASK // Safe discharge of condensate from a hydrogen fuel cell
The fuel cell converts chemical energy directly into electrical energy. With the particularly efficient cold combustion, the hydrogen reacts with oxygen as an oxidant, and water, electricity and heat are produced.
The fuel cell consists of two electrodes separated by a membrane. The hydrogen splits into electrons and protons through a catalyst at the negatively charged anode. The released electrons travel via the electrical conductor to the positively charged cathode. This flow of electrons is used as a current. The positively charged protons diffuse through the membrane to the cathode on the other side of the cell. Here, the incoming oxygen molecules are reduced to negatively charged oxygen ions with the help of the incoming electrons. These in turn react with the diffused protons thus producing water vapor, which is safely discharged by the KA 2 ATEX H2 steam trap.
SOLUTION // Steam trap KA 2 ATEX H2 for use in potentially explosive atmospheres
Hydrogen is an elementary gas which, in contact with oxygen, reacts easily with very low energy. In this explosive atmosphere, the KA 2 ATEX H2 steam trap from Mankenberg ensures the safe discharge of the resulting condensates. The valve complies with the ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU and can therefore be used safely in Zone 1 hazardous areas.
The body is equipped with a grounding lug for potential equalization. The float-controlled valve is made entirely of stainless steel (1.4404/316L) and has excellent corrosion resistance to aggressive condensate. The soft seal ensures a gas-tight valve closure. The fuel cell technology is reliable, quiet and has a very good efficiency. The research center relies on Mankenberg in its search for innovative technical solutions for decarbonization using the high-quality and durable KA 2 ATEX H2 on its test benches.
