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While there is various methods to measure the consumption of hydrogen (read our article: Hydrogen Measurements Techniques for more information), there is also numerous challenges and potential troubles linked to these methods that can be encountered and must be taken in account :
Hydrogen Gas Leakage and Contamination
Hydrogen is a highly permeable gas, and even small leaks in the system can significantly affect consumption measurements. It’s crucial to ensure the integrity of the system and properly seal any potential leakage points to avoid inaccuracies in consumption measurements. That’s why it is important to re-examine valves and piping materials. Plus is, as natural gases, hydrogen is odorless. To detect leakage points, a distinct odor is usually added to natural gases. The difference with hydrogen is that the addition of an odorant must be studied to be sure it doesn’t affect the composition nor properties.
Impurities or contaminants in the hydrogen gas stream can interfere with measurement accuracy. For instance, if the hydrogen contains traces of other gases, it may affect the readings of flow meters or gas chromatography analysis. It’s essential to use appropriate purification techniques and regularly maintain the gas stream to minimize impurities. This point is also challenging in that, depending on the expected level of measurement accuracy, few other points must be considered (way and cost of analysis, lead time and sample size, method validation depending on the country standards).
Effects of Temperature and Pressure Fluctuations
Changes in temperature and pressure can affect the volume and density of hydrogen gas, resulting in measurement inaccuracies. It’s important to consider the operating conditions and the positioning of the meter as the temperature of the measured fluid can change. We must investigate that influence to ensure accurate flow measurement, which is why the metering architecture must integrate secondary instrumentation such as temperature and pressure measurements.)
Calibration Drift and Instrument Accuracy
Measurement tools such as mass flow meters and gas chromatographs degrade over time, resulting in inaccurate readings.
To maintain accuracy:
- Use ISO 17025 accredited calibration facilities to ensure compliance
- Calibrate instruments using hydrogen-specific standards
- Track performance using digital maintenance logs
Sampling Method and Frequency Errors
When using gas chromatography or other sampling techniques, it’s crucial to ensure that the samples collected are representative of the overall gas stream. Improper sampling techniques or inadequate sampling frequency can introduce errors and affect the accuracy of consumption measurements.
Avoid this by:
- Training staff in representative gas sampling
- Increasing the frequency of sampling
- Ensuring proper containment to avoid contamination
Ensure Accuracy to Unlock Hydrogen’s Potential
Reliable hydrogen consumption measurement requires attention to multiple technical details. Ensuring system integrity, gas purity, proper instrument calibration, and representative sampling are all essential for accurate data and effective energy management.