Simulated PEM Electrolysis Hydrogen Production Demonstrator
- The Simulated PEM Electrolysis Hydrogen Production Demonstrator is a state-of-the-art educational tool designed to provide engineering students with hands-on experience in clean energy production.
- Focuses on the production of hydrogen from excess wind power using PEM electrolysis.
- It offers a safe and interactive environment for students to explore the principles of hydrogen production, water purification, electrolysis, gas separation, and more.
- The system includes a simulated PEM electrolysis unit, a reverse osmosis water purification system, and static models for hydrogen purification and storage.
- The control system features a PLC with an HMI (Human Machine Interface) and a power distribution mimic board to simulate various power inputs (grid, solar, wind).
- The HMI includes a password-protected instructor setup page for creating simulated scenarios and troubleshooting exercises.
- QR codes on all process equipment provide students with additional information and learning resources.
Key Features
Safe and Interactive: The demonstrator uses compressed air and water to simulate PEM electrolysis, ensuring a safe learning environment.
Realistic Scale: Built at a realistic scale (floor area 5m x 3m, 2.2m high) to provide students with an authentic experience.
Comprehensive Learning: Covers all aspects of hydrogen production from PEM electrolysis, including water purification, gas separation, hydrogen cleaning, storage, and safety.
Troubleshooting and Problem-Solving: Instructor-activated scenarios allow students to troubleshoot various alarm conditions and propose solutions.
Hands-On Experience: Students can start up, run, and shut down the process using the HMI and manual valves.
Detailed Electrolyser Model: A large, 75kg electrolyser model can be dismantled to show the construction of individual cells.
Reverse Osmosis System: A working reverse osmosis system demonstrates water purification for the electrolysis process.
Hydrogen Purification and Storage: Static models represent the hydrogen purification and storage process, including de-oxidizer, dryer vessels, and a gas storage cylinder.
Compressor Control Panel: Simulates compressor operation (no actual compressor included).
VR Application (Optional): An optional VR application for Oculus headsets provides an immersive virtual reality experience with interactive learning and Q&A.
Learning Outcomes
- Understand the concept of hydrogen production from PEM electrolysis.
- Learn about water/gas separation, water purification, electrolysis, and hydrogen cleaning.
- Gain knowledge of hydrogen storage and safety.
- Understand the impact of power supply fluctuations (grid, solar, wind) on hydrogen production.
- Learn about hazardous areas, ventilation, and ATEX-rated equipment.
- Develop hands-on skills in operating, troubleshooting, and maintaining a hydrogen production system.
Benefits for Engineering Students
- Provides a practical understanding of clean energy production and hydrogen technology.
- Enhances problem-solving and troubleshooting skills.
- Offers a safe and controlled environment for hands-on learning.
- Prepares students for careers in the rapidly growing field of renewable energy.