In a newly developed hydrogen train for local transport, a pressure switch from WIKA plays an essential role. Within the scope of pressure monitoring, it performs the central safety function in the H2 supply system during the journey.
The benefits of hydrogen in rail transport are rather unknown to the general public. Even if the first trains with H2 fuel cells already are in operation. They are powered by non-electrified railway lines and replace the diesel trains that were used before.
Astonishing based on carbon fibre composite technology
The tank capacity for the hydrogen should be adapted to the distances. Among WIKA?s customers has specialised in individual fuel storage systems for H2 vehicles. Their cylindrical tanks derive from carbon fibre composite technology. They are therefore extremely robust yet have a relatively low weight compared to steel vessels.
Tanks of the type are also installed in the hydrogen-powered train mentioned in the beginning. This multiple-unit train, created for commuting traffic, is filled up with the hydrogen at a particular terminal. The tank pressure is 300 to 350 bar. While driving, it must be reduced to a single-digit value for the supply to the fuel cell. That is done with a pressure regulation unit downstream of the storage system.
Pressure switch in hydrogen-powered train switches the drive system off
Suitable for used in a new kind of hydrogen-powered train regarding safety ? the model PXA pressure switch from WIKA.
The pressure switch model PXA meets the requirements of the hydrogen-powered train application. With the monitoring the of tank pressure and pressure regulation in the hydrogen-powered train, the customer uses the pressure switch model PXA for the safety function. The miniature instrument switches off the H2 propulsion system in two cases, depending on the function:
if the tank is at risk of emptying
if the pressure becomes too high when the hydrogen is transferred to the propulsion system
Such an emergency protection may be realised with a pressure sensor and a software. But also for trains this solution will be very complicated. It is also rated with an increased risk of error than a switch-based safety function.
SIL-3 approval made the case for its use
The customer didn’t decide on the model PXA due to the measurement quality alone. The pressure switch was also considered right for the duty in the hydrogen-powered train due to the SIL-3 suitability. It thus easily meets the safety-related market requirements for the H2 application (SIL-2).
Flameproof enclosure (?Ex d?) and compact design
The PXA in addition has been created for ambient temperatures from -40 �C to +85 �C. In addition, the pressure switch has IECEx approval ?Ex d? (flameproof enclosure), which the customer requires as standard. A further benefit of this instrument: The PXA could be easily built-into the storage system because of its extremely compact design.
Note
Further information about hydrogen and on the pressure switch model PXA are available on the WIKA website. Should you have any questions, your contact will gladly gelp you.
Also read our posts
Wika develops pressure sensor for hydrogen-powered vehicles
Hydrogen mobility: Clean engines of the future offer the same convenience as engines today
Turning hydrogen into kilometres
Hydrogen and pressure sensors ? What must be observed?