Whether in the electrolysis of water, compression in high-pressure containers or distribution via mobile trailers or filling stations – hydrogen is highly reactive and is often handled under enormous pressure. The molecule is also very small, which makes it more susceptible to leakage. Reliability is the top priority for all applications in the hydrogen value chain. After all, in an emergency, people, systems, and budgets can be put at risk. This means that processes are sensitive at every stage of the value chain. It is important to keep these aspects in mind:
If you cut corners here or consider requirements too late, you not only risk delays – but also expensive retrofits. Find out how you can minimize risks right from the start with a reliable safety concept in our blog post on functional safety using the example of hydrogen production.
Traditional installations in the chemical and process industry often rely on individual valves mounted directly on the drive. Numerous valves, sensors, and controllers mean a high density of interfaces. Modern hydrogen systems often rely on modular units. While this facilitates integration into the overall system, this approach also increases the complexity of the individual modules. Without a consistent system architecture, this often leads to:
This can be prevented with an ingenious architecture and the right products. Compact valve manifolds are a real game changer here: lower installation and maintenance costs, centralized diagnostic options, and high modularity for later adaptations and expansions.
One example: compact, modular valve control solutions such as VTUG or CPX-MPA combine the controller, valves, and monitoring in one system. Depending on the application, they meet SIL requirements, are particularly suitable for harsh environments, and can be used not only in stationary but also in mobile applications.
The hydrogen market is growing rapidly. A glance at the EU hydrogen strategy alone (target: 40 GW electrolysis capacity by 2030) shows this: The technical infrastructure must be scalable. Without a standardized automation architecture, thefollowing threats can arise:
Choosing an ingenious and uniform architecture at an early stage is the best protection against these problems. We will be happy to assist you in this. Whether we are talking about a ready-to-install control cabinet system, certified valve technology, modular pneumatics, or engineering support across all project phases – so that your system is safe, efficient and scalable right from the start.
The challenges of automating hydrogen processes are real – but solvable. Choosing the right partners and concepts from the outset reduces risks, accelerates projects, and creates a basis for long-term success.
What is important here: