The British company Imperial Metal Industries plc. (IMI) has presented a new pressure protection system for hydrogen applications. The Hydrogen High-Integrity Pressure Protection System (HIPPS) protects against overpressure in hydrogen post-production processes, thereby securing downstream components and pipelines. It is considered the first of its kind on the market.
IMI has developed the new HIPPS specifically for overpressures that can occur during hydrogen production. The H2 pressure protection system isolates the source of the excessive pressure, thus securing downstream components and pipelines. This system contributes to the safe storage of hydrogen after production and before further transport.
Previously, excess pressure in the event of an overpressure incident was released from the plants into a safety container. According to the manufacturer, the H2 pressure protection system allows hydrogen producers to increase production capacity compared to conventional pressure relief valves in addition to ensuring safety. This enables a higher yield within a comparable timeframe compared to plants that do not use HIPPS.
The system uses electronic transmitters, which IMI has specially developed for hydrogen applications, and an electronic logic solver to detect potential overpressure. If excessive pressure occurs, fail-safe valves are activated within two seconds to isolate the exposure. This protects downstream facilities and personnel.
IMI Expands Hydrogen Technology Portfolio
The hydrogen HIPPS solution complements IMI's existing technology offerings to support the entire hydrogen value chain.
In addition to critical service valves for hydrogen applications, such as ball valves and butterfly valves, the engineering company also offers electrolyzers. In 2023, IMI launched the VIVO PEM electrolyzer, available in power classes ranging from 100 kW to 5 MW. Thanks to a "turnkey" configuration, which includes a high- or low-pressure storage, a compressor, and optionally a refueling station, the system can be fully tailored to the user's requirements.
