In a newly developed hydrogen train for local transport, a pressure switch from WIKA plays a crucial 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 are already in operation. They operate on non-electrified railway lines and replace the diesel trains that were used before.
Tanks based on carbon fibre composite technology
The tank capacity for the hydrogen must be adapted to the distances. One of WIKA’s customers has specialised in individual fuel storage systems for H2 vehicles. Their cylindrical tanks are based on carbon fibre composite technology. They are therefore extremely robust and yet have a relatively low weight compared to steel vessels.
Tanks of this type are also installed in the hydrogen-powered train mentioned at the beginning. This multiple-unit train, designed for commuting traffic, is filled with the hydrogen at a special 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. This is done via a pressure regulation unit downstream of the storage system.
Pressure switch in hydrogen-powered train switches the drive system off
Suitable for use in a new type of hydrogen-powered train in terms of 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 in danger of emptying
- if the pressure becomes too high when the hydrogen is transferred to the propulsion system
Such an emergency protection could also be realised with a pressure sensor and a software. But for trains this solution would be very complicated. It is also rated with a higher risk of error than a switch-based safety function.
SIL-3 approval made the case for its use
The customer did not decide on the model PXA because of its measurement quality alone. The pressure switch was also considered right for the task in the hydrogen-powered train because of its 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 has also been designed 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 advantage of this instrument: The PXA could be easily integrated into the storage system thanks to its extremely compact design.
Note
Further information on the subject of hydrogen and on the pressure switch model PXA can be found on the WIKA website. If 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?