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In hydrogen electrolysis with water, the latter is enriched with a liquid that makes ion transport possible. Electrical energy is then supplied to the mixture via two electrodes. The water then splits into the components hydrogen and oxygen at one electrode. While the oxygen rises to the top, the hydrogen ions migrate to the other electrode. There they are converted into gaseous hydrogen. Both the pure hydrogen and the oxygen have special requirements for the valve technology that controls this process.

In steam methane reforming, steam is used to convert methane into hydrogen and carbon dioxide. Valves have the task of ensuring the precise dosing of steam and methane in order to control the reaction and achieve the desired yield of hydrogen. The extended temperature range must be taken into account in the valve technology.

In various hydrogen production processes, valves must be used to separate the hydrogen from other gases. This can be done by pressure swing adsorption, membrane separation or other methods in which valves regulate the flow of gases.

Many hydrogen production processes generate high temperatures that need to be controlled. Valves are used to control cooling fluids or heat transfer media to maintain the temperature at the desired level and extend the life of the equipment. The carrier media require suitable, reliable sealing materials.

Hydrogen production often requires high pressures, especially during hydrogen liquefaction. Valves regulate the pressure in the various stages of the process and ensure the safety of the system. The demands on metallic housing materials and sealing materials are enormous. Both possible hydrogen embrittlement and explosive decompression must be taken into account.

High pressures require a high level of expertise, intensive engineering services and intensive, verifiable tests.

When transporting hydrogen, high pressures are often needed to transport the required amount of hydrogen. Valves are used to regulate the pressure in the tanks or pipelines and ensure that it remains within safe limits. The demands on metallic housing materials and sealing materials are enormous. Both possible hydrogen embrittlement and explosive decompression must be taken into account.

High pressures require a high level of expertise, intensive engineering services and intensive, verifiable tests.

Valves are used to control and interrupt the flow of hydrogen. This is particularly important when filling and emptying tankers, during repair work or in emergencies.

Depending on how hydrogen is transported, e.g. by pipeline, tanker, refuelling station or ship (LOHC), different types of valves are required to meet the specific requirements of each means of transport.

Valves play an essential role in the storage of hydrogen, whether in large tank farms, underground storage facilities or smaller containers. They enable precise control of the pressure, flow and temperature of the hydrogen and help to minimise safety risks.

Safety is of paramount importance in hydrogen storage facilities. Safety valves monitor the pressure in the storage tanks and containers and can safely release excess gas to prevent pressure increases and thus protect the systems from possible explosions.

Hydrogen refuelling stations require valves to transfer the hydrogen safely into the vehicle tanks. These valves must be robust and enable fast and safe refuelling. Block solutions with other integrated components such as sensors are often used for a cascade system or multiple refuelling points.

These customised solutions are planned, developed, designed and supported in collaboration with the customer.

Valves are used in hydrogen power plants to regulate the flow of hydrogen and control combustion or utilisation in fuel cells. They help to maximise the efficiency of energy generation.

The energy efficiency of the valves is of greater importance when used with fuel cells.

In various industrial applications, such as metallurgy or the chemical industry, hydrogen is used as a reducing agent or raw material. Valves are crucial for controlling the flow of hydrogen in these processes and ensuring that the desired chemical reactions take place.