Inclination Sensors Transport Hydrogen Safely

Related Vendors

a.b.jödden gmbh

FAULHABER Drive Systems

Wuxi InfiMotion Technology Co., Ltd.

In the transport of hydrogen, safety and efficiency are crucial. High-precision inclination sensors are an indispensable tool in the hydrogen transport sector, helping to meet these requirements.

The use of hydrogen as an energy carrier plays a crucial role in the transition to a more sustainable energy future. Hydrogen transport and storage are essential components of this value chain. Safety and efficiency are central requirements in this context. High-precision inclination sensors can be a key technology to meet these demands, as they can significantly enhance the monitoring and control of transport processes.

Chemical And Physical Characteristics

But why must inclination be monitored during hydrogen transport? On a chemical and physical level, there are characteristics that can lead to significant problems if mishandled.

• For example, hydrogen is the lightest and smallest element in the periodic table. Due to its low density and high diffusion rate, hydrogen can escape through small openings and pores, increasing the risk of leaks. Inclinations can potentially exacerbate these risks, especially when hydrogen is in liquid form.

• Furthermore, liquid hydrogen is stored and transported at extremely low temperatures (around –423 °F). These temperatures require special materials and insulation to minimize evaporation and energy losses. An inclination can affect the temperature distribution within the tank, leading to uneven thermal stresses and potentially contributing to the formation of cracks or leaks.

• The very low boiling point of –252.9 °C (–423 °F) poses an additional risk in closed containers. Even minor heat input can cause the hydrogen to vaporize. If the transport container is inclined, the liquid phase can separate from the gaseous phase, favoring an uneven pressure build-up, which could in turn lead to the failure of seals or safety valves.

• The high chemical reactivity also presents challenges for designers. In the presence of catalysts, hydrogen embrittlement can occur, where adjacent metals lose their ductility. An inclination can further increase mechanical stresses and deformations in the materials, which collectively heighten the likelihood of cracks and fractures in the transport containers.

• Hydrogen belongs to the group of highly flammable substances and forms explosive mixtures with air in the concentration range of 4 to 75 percent by volume. Inclination could lead to local concentrations that fall within the explosive range. A spark or static discharge could then trigger an explosion.

KAS4000 Series Inclination Sensors

These points clearly emphasize the necessity for precise monitoring and control of inclination angles in hydrogen transportation. Suitable sensors are widely used and differ in many aspects. Generally, it can be said that inclination sensors, by definition, measure an object's angle relative to gravity. They often operate based on MEMS (Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems) and function with high precision. Typically, they consist of a sensing element that responds to changes in inclination and an electronic evaluation unit that processes and forwards the signals.

An example of this is the new KAS4000 series from Swiss producer Kelag Künzli, distributed by sensor specialists a.b.Jödden in Krefeld. This model series features the typical characteristics of its predecessors and adds some functions that can play a significant role, especially in transportation. The dual-axis inclination and acceleration sensors measure statically (inclination) and dynamically (acceleration). The angle measurement is sinus-compensated. A high repeatability of 0.01% and high long-term stability of 0.03%/a are the result of a new, unique technology.

Advanced Construction in Three Layers

The sensors are based on advanced "Micro Machined" technology built in three layers. This three-dimensional structure is hermetically sealed with glass inlays. This complex construction results in a long-term stable, high-resolution, and shock-resistant sensor. Gas damping reduces vibrations and prevents overshoot and disruptive resonance oscillations.

Special Requirements for Hydrogen Transport

The integration of inclination sensors in hydrogen transport requires meeting specific requirements:

• Precision and sensitivity: Sensors must be extremely precise and sensitive to reliably detect even the smallest inclination changes.

• Robustness and reliability: Since the sensors operate in challenging environments, they must be robust and reliable against vibrations, temperature fluctuations, and mechanical stress.

• Safety standards: The sensors must comply with the strict safety and explosion protection requirements of the hydrogen transport sector.

Enclosure With Protection Class IP68

Precise and reliable measurements are readily achievable with this type of sensor technology. The safety aspect is also addressed: the entire assembly is fully encapsulated in a housing made from solid, impact-resistant POM (polyoxymethylene), and the M8 connector is sealed. This construction already achieves protection class IP68. If an explosion protection class is desired, additional certified housings with optical passages can be used. This allows the use of the latest Quality of Life feature of the KAS4000 series:

An included infrared interface enables adjustment and calibration without removal. The maximum measurable inclination angle of ± 90° can be precisely reduced to fit the specific application, thus increasing accuracy. Factory-level reconfiguration would also be possible at any time with this technology.

Fully Leverage the Advantages of Hydrogen

High-precision inclination sensors are an indispensable tool in hydrogen transportation, contributing to ensuring safe and efficient transport. The continuous improvement and integration of these technologies will be crucial to meeting the growing requirements and safety standards in the hydrogen economy. Through investments in research and development, as well as collaboration between industry and science, these challenges can be overcome, and the benefits of hydrogen as a sustainable energy carrier can be fully utilized.

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