Fluidic solutions for stationary fuel cell technology
Stationary fuel cells such as the solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) or the proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) efficiently convert chemical energy from hydrogen into electrical energy and are used as reliable energy sources in various applications, including buildings and ships. Reformer systems are used so that fuel gases or fuels can also be used as media instead of pure hydrogen. In stationary fuel cells, fluidics – i.e. the management of gas and liquid flows – is an important aspect in ensuring efficient and reliable power generation.
As a fluidics expert, Bürkert is the ideal partner to guide you through these complexities. See for yourself!
What is important in fluidic control, and how does it help with issues such as safety and increasing the efficiency of stationary fuel cells?
Using fuel cells to generate power and heat in buildings or on ships requires fuel gases to be handled safely. Air and gas control in stationary fuel cells therefore requires precise control for maximum efficiency. The components used must be suitable for the necessary safety and comply with national approvals. Energy-efficient and material-compliant solutions are required to guarantee optimum overall efficiency and the durability of the fuel cell.
Bürkert solutions impress users with their low power consumption and durability. The high number of switching cycles and long maintenance intervals contribute to the efficient utilisation of the stationary fuel cell. Our products are suitable for use with fuel gases, as well as being ready for future use with hydrogen and possessing the necessary approvals.
Bürkert expertise in stationary fuel cells
Careful planning and control of the fluidics in stationary fuel cells is crucial for maximising efficiency, extending service life and ensuring reliability. The exact design of the fluidics can vary depending on the fuel cell technology (e.g. PEMFC, SOFC) and application.
Safe shut-off of fuel gas or hydrogen
The safe shut-off of fuel gases or hydrogen is a critical function for stationary fuel cells. The precise control and reliable shut-off mechanisms of our valves not only ensure the reliable operation of the fuel cell, but also contribute greatly to the safety and stability of the entire fuel cell system. This is particularly important for minimising potential risks such as leaks or uncontrolled gas release and therefore enabling smooth and safe operation in various stationary applications. This ensures compliance with legal regulations and safety standards.
Solenoid shut-off valve for fuel gas and hydrogen
Direct-acting 2/2-way plunger valve
- Direct-acting, powerful valve with diameter of up to DN13
- Vibration-proof, bolted coil system
- Energy-saving double coil technology with kick and drop variant
- Explosion proof versions
- High pressure variants for gases and liquids
Servo-assisted 2/2-way piston valve
- Servo-assisted and compact piston valve with diameter of up to DN 13
- Vibration-resistant , screwed coil system
- Energy-saving double coil technology with kick and drop variant
- Safe opening with hard-coupled piston system
- Explosion proof versions
Safe control and regulation of fuel gas or hydrogen and cathode air controller
Safely controlling and regulating fuel gases, especially hydrogen, as well as cathode air, are key functions for stationary fuel cells. Precise control not only enables efficient operation of the fuel cell, but also ensures optimum performance and durability. These functions help to prevent undesirable chemical reactions, thus providing reliable protection against wear and ensuring lasting operational safety.
Proportional solenoid valves for fuel gases
Direct-acting 2 way standard solenoid control valve
- Excellent range
- Very good response
- Compact valve design
- Orifice sizes 2...9.5 mm
- Optional: Explosion-protected coil
Direct-acting 2-way proportional valve
- Proportional valve for use in flow or pressure control loops
- Integrated shut-off function with reliably high tightness
- Excellent sensitivity and turn-down ratio
- Available as subbase or cartridge variant for simple system integration
- Protection class IP65 or IP6K9K with automotive connector
Proportional motor valves for cathode air
Electromotive 2-way globe proportional valve
- Actuator isolated from flow path
- Excellent range and fast response times
- Low power consumption
- Connection orifice DN 15...25
- Variants: standard, positioner, process controller
Trusted, reliable and safe hydrogen solutions from Bürkert
Comprehensive fluidics solutions for your stationary fuel cells
An overview of Bürkert solutions and a wealth of interesting information can be found in our comprehensive hydrogen catalogue. Download it here.
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hydrogen valves?
What valves are available, and what are the important factors to consider when choosing a hydrogen valve?
Need help? – As your fluidics expert in the field of hydrogen, Bürkert will be happy to help you.
Selecting the right hydrogen valve and liquid flow controller or flowmeter is often not simple. We are happy to help you speed up your decision-making process in order to find the right solution for your hydrogen application quickly and efficiently.