Benaya S. H. Munte

Planning for a design and optimization of a 1 liter pressurized hydrogen storage/tank

As the lightest, most common and most abundant element in the universe, is one of the most essential building blocks of the universe. It comprises about 75% of its elemental mass and 90% of its observable atoms.

When utilizing hydrogen as a source of vehicle fuel, they are usually manufactured in the form of fuel cells, rather than pure fuels such as gasoline and diesel fuels, due to the fact that a combustion engine using hydrogen as a source of fuel is extremely inefficient.

Below are the criteria needed to be fulfilled for a hydrogen tank design with a budget of only Rp. 500.000,00:

This design summary outlines an optimized storage system capable of safely handling an 8 bar pressure requirement while considering a budget limit of Rp 500.000. The system focuses on cost-effective solutions without compromising safety and functionality.

Key Considerations:

1. Storage Vessel: A cost-effective high-pressure vessel is chosen, considering material strength and compatibility with stored substances, while aiming for affordability. 2. Material: Economical materials like mild steel or reinforced plastics are selected, ensuring they meet the necessary strength and safety requirements.

3. Structural Design: The vessel is designed to meet the pressure requirement while minimizing material usage and fabrication costs. Simple shapes and standard sizes may be preferred.

4. Safety Measures: Essential safety features like pressure relief valves are incorporated, prioritizing affordable options that still meet regulatory standards. 5. Leakage Prevention: Cost-effective sealing mechanisms like gaskets or low-cost elastomers are implemented to prevent leaks, ensuring they are still reliable.

6. Pressure Control: Simple pressure regulation systems like manual valves or basic pressure regulators are used to meet the pressure control needs within the budget constraints.

7. Support Infrastructure: Basic instrumentation and monitoring equipment are chosen to facilitate system operation and maintenance without exceeding the budget.

8. Installation and Maintenance: Efficient installation practices are employed, and routine maintenance activities are planned to minimize costs while ensuring optimal performance.

9. Compliance and Standards: The system is designed to meet the necessary safety standards within the given budget, ensuring legal compliance and avoiding additional expenses.

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What are the ways to utilize Hydrogen as a source of vehicle fuel and how:

Fuel Cells: Hydrogen fuel cells are a common method of using hydrogen as a vehicle fuel. In a fuel cell vehicle (FCV), hydrogen reacts with oxygen in the fuel cell, generating electricity to power an electric motor. This process only produces water vapor as a byproduct, making FCVs environmentally friendly. They offer high energy efficiency, longer driving ranges compared to electric vehicles, and quick hydrogen refueling.

Combustion: Hydrogen can be used in internal combustion engines, similar to gasoline or diesel engines. However, this method is less common and presents challenges. In a hydrogen internal combustion engine (HICE) vehicle, hydrogen is burned, creating mechanical power to propel the vehicle. Engine modifications are needed due to hydrogen's low density and ignition energy. Hydrogen combustion engines may produce nitrogen oxide emissions, although engine advancements can mitigate this issue.