Energize the hydrogen economy through high-quality fuel cells and electrolyzers

Choosing the right humidity measurement technology improves fuel cell and electrolyzer testing and manufacturing

The humidity factor in fuel cells and electrolyzers

A critical measurement in manufacturing and testing fuel cells and electrolyzers is humidity, which affects the water balance and transport in their core component – the membrane electrode assembly (MEA). Too much or too little humidity can lead to flooding or drying of the MEA, which can reduce the efficiency and lifespan of the device. Humidity can influence such variables as proton conductivity, gas diffusion, and electrochemical reactions.

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Don’t let the fuel cell testing process test your patience

Are you hoping for a speedy testing process but keep losing hours waiting for your humidity instrument to recover from condensation? Recovery time depends mainly on the technology and stability of the probe. You can ensure the efficiency and accuracy of your fuel cell test bench with the proper humidity instrumentation.

In the visualization, the Vaisala HUMICAP® probe A has a heating functionality, whereas the probe B is non-heated. When 100% relative humidity (RH) is reached, probe A recovers quickly to show accurate humidity readings whereas B recovers very slowly. Depending on the device, recovery can take hours. This of course slows down the testing process and can even make it inaccurate. See our HUMICAP options with a heated probe functionality below.

Compact and compatible. Vaisala HUMICAP® HMP7 for high humidity conditions.

Vaisala HUMICAP® HMP7 measurement probe thrives in applications which involve constant high humidity or rapid changes in humidity such as humidifiers, drying and test chambers, combustion air and measurements where performance and chemical tolerance are essential. 

Moreover, the HMP7 is compatible with our robust Indigo500, Indigo300 and Indigo200 transmitters, which enable easy data evaluation and visualization.

 

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Easy to integrate. Vaisala HUMICAP® Humidity and Temperature Module HMM170 for high humidity conditions.

This robust, open frame transmitter is the ideal choice when you need to integrate the device into fuel cell test equipment or other environmental chamber.  The sensor tolerates high humidity, vacuum as well as high pressure conditions.

The integration is easy. Both digital and three configurable analog output channels are available, ensuring compatibility for most chamber types. In addition to relative humidity and temperature, also dew point and other calculated parameters are available. An integrated service port enables quick configurations.

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Take control of the hydrogen drying process

The H2 drying process improves the quality and performance of hydrogen gas by preventing corrosion, insulation failure, and combustion issues. Dew point measurement helps optimize this process through better hydrogen quality and lower energy use, as excessive use of warm drying air can be avoided.

The key specifications in a dew point measurement instrument are accuracy and long-term stability. Vaisala DRYCAP® instruments have been developed to meet these requirements. See our DRYCAP® options below.

Miniature Dew Point Transmitters DMT143 & DMT143L (Long)

Miniature size dew point transmitters DMT143 and DMT143L are ideal choices for integrating dew point measurement to a hydrogen dryer or other equipment where the operation range is -70 ... +60 °C (-94 ... +140 °F). 

The products incorporate Vaisala DRYCAP® thin film polymer sensor and auto-calibration software. The standard sensor choice for dry gases and desiccant dryers is the DRYCAP 180M, and for more humid applications such as refrigeration dryers, the DRYCAP 180S is optimal.

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Why Vaisala?

We provide our customers with solutions that help them make reliable decisions and improve their productivity and processes. Our measurement technologies are widely used in demanding applications globally – and even on Planet Mars. All our instruments are rigorously tested in real operating conditions, ranging from hot to cold and from dry to humid. Before being selected, our products’ materials are tested thoroughly, and each of our products are designed for the best possible user experience. When it comes to demanding measurements, we’re your trusted partner.