Mitigating hydrogen risks: How IMI ensures safety in decentralised energy solutions

Hydrogen is gaining momentum as a key energy source in the transition to a more sustainable future. Its potential is vast, from powering industries to fuelling transport, but it also presents unique challenges when it comes to safety.

As with all chemical fuels, hydrogen’s flammability means it must be handled with care. However, hydrogen is distinct in both the risks it poses and the strategies required to mitigate them.

At IMI, we’ve taken a forward-thinking approach to address these challenges with the development of the IMI VIVO PEM electrolyser. This compact, efficient solution is designed to produce green hydrogen safely, reliably, and in compliance with the highest international safety standards.

Understanding hydrogen’s unique risks

Hydrogen’s high flammability is both a risk and a safety advantage. Its quick burn rate often means fires are localised, and because it is lighter than air, hydrogen tends to disperse quickly, reducing the likelihood of explosive buildup in open environments. This is unlike petroleum vapours, which are heavier, persistently burn at higher temperatures, and pose a greater explosion risk.

The real danger with hydrogen arises in enclosed spaces, such as the casing of an electrolyser or a fuel pump. In such environments, hydrogen can accumulate undetected, and its low ignition energy means even slight friction or airflow can spark an explosion.

At IMI, we’ve risen to this challenge by incorporating advanced engineering and rigorous safety measures into the IMI VIVO PEM electrolyser.

The IMI approach to safety

Our engineers developed a robust three-pronged safety strategy to address hydrogen risks:

1. Adherence to international safety standards

   The IMI VIVO electrolyser is designed and manufactured in compliance with IEC 61511/61508 standards. These ensure not only that individual components are secure but that the entire safety chain – from installation to operation – is evaluated for optimal performance.

2. Strategic ventilation

   Effective ventilation is essential to prevent hydrogen buildup within the electrolyser casing. Our team conducted computational fluid dynamic (CFD) simulations to pinpoint potential accumulation zones, enabling the precise placement of vents.

3. Advanced monitoring systems

   Sensors within the electrolyser continuously monitor hydrogen concentration levels. If concentrations rise above 1% – far below the 4% threshold required for ignition – the system automatically shuts down, safeguarding against potential hazards.

A turnkey solution for green hydrogen

The IMI VIVO PEM electrolyser provides a scalable solution for organisations with power demands between 100kW and 5MW. Mounted within a standard shipping container, it offers a plug-and-play setup that reduces capital expenditure and simplifies deployment.

The container includes a fuel cell and a storage system, streamlining hydrogen production and use. This makes it ideal for industries ranging from petrochemicals and refining to transport, where hydrogen is often the only viable alternative to electrification.

Learning from experience

Handling hydrogen requires a deep understanding of its unique properties and risks. IMI’s approach with the IMI VIVO electrolyser demonstrates how comprehensive safety strategies can mitigate these risks. By combining adherence to international standards, advanced engineering, and monitoring systems, we’ve created a solution that prioritises safety without compromising efficiency.