Albert & Hummel has developed an automated test bench for a customer to prepare and test stacks for proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolysis. The system is primarily used for the initial conditioning of the membranes, which must be humidified for subsequent operation. According to the company, this is the only way to achieve reliable test results. For the conditioning process, ultrapure water (deionized water) is passed through the stack under defined conditions. Flow rate, temperature and pressure are precisely controlled. A bypass system, heat exchangers and pumps ensure the required operating parameters. Numerous valves handle filling, draining and switching between different flow paths.
Valve technology from Bürkert in use
When selecting the components, Albert & Hummel opted for valve technology from Bürkert Fluid Control Systems. Among others, four process control valves of type 8802 with ELEMENT control heads, ten on/off process valves of type 8801, as well as solenoid valves of types 6240 and 6027 are used. All valves are made of corrosion-resistant stainless steel and are designed for use with deionized water and pressures up to PN 25. The process control valves used feature a flow-optimized stainless steel housing and can be integrated into the control system via conventional analog signals. The self-adjusting spindle packing is intended to ensure high tightness and long service life. According to the manufacturer, the other valves are also pressure- and leak-proof and contribute to the reliable operation of the test bench.
Agile development with changing requirement
sThe test bench was developed in an agile project environment. In the process, the valve specifications had to be adjusted several times. Albert & Hummel emphasizes that Bürkert delivered reliably despite these changes and supported the search for solutions. The company plans to continue working with Bürkert on future projects. Additional test benches for various industries are in the planning stage. Albert & Hummel has been active in special-purpose machine construction for over 30 years and develops customized automation and control solutions. The company now focuses in particular on the testing and production of innovative energy and drive systems.
