Top Applications of Hydrogen Gas Cylinders Across Industries

Hydrogen is the most abundant gas in the universe and holds immense energy potential due to its high energy content. It is also known for being the cleanest and environmentally friendly fuel source due to its zero carbon emission property. Despite its significant benefits as a fuel source, it is a highly flammable gas and requires extremely low flammable energy for combustion. Therefore, it requires a robust and highly safe cylinder to harness the benefits of hydrogen gas without any concerns of containment hazards.

In this detailed blog post, we will explore the role and applications of hydrogen cylinders. We will also delve into the types, capacity, and storage options of it.

A] Understanding Hydrogen Gas Cylinders

Hydrogen gas cylinders are used to store highly flammable and permeable hydrogen gas in compressed form. They are especially engineered to contain hydrogen for a longer time while ensuring the hydrogen’s ability to permeate and embrittle doesn’t affect the structural integrity of the cylinder. Hydrogen cylinders are backed with robust construction, safety compliance, and durability. They are of four types, Type 1, 2,3, and 4. Type 1 cylinders are widely used due to their high cost-efficiency and robustness.

B] Types of Hydrogen Cylinders

# Type 1 (All-Metal Cylinders)

The most used Hydrogen tank type is Type 1, which is made of steel material. It has a highly durable body and is economical. The Type 1 cylinders can withstand high-pressure hydrogen gas (up to 200 bar) while securing the material from hydrogen embrittlement. It is highly suitable for industries looking for rugged and long-lasting hydrogen cylinders.

# Other Types (Type 2, 3, 4)

C] Applications of Hydrogen Gas Cylinders

1. Industrial Manufacturing

Hydrogen cylinders are extensively used in industrial manufacturing for oil refining, ammonia production, chemical synthesis, and metal processing. Hydrogen acts as a reducing agent in steel making by removing oxygen from metal ores to produce high-quality steel. It is also used in welding and cutting applications, where clean combustion is needed.

2. Medical & Healthcare

Use of hydrogen gas cylinders in medical applications is growing rapidly. It is being used for hydrogen inhalation therapy due to its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. It is also used in sterilising medical equipment and in pharmaceutical research labs where purity and consistency are the number one requirements. For the medical and healthcare sector, Type 1 hydrogen cylinders perform excellently while ensuring compliance with medical-grade gas standards.

3. Energy & Research

Hydrogen is a clean energy source, making it the top choice for the renewable energy sector. Universities and laboratories use hydrogen cylinders for research and pilot projects related to energy storage and sustainable power systems. The best hydrogen cylinder for energy and research facilities is Type 1, as it is engineered to withstand high pressure and able to provide controlled dispensing in a sensitive environment.

4. Chemical Industry

Hydrogen is a crucial gas for the chemical sector. It is extensively used in ammonia production for fertilisers, methanol synthesis, and petroleum refining processes. The requirement of high-purity hydrogen in the chemical industry demands a cylinder that is free from hydrogen embrittlement. Type 1 cylinder fulfills these requirements by providing a non-reactive surface to hydrogen for a long time.

5. Food Industry

Hydrogen cylinders are used in the food industry for hydrogenation of oils and fats to produce margarine, spreads, and other edible products. It is also widely used in modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) to enhance food preservation by reducing oxidation and spoilage.

6. Transportation & Mobility

Hydrogen is becoming a crucial fuel source for the green mobility sector. It is fueling forklifts, trucks, and buses in pilot hydrogen fuel projects. It is also supporting aviation research and development as a backup energy system.

7. Environmental Applications

Hydrogen is contributing significantly to decarbonisation and renewable energy integration. It is used in waste treatment and clean energy projects aimed at reducing carbon footprints. A Type 1 hydrogen cylinder ensures secure storage and transportation.

D] Hydrogen Cylinder Capacity and Storage Options

Type 1 cylinders offer excellent pressure ratings of 200 to 300 bar with a hydrogen cylinder capacity of 15.5 to 31 cubic meters. It offers a water capacity of 22 to 145, providing a range of sizes for diverse applications. It can be used as a single unit or manifolded cylinder packs by connecting them centrally by a piping system. It is suitable for bulk storage and industrial transport. In addition to sizes and capacity, Rama Cylinder, a leading hydrogen gas cylinder manufacturer, offers customisable sizes and capacities of cylinders upon request.

Conclusion

Hydrogen is becoming a prominent source of energy due to the demand for environmentally friendly fuel sources. Hydrogen cylinders efficiently store the hydrogen and keep it safe inside their robust wall. Choose the cylinder based on the capacity and storage needs to ensure seamless hydrogen gas storage and transportation. 

Rama Cylinder is the world’s largest CNG cylinder manufacturer in India. We are known for offering cost-effective, robust, and durable Type 1 hydrogen gas cylinders. Contact us today, and we can customise the cylinders to fit your requirements, if needed.