In this tech talk, Steven had the pleasure of discussing Fuel Cell Turbo Compressors with Markus Branstätter, Chief of Technology at Celeroton AG.
Learn about Hydrogen Cooling and Hydrogen Refueling
Steven Oji and Markus Brandstätter explain the components and functioning of turbo compressors. He describes the impeller, diffuser, and volute, highlighting the fluid dynamics involved. This Hyfindr Tech Talk also mentions various impeller designs and their applications, especially the use of turbo compressors in hydrogen economy. This video addresses concerns about high rotational speeds and cooling and further delve into the details of gas bearings, including their working principle and ability to handle shocks and vibrations.
In simple terms, a turbo compressor consists of three main parts: the impeller, the diffuser, and the volute. The impeller, rotating at high rotational speeds, works on the fluid and increases the total pressure. The diffuser further increases the static pressure, and the volute connects the compressor to the fuel cell stack.
The various designs of turbo compressors, which differ based on their flow coefficient and mass flow requirements, are discussed. Turbo compressors are used in three main applications: air compression for fuel cell cathode side, hydrogen recirculation, and electrolyzer hydrogen recirculation.
A cut-through view of a compressor system consists of the compressor and the converter. He explains that the compressor's impeller is connected to a rotor suspended by gas bearings, allowing for oil-free and particle-free compression. The torque required for compression is generated by an electric motor mounted between two radial bearings. Markus notes that the compressors operate at high rotational speeds, ranging from 120,000 to 300,000 RPM, which can reach rotational velocities of 300 to 400 m/s.
If you like the video, please also subscribe to our new Hyfindr Youtube Channel. We launched Hyfindr Tech Talks in January - a new format that is specifically designed for engineers who are interesed in the hydrogen economy!
Steven is a fuel cell system designer and he will deep-dive into the technology that makes the hydrogen economy work with real experts. We hope you will like the new format.