Proportioning the Compressed Air Dryer
Trying to figure out which air dryer capacity is best for you? Here are some factors to consider. Read More…
Hydrogen production: How is hydrogen made and what is it?
Hydrogen is becoming increasingly important as a promising clean energy carrier โ especially with a view to a more climate-friendly future. But have you ever wondered what hydrogen actually is and how it is produced? In this article, we look at the basics and technologies used to produce hydrogen and what makes hydrogen a special element.
Producing hydrogen through technological use
Several technologies for hydrogen production exist, which can be used depending on the specific requirements and available
resources. Here are some common methods:
-
Steam reforming of natural gas: This is currently the most widely used technology for hydrogen production. In this
process, natural gas, which consists mainly of methane, is heated with water vapor in the presence of a catalyst. Figuratively, steam
reforming can be thought of as the "breaking up" of natural gas.
In this process, the methane in the natural gas reacts with the water vapor, producing hydrogen (H2) and carbon monoxide (CO). The hydrogen obtained is purified and can then be used as fuel in vehicles, to generate electricity in fuel cells or in various industrial applications. This process is inexpensive, but it also has disadvantages. Carbon dioxide is released as a by-product, which has an impact on the environment.
- Electrolysis of water: In electrolysis, water is split into hydrogen and oxygen with the help of an electric current. Equipment or equipment called electrolyzers carry out the electrolysis process to do this.
- Solar hydrogen production: In this method, solar energy is used instead of electrical energy to carry out the electrolysis process. This can be done either by direct sunlight or by concentrating solar radiation with the help of solar mirrors or collectors. This new technology could be used in countries where sufficient sun is available and make it possible to produce hydrogen particularly cost-effectively.
- Thermochemical Hydrogen Production (Biological Hydrogen Production): Some microorganisms, such as certain bacteria or algae, can produce hydrogen through fermentation or photosynthesis. This method is still under development, but has potential as a sustainable and environmentally friendly hydrogen source. However, the disadvantage of this type of production is the finite resources.
Sustainability of hydrogen production: Choosing the right energy source
It should be noted that not all hydrogen production processes are equally sustainable or environmentally friendly. The sustainability of
hydrogen production depends on the energy source used and the CO2 emissions during the production process. In order to make the most of the
benefits of hydrogen as a clean energy source, it is of great importance to use renewable energy sources for the production of hydrogen.
The use of renewable energies such as solar energy, wind energy or hydropower can significantly reduce CO2 emissions in hydrogen production,
making it more sustainable and sustainable. Environmentally friendly hydrogen is produced. This is an important step towards achieving a
low-carbon future and tackling climate change.
Hydrogen is also often referred to as the "champagne of the energy transition". But how can we produce hydrogen from renewable energies on a large scale?
Electrolysis is the process that is most promising. The electrolysis process enables the environmentally friendly production of hydrogen, especially if the electricity used for it comes from renewable energy sources. These technologies play an important role in enabling clean hydrogen to emerge as a sustainable energy carrier for various applications. We took a detailed look at the different technologies and took a look at the advantages and disadvantages of each.
PEM electrolysis:
PEM electrolysis, also known as proton exchange membrane electrolysis, splits water into hydrogen and oxygen using a polymer membrane and electric current.
Advantages:
- Fast start-up and quick adaptation to variable loads
- High efficiency in partial load operation
- Low operating temperature (50-80ยฐC), reducing the use of expensive materials
- Compact size and easy integration into existing systems
- High level of technological maturity (TRL 7-8)
Disadvantages:
- Sensitive to impurities in the water, therefore requires pre-treatment of the water
- Limited service life of the PEM fuel cell (approx. 10,000 operating hours)
- Higher costs compared to alkaline electrolysis
Alkaline electrolysis:
In alkaline electrolysis, water is split into its constituents hydrogen and oxygen using an alkaline electrolyte, typically an aqueous solution of potassium hydroxide.
Advantages:
- Lower costs compared to PEM electrolysis
- Robust against contaminants in the water
- Long service life of the electrolytic cell (approx. 40,000-80,000 operating hours)
- Highest level of technological maturity (TRL 8-9)
Disadvantages:
- Slower reaction rate compared to PEM electrolysis
- Higher operating temperatures (70-100ยฐC) lead to higher energy consumption
- More difficult integration into existing systems due to different operating parameters
SOEC (Solid Oxide Electrolysis Cell):
SOEC stands for Solid Oxide Electrolysis Cell and refers to a high-temperature electrolytic cell that converts water into hydrogen and oxygen at high temperatures and with solid oxides as the electrolyte.
Advantages:
- High efficiency and heat recovery due to high operating temperatures (800-1000ยฐC)
- Flexibility in the use of different fuels (e.g. steam, CO2)
Disadvantages:
- High operating temperatures require expensive materials and special thermal insulation
- Slow start and adaptation to variable loads
- Larger dimensions and complex system integration
- Little operating experience on a large scale
AEM electrolysis (Anion Exchange Membrane):
AEM stands for Anion Exchange Membrane and refers to an electrolyzer technology that uses a special membrane that allows permeability to negatively charged ions and splits water into hydrogen and oxygen using electric current.
Advantages:
- Lower costs compared to PEM electrolysis
- Robust against contaminants in the water
- Operation at lower temperatures (approx. 60-80ยฐC)
Disadvantages:
- Limited development and commercialization compared to PEM and alkaline electrolysis
- Potential challenges to membrane long-term stability
- No large-scale installations available. Low level of technological maturity.
Sourced via atlascopco.com/en group
Ash Air has been around in New Zealand since 1979, and weโve grown into a nationwide company with international support and a
reputation for quality and reliability.We look after all things compressed air for your business!
Ash Air's range of Chicago Pneumatic, ALUP, Pneumatech, and Atlas Copco products are used extensively around the world in
industries ranging from oil and gas to food, automotive and farming, and we bring you these world-class compressors here in the land of
the long white cloud.Our technicians are compressed air equipment experts and are dedicated to addressing customer needs. Supported with
nationwide coverage, Ash Air offers one of the widest selections of compressed air, vacuum pump, and industrial gas equipment and parts
available today in New Zealand.
With Ash Air, you can count on reliability and high performance for even the most demanding applications. We focus our efforts
on the following:
Talk to the team today:
Maintenance budget: 8 factors to consider
Just like any other equipment, a compressed air installation also requires the necessary maintenance work during its entire
lifespan. Even though maintenance costs are only about 5 to 10% of a machine's annual operating costs, failure to budget for
maintenance can have potentially disastrous consequences.
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The air dyer is one of the most ignored cooler in the system. A dirty condenser will cause water in the lines, or worse it will cause
complete dryer failure.
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Why Replace CO2 with Nitrogen in your Brewery
Using nitrogen is not about fully replacing CO2, but it can reduce their consumption of CO2 by close to 70%. Using nitrogen is about
sustainability. Creating your own nitrogen is easy and will reduce the use of a greenhouse gas, which is better for the environment. It will
also save you money as early as month one adding that savings to your bottom line.
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ICONS: Intelligent Connectivity System: The insight into your compressed air system, wherever you are. Learn More about ICONS in this article here!
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product costs involved with compressed air, as well as minimising the energy cost of compressors and cost allocation. When looking at these
factors, we need to realise what causes dropped efficiency of your compressor, leading to increased costs of compressed air.
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How to avoid falling objects when working at heights
You may have great fall protection measures in place to keep employees safe when working at height, but what about their co-workers below?
Dropped tools and other falling objects are a major hazard โ and one that isnโt always fully addressed.ย
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Providing a safe working environment for operators is essential, especially when using pneumatic tools and compressed air. If there is a
failure in the air network and the hose is not adequately clamped, the resulting whiplash could be devastating. Failure to follow best
practice can result in injuries, associated production downtime and decreased productivity.
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Why do I need a dryer for my compressor?
A common questions asked is why do I need an air dryer for my compressor? Typically, air compressors produce water, and although the
water can be drained, there can still be aerosol and vapour droplets that are present. This is because water cannoet be compressed. Water
can damage your compressor by corroding the valves, pipes and machinery controls, which will cost you time and money to resolve. In
the long run, the cost of a new compressor is a small price to pay compared to the loss of production that could potentially arise due
to water damage in your compressor.
What are some preventable causes of air compressor failure?
Air compressors can fail for an assortment of different reasons: Normal wear and tear, lifespan and age of the unit, poor maintenance, power surge, install issues are just a few the come to mind. Check out this blog to find out our top 7 tips to ensure your compressor is looked
after!
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Simple Ways to Reduce Your Compressed Air Costs?
Air compressors use considerable volumes of energy during a typical work cycle. When you add up all the expenses of operating a facility,
any savings can help you boost your bottom line.
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What Should You Know When Buying a Compressor for the First Time?
If you have never bought a rotary screw air compressor before; do the following. Add up the air consumption of all the equipment at your
shop. That will be the amount of air your desired compressor should provide.
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How to Know When Your Industrial Air Compressor Needs Servicing
Knowing the telltale signs of wear and tear, understanding your productโs specifications and usability guidelines, and knowing when itโs
prudent to call in repairs are skills that could save you a lot of time, effort, and money in the long term.
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One-stage vs Multi-stage Compressor
Find out the difference between a one-stage compressor and a multi-stage compressor.
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How do I winterise my air compressor?
That cold, rainy, and in some places icey New Zealand winter is upon us, and with the following air compressor tips, your air system will be
prepared with the preferred temperatures, despite the weather outside. Regardless of whether or not it actually snows or freezes up where
you live, most winterisation service recommendations are also basic, solid maintenance procedures that will help extend the life and
operational efficiencies of air compressors regardless of whether you live in Queenstown or Northland.
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How to find the better desiccant dryer
The right desiccant dryer with quality desiccant will improve dryer performance and lifetime and will reduce energy and service costs.
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How to Find the Best Air Compressor for Painting Cars
If you're wondering what an air compressor actually is, you've come to the right place. Simply, air compressors convert power in to air that
is pressurised which is then used to power air tools such as spray guns. Air compressors are used in a wide range of applications, so
naturally if you want one that will be designed for spray painting your vehicle, you want a compressor specifically made for spray guns!
This way your compressor will be able to provide the right amount of power to perform the job.
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How to Optimise Compressor Operating Costs
Compressed air plays a fundamental role in industrial activities. Depending on the type of application, the energy cost of producing
compressed air can be very high. Below are some tips to save on you compressor bill.
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Upgrading Your Compressor: When is the Right Time?
Air Compressors are essential tools in a variety of industrial settings. No matter what industry you are in having a reliable air compressor
can be a crucial part of getting the job done efficiently. However, like an investment, air compressors require upkeep and maintenance, and
eventually will need to be upgraded. But how do you know when itโs time to upgrade your air compressor? Here are some things you need to
consider.
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Choosing the right assist gas in laser cutting: nitrogen or oxygen
When it comes to laser cutting and other industrial processes, the choice of assist gas is crucial in achieving optimal results. Nitrogen
and oxygen are commonly utilized as assist gases, each with its own unique properties and applications. Understanding the characteristics of
both gases, will help you to make an informed decision to ensure precision, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness in your operations.
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Controlling your nitrogen purity made easy
On-site nitrogen generators have many benefits over bottled gas. One is that they allow you to select your nitrogen purity. Here is how.
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What are Mobile Compressors used for?
Mobile air compressors are portable, towable compressors particularly useful for applications that suit the construction and roading
industry! You'll often see a mobile compressor being used for sandblasting, irrigation blow-outs, and for quarrying tools such as pneumatic
block cutters and rock drills.ย ย
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Compressed air so portable it even reaches the moon.
Did you know that Chicago Pneumatic helped man land on the moon? Notice in this photo of the Apollo 11 landing what appear to be
"soccer balls" on top of the capsule. They were inflated through a compressor specially developed by Chicago Pneumatic for
NASA.
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Where Should I Install my Air Dryer?
Your company purchased an air dryer for your compressor, now where should you install it? One of the most common things we see in the
industry are air dryers being stored on top of the compressors. Seems like a wasted space not being used on top of the compressor, right?
Wrong.
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When using air compressors, there are many variables that are integral to the quality and effectiveness of your compressed air. When dryer
air is necessary, being able to constantly and accurately monitor dew points can be a critical factor to your operation.
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Why Does A Brewery Need Compressed Air?
Compressed air plays an integral role in breweries both large and small around the world. From start to finish, all details in the brewing
process are managed in fine detail and having the right air compressor is no exception.
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How is Nitrogen Used in the Coffee Industry?
We Kiwi's love our Coffee! Coffee, like all other food & beverage products, must go through a preservation process to keep the
beans fresh during storage and packaging before they reach the consumer. Coffee that is not properly stored after it is roasted will lose a
large amount of carbon dioxide, which lessens its' flavor and speeds up the staling process. One of the most common ways to preserve the
freshness of coffee is the use of nitrogen gas. Learn more here:
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How Can I Save on Energy Costs by Using a Screw Compressor?
Air compressors are helpful for an enormous range of applications such as air filling, packaging, tools, HVAC control, and more! One
possible drawback is the amount of electricity they use; air compressors can be a huge drain on energy if used โinefficiency...
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Which material of pipes should I use for my Air Compressor System?
Air compressors create the energy used by pneumatic tools and processes throughout your compressed air system. The component that connects
everything together is the piping. It is very important to choose the right compressed air pipe to avoid pressure
loss, rust and other problems.
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Why Do I Need a Back-up Air Compressor?
We get it, buying an air compressor is a big financial decision. And now we are suggesting that you need two air compressors, not just one.
Ask yourself one question- Can your business still run if your air compressor goes down?
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Do you have an idea for our #expertcorner?ย Let
us know!
Who we are and how Ash Air can help your business!
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