What to do in the event of a large hydrogen leak from the booster pump in a continuous reforming unit?
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What to do in the event of a large hydrogen leak from the booster pump in a continuous reforming unit?
To determine where the hydrogen leakage is coming from – whether it’s from the machine itself or from the dry gas seal – it’s sufficient to switch between the operating and standby reciprocating compressors. In the case of centrifugal compressors, where there is no standby unit, if there is significant hydrogen leakage from the machine itself, the operation must be stopped for repairs; the faulty components need to be removed and the hydrogen released through a flare. If there is severe leakage from the dry gas seal as well, the machine must also be stopped for repair.
For machines with leaks, close the inlet and outlet valves; once the pressure drops below that of nitrogen, introduce a large amount of nitrogen to continue purging the machine of air.