Is the shutdown delay of the pressure swing adsorption programmable valve (hydraulically driven) affected by temperature?
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When the outdoor temperature in winter is around -10°C, some check valves trigger frequent alarms; even the adsorption valve (Valve 1) gives alarm signals under certain conditions. Upon on-site inspection, it was found that the valves move slowly when closed, but they do manage to close without affecting the system pressure. Programmable valves are driven by hydraulic oil. Have you encountered this issue? How should it be resolved?
It is recommended to try using electric heat tracing for the valves and pipelines in the relevant areas.
I considered adding heat tracing; since it is a hydrogen production unit, electric heat tracing was rejected. I’m thinking about adding water or steam heat tracing after the unit is shut down, but I’m still not sure what caused the alarm
If it is flammable and explosive, and if land area permits it, could consider building an insulated shed and using steam heating?
At the current stage, there are rain shelters in place to prevent contamination by rainwater. But what do insulation shelters look like? Clearly, it’s not possible to create a sealed environment in the work area, as there are flammable and explosive gases that can leak; sealing such an area would lead to their accumulation
It’s best to check; the hydraulic oil seems to have antifreeze properties as well.
It is possible to consider installing an oil heater in the tank (electric, explosion-proof electric type, or steam-based), in order to raise the oil temperature. The main reason for this is that low temperatures increase the viscosity of the oil, which results in slower flow rates of oil in and out of the valves
In my opinion, it would be advisable to consider using low-temperature grease
This post was last edited by yyang029 on 2020-2-5 at 11:37. I’m not sure whether the fluidity of the grease and its ability to transmit pressure meet the requirements of hydraulic valves; those who have used such products, please share their experiences. It might be possible to use heating for the valve cylinders and oil tank, as well as insulation for the oil pipes!
In winter, when temperatures are low, valve jamming becomes a serious issue; we experience temperatures as low as minus 20 degrees