WITT Gas Controls Supplies Custom Valve for Hydrogen Fuel
WITT Gas Controls developed a custom non-return valve for a fuel cell manufacturer, enabling improved system efficiency and safety for material handling
A leading North American fuel cell manufacturer needed a specialized component to ensure safety and performance. WITT Gas Controls developed the custom ULTRA 22 non-return valve to meet the challenge.
Standard valves failed to meet the strict requirements for fuel cell systems in material handling. The manufacturer needed a valve with an exceptionally low opening pressure and zero leakage to prevent hydrogen waste.
The Challenge of Low-Pressure Airflow
Proton-exchange membrane fuel cells require ambient air to flow freely during operation but seal completely when idle. The pressure needed to open the valve is minimal, comparable to a soft puff of air. Standard valves caused excessive pressure drops or failed to seal reliably under these hydrogen-specific conditions.
Initial tests with off-the-shelf components were unsuccessful. The manufacturer sought an engineering partner to develop a custom gas-safety solution.
Engineering a Custom Solution
WITT Gas Controls engineered a specialized version of its existing non-return valve. The ULTRA 22 model was optimized by removing the inlet filter to minimize resistance. Its design allows airflow with an opening pressure of approximately 4 mbar (0.058 PSI).
The valve features a leak-proof architecture with high-quality elastomer seals. Each batch undergoes comprehensive testing. The modular system allows for customization of housing and sealing materials to ensure compatibility with hydrogen and durability in industrial settings.
Available housing materials include:
Enabling System Efficiency and Scale
The implementation of the custom valve delivered immediate benefits. The ultra-low pressure drop maximized fuel cell output, allowing equipment like forklifts to run longer. The reliable sealing ensured the safety standards required for large retail distribution centers.
This component supported the manufacturer's production goals. WITT Gas Controls supplied over 10,000 units per year, facilitating large-scale deployment across North America. The reliable supply chain supported the manufacturer's contracts with major retailers.
Hydrogen fuel cells offer faster refueling and zero emissions at point of use for material handling. Refilling a hydrogen tank can take just 10 seconds, eliminating the downtime and safety risks associated with swapping heavy lead-acid batteries. The partnership highlights how specialized components are critical for advancing fuel cell technology in industrial applications.
