Hydrogen (Apr 2024)

HyPLANT100: Industrialization from Assembly to the Construction Site for Gigawatt Electrolysis

  • Lukas Büsch,
  • Malte Jakschik,
  • Daniel Syniawa,
  • Christian Masuhr,
  • Lukas Christ,
  • Jan Schachtsiek,
  • Kay Haalck,
  • Leon Nerlich,
  • Elisabeth Frömsdorf,
  • Nadine Schirmack,
  • Benedikt Ebert,
  • Chaman Kirty,
  • Patrick Adler,
  • Thorsten Schüppstuhl,
  • Bernd Kuhlenkötter

DOI
https://doi.org/10.3390/hydrogen5020012
Journal volume & issue
Vol. 5, no. 2
pp. 185 – 208

Abstract

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The global push for sustainable energy has heightened the demand for green hydrogen, which is crucial for decarbonizing heavy industry. However, current electrolysis plant capacities are insufficient. This research addresses the challenge through optimizing large-scale electrolysis construction via standardization, modularization, process optimization, and automation. This paper introduces H2Giga, a project for mass-producing electrolyzers, and HyPLANT100, investigating large-scale electrolysis plant structure and construction processes. Modularizing electrolyzers enhances production efficiency and scalability. The integration of AutomationML facilitates seamless information exchange. A digital twin concept enables simulations, optimizations, and error identification before assembly. While construction site automation provides advantages, tasks like connection technologies and handling cables, tubes, and hoses require pre-assembly. This study identifies key tasks suitable for automation and estimating required components. The Enapter Multicore electrolyzer serves as a case study, showcasing robotic technology for tube fittings. In conclusion, this research underscores the significance of standardization, modularization, and automation in boosting the electrolysis production capacity for green hydrogen, contributing to ongoing efforts in decarbonizing the industrial sector and advancing the global energy transition.

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