In hydrogen production facilities, hydrogen compressors pressurize hydrogen generated from electrolysis, steam methane reforming, or biomass gasification. High-pressure hydrogen, typically stored at 200–1000 bar, is essential for efficient transportation, industrial use, and energy applications.
At hydrogen refueling stations, high-pressure hydrogen compressors increase pressure to 350–700 bar for rapid fueling of fuel cell vehicles (FCEVs). These compressors must maintain extremely high gas purity to prevent contamination that could damage fuel cells.
Beyond mobility, industrial hydrogen compressors supply hydrogen for ammonia production, metal processing, and electronics manufacturing. In energy storage systems, they compress hydrogen for seasonal storage, enabling renewable energy integration by converting excess solar or wind power into hydrogen for later use.
Hydrogen's small molecular size poses a leakage challenge, requiring oil-free hydrogen compressors with advanced sealing systems. Diaphragm and piston compressors are widely used due to their reliability, long service life, and contamination-free operation. Modern systems incorporate real-time monitoring, pressure control, and safety shutdown features to ensure safe, efficient, and sustainable hydrogen handling.
