H2scan has started shipping prototypes of its new HY-OPTIMA 5000 Series designed for process industries.

The HY-OPTIMA 5000 Series analyzer provides accurate and affordable hydrogen process gas measurement solution for industrial markets. It is optimized for emerging cost-sensitive applications like the power-to-gas market (hydrogen blending into natural gas pipeline), electrolyzers and other process applications, including laboratories, alternative energy, hydrogen-cooled generators and turbines. 

HY-OPTIMA 5000 sensors are based on the same patented auto-calibration technology as H2scan’s successful GRIDSCAN 5000 and legacy sensors. H2scan has sold and delivered more than 15,000 transformer sensors worldwide and no sensor has needed recalibration since its launch in 2012.

The HY-OPTIMA 5000 Series uses a solid-state, non-consumable sensor for direct hydrogen measurement in process gas streams. The HY-OPTIMA 5000 sensor package is available in a compact form factor weighing 1 pound and is 5.9 in long and 1.6 in wide/deep. This small size is due to H2scan’s 1.2 million-transistor application specific integrated circuit (ASIC). The HY-OPTIMA 5000 is IP68 rated, can be submerged in up to 30 ft of water for 14 days and is marine compatible.

The inline hydrogen process analyzer prototype features the first ever auto calibration capability and is ideal for stand-alone or OEM integration into existing analyzers. It can be used in gas streams where real-time, hydrogen-specific measurements can enhance process plant efficiencies, improve yields, reduce maintenance costs, and enable the green hydrogen economy.  

Once installed and field calibrated, H2scan’s patented auto calibration feature eliminates drift and the need for periodic calibrations. No other maintenance is necessary. Communication with the unit is via serial communication using Modbus RTU over RS485.  

The general purpose-rated analyzer measures hydrogen directly in process gas streams with no cross sensitivity to other gases.  Hazardous area rated products are planned for release in 2022.

The HY-OPTIMA 5000 models include the model 5031, 5033, and 5034 analyzers, all of which are intended for use in non-condensing gas streams and work with or without hydrogen present.

"The HY-OPTIMA 5000 is designed for low-cost use in power-to-gas, hydrogen metering in homes, measuring purity for electrolyzers and a number of other emerging applications," said Dennis Reid, President and CEO of H2scan. We are looking forward to the ongoing trials and continued collaboration with large gas suppliers, manufacturers of electrolyzers, pipeline manufacturers and others in order to be the defacto hydrogen sensor technology used in all hydrogen-related applications."