To further enable the use of H₂ as a fuel source around the globe, Swagelok announces two new components engineered for safe and efficient operation in H₂ refueling stations. The Swagelok ramp regulator provides controlled pressure during refueling, while the Swagelok FK series H₂ check valve delivers unidirectional flow and shut-off of small-molecule gases, preventing reverse flow.

"In a world increasingly seeking to decarbonize, H₂ has shown great promise, and the expanding H₂ refueling station market is expected to keep growing over the next decade," said Sarah Liston, director of product management, Swagelok. "One challenge in building this infrastructure is that H₂ escapes easily through the smallest gaps. We developed these products to address this and other H₂ handling issues."

In the transportation marketplace, H₂ must be stored at pressures in excess of 700 bar, and the rapid thermal and pressure changes at refueling stations can impact system integrity. The Swagelok ramp regulator serves applications in accordance with SAE J2601—the worldwide standard for H₂ refueling stations—and features a maximum allowable working pressure of 1050 bar inlet and 875 bar outlet. Its operating temperature range is –40° to 185°F (–40° to 85°C), and it can reach a 120 g/s H₂ tank fill rate. An optional PID control unit will communicate with the dispenser to reach the required pressure control profile.

The Swagelok FK series H₂ check valve also features a maximum allowable working pressure of 1050 bar and handles a temperature range of –40° to 185°F (–40° to 85°C). With a high flow coefficient, all-metal body seal, and a spring that's isolated from the flow path to increase its service life, it has passed third-party H₂ testing per ISO-19880-3 and effectively prevents reverse flow when the differential drops below the fixed cracking pressure of < 2 bar. Swagelok's FK technology can install up to five times faster than cone and thread fittings, reducing installation time, assembly, and maintenance costs.

The Swagelok ramp regulator and FK series H₂ check valve are available now. Swagelok also provides materials science expertise, engineering assistance, and components such as fittings designed explicitly for H₂ containment.