Abstract

This paper presents the design, modelling and control simulation of the Balance of Plant (BoP) for a medium-size PEM (Proton Exchange Membrane) electrolyzer. Taking into consideration the main chemical process that occurs in the electrolysis of a PEM electrolyzer, the BoP must be clearly divided into two main parts: water management and hydrogen production. An exhaustive control system is developed to test the working conditions that will allow the PEM electrolyzer to generate hydrogen in a safe and efficient way. The aim of this study is to find an equilibrated solution between minimal BoP and a correct performance, always into safety conditions of hydrogen generation. Automation software is used to model the system and perform a control logic, according to the desirable operation of the PEM electrolyzer. The BoP developed, along with the electrolyzer model and the control logic proposed contribute the PEM electrolysis technology to be expanded in the industrial market and the hydrogen to be widely used as energy carrier, as part of the renewable energy systems.