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Hydrogen Storage and Compression

Photo of a hydrogen fuel dispenser

Hydrogen fueling nozzle at the University of California, Irvine

All hydrogen fueling stations must employ some form of hydrogen storage.

When hydrogen gas is delivered to or generated at a fueling station, it is stored in banks of aboveground containers that must meet strict functional and operational requirements. The hydrogen is first routed to a compressor. Gaseous hydrogen is usually stored in vehicles at 5,000 psi and must be dispensed at somewhat higher pressure. Gaseous hydrogen typically is compressed in stages, and the pressurized hydrogen is stored in banks of containers so that the hydrogen is cascaded in increments of pressurization.

When liquid hydrogen is delivered to a fueling station, it is stored in special double-walled, vacuum-insulated storage vessels. These vessels can be sited aboveground or below-grade and must meet functional and operational requirements. Liquid hydrogen storage containers have inner walls of half-inch-thick stainless steel plate that are designed to contain pressures of 150 psi. They are tested to 225 psi, but the actual pressure of the tank is normally around 100 psi. In addition, the containers have redundant relief valves that automatically open to vent small quantities of hydrogen safely through the vent stack if normal pressure levels are exceeded. Liquid hydrogen can be pumped directly to some hydrogen-fueled vehicles. Others require that the liquid be converted to compressed gas using a vaporizer and compressor.

Hydrogen storage codes and standards address equipment requirements, installation, maintenance, leak detection, and venting. Learn more about codes and standards related to hydrogen storage and compression.