Effects of perforated plate on hydrogen flow in L-shaped high pressure reducing valve

Abstract

Pressure reducing devices are the most vital component of the on-board hydrogen supply system. A good pressure reducing system design helps to achieve long-distance and efficient driving of the hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicle. In this study, a newly L-shaped high pressure reducing valve is proposed for hydrogen decompression. Perforated plate is the most vital throttling component. However, the effects of the perforated plate on hydrogen flow in L-HPRV is not clear now. Therefore, the effects of typical perforated plate parameters as shape, row (n), orifice diameter (d), chamfer radius (r) and pressure ratio (Pi/P1) on the L-HPRV fluid dynamics are investigated. Furthermore, based on the parametric sensitivity analysis, the optimized design of the L-HPRV is achieved. Results show that the L-HPRV is well-designed for hydrogen decompression. The circle, rhombus shaped perforated plate, and the larger diameter help achieve better fluid dynamics during the hydrogen decompression process. The perforated plate numbers have a reduction effect on both the pressure and velocity gradients, while the perforated plate pressure ratio has a proportional effect. This study reveals the perforated plate effects on hydrogen flow for the first time, and provides technological support for experts to achieve throttling design of related control valves in hydrogen industry.