Pre-cooling systems in modern hydrogen liquefaction

The research work presents recommendations for choosing a circuit design for low-capacity hydrogen liquefaction plants with a production rate up to 20 kg/h or 0,48 tpd (ton per day). Main design criteria considered are specific energy cost, as well as capital costs and overall characteristics of the system. A review of theoretical and real hydrogen liquefaction cycles is presented. Mathematical models of different circuits are built up considering real parameters of the typical equipment. The advantages and disadvantages of certain solutions are identified, efficiency trends in terms of hydrogen liquefaction plants are analysed. According to the obtained results of the research main of the circuits for low-capacity hydrogen liquefaction plants are selected.