The PSA hydrogen buffer tank is a pressure vessel specifically designed to stabilize the pulsating hydrogen flow from Pressure Swing Adsorption (PSA) hydrogen production units. PSA systems inherently produce periodic fluctuations in flow and pressure due to multi‑tower alternating adsorption, pressure equalization, desorption, and regeneration cycles. These fluctuations can cause frequent control valve actuation, pressure regulator oscillation, compressor instability, and downstream pressure collapse or interlock false triggering.

The engineering value of the PSA hydrogen buffer tank lies in converting this “periodic pulsation source” into a controlled, stable pressure and flow window through its gas‑phase buffering capacity. By absorbing fluctuations during tower switching and equalization phases, the tank ensures downstream equipment sees a relatively smooth, predictable pressure profile.

Key Specifications

Parameter	Value
Product name	PSA Hydrogen Buffer Tank
Volume range	1m³ – 120m³ (customizable)
Design pressure	Determined by PSA outlet pressure (typically 1.6MPa / 2.5MPa or higher)
Material	Q345R or customized based on operating conditions
Structure type	Vertical or horizontal
Connection method	Welded or flanged

Key Features

System Position and Function

Typically installed between PSA outlet and downstream compression/purification/pipeline network
Serves as a primary pressure stabilization node
Compensates for peak flow demands during sudden gas consumption increases
Provides transient capacity for instantaneous pressure spikes

Volume Determination Logic

Volume selection based on “fluctuation source – allowable fluctuation – response window” analysis
Buffers low‑frequency periodic fluctuations and transient spikes
Prevents oversized tank causing slow system response and increased purge/commissioning costs

Safety and Pressure Boundary

Safety valve set point positioned away from normal fluctuation range
Prevents frequent valve lifting and hydrogen loss
Discharge paths directed to safe areas to avoid combustible gas accumulation

Structural Design

Clean internal design without unnecessary internals
Clear inlet/outlet flow paths to avoid short‑circuiting
Drain and vent ports for complete draining and safe depressurization
Corrosion and fatigue resistance for cyclic loading conditions

Instrumentation and Control

Local pressure gauge and remote pressure transmitter
Temperature monitoring for thermal effect assessment
Coordinated compressor start/stop logic with pressure window settings
Control bandwidth alignment with downstream regulation valves

Specifications

Component	Description
Volume range	1m³ – 120m³ (customizable)
Design pressure	1.6MPa / 2.5MPa or higher (based on PSA outlet)
Material	Q345R or customized per operating conditions
Structure	Vertical or horizontal
Connections	Welded or flanged

Delivery and Transportation

Scope of Supply

Tank body
Safety accessories
Required interfaces

Documentation

Material certificates
Welding records
Non‑destructive testing reports
Pressure test reports

Packaging and Protection

Interface sealing
Dust and moisture protection
Fixed transportation to prevent deformation

Technical Support

Foundation condition confirmation
On‑site installation technical support

Applications

PSA hydrogen production system downstream stabilization
Hydrogen compression station inlet buffering
Industrial hydrogen supply pipeline networks
Fuel cell hydrogen supply systems
Chemical process hydrogen feed stabilization

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Where should the buffer tank be installed?
A: The buffer tank is typically installed between the PSA outlet and downstream compression/purification/pipeline networks as a primary pressure stabilization node.

Q2: How is the tank volume determined?
A: Volume is determined based on PSA cycle time, switching frequency, pressure fluctuation range, instantaneous peak flow, downstream allowable pressure drop, and control system response time.

Q3: What pressures are available?
A: Typical design pressures are 1.6MPa and 2.5MPa, with higher levels available upon request.

Q4: What material is used for the tank?
A: The standard material is Q345R, with other materials available based on operating conditions.

Q5: What safety features are included?
A: The tank is equipped with safety valves, pressure gauges, and proper vent/drain systems for safe operation.

Q6: Can the tank be customized?
A: Yes, volume, pressure rating, material, structure type, and connections can be customized based on project requirements.

hydrogen buffer vessel

PSA Hydrogen Buffer Tank