What is the difference between PEM electrolysis and alkaline electrolysis?
PEM (Proton Exchange Membrane) electrolysis uses a solid polymer electrolyte membrane instead of a liquid alkaline solution. This enables faster load response, higher current density, more compact design, and the ability to produce hydrogen at elevated pressure without additional compression. PEM does not require caustic electrolyte management, which reduces handling hazard and maintenance complexity. Alkaline electrolysis is typically lower cost at large industrial scale.
What water quality is required as feed to the generator?
PEM electrolysis requires deionised or RO-purified water. Typical conductivity requirements are below 1-5 µS/cm, but the exact specification depends on the model. Using tap water or insufficiently purified water will accelerate membrane and stack degradation and will void performance guarantees. An integrated water treatment module is available as an option if compliant water supply is not available at the installation site.
Can the generator operate continuously (24/7)?
PEM hydrogen generators are designed for continuous operation. Duty cycle capability -- including any required rest intervals, planned downtime for consumable replacement, and scheduled maintenance windows -- should be confirmed per model and application during the application review stage. Confirm rated operating hours per year and any planned downtime with the technical team.
What is the typical lead time from order to delivery?
Standard models typically require 6-10 weeks from order confirmation to factory acceptance test completion. Custom configurations, non-standard certifications, or special interface requirements will extend this timeline. Confirm lead time during application review, especially for projects with fixed site acceptance dates.
Is on-site commissioning included or available?
On-site commissioning support is available for international projects. This can be provided in person or remotely via video guidance depending on equipment complexity, installation environment, and customer capabilities. Commissioning scope and responsibility boundaries are confirmed during contract review.
Can the equipment be integrated into a SCADA or DCS system?
Yes. Standard configurations include digital and analogue I/O for remote run/stop, alarm output, and process signals. Modbus RTU/TCP is available as a standard option. Other protocols (Profibus DP, EtherNet/IP, Profinet) are available subject to project confirmation. The full interface control document should be reviewed by your control system engineer before integration design begins.
What happens if the hydrogen purity does not meet the specification?
Purity is guaranteed at rated operating conditions with compliant feed water and after the standard system warm-up period. If purity at rated conditions does not meet specification during FAT or site acceptance, H2Byeast will investigate and resolve the root cause. Purity degradation in service is typically associated with consumable replacement needs (desiccant, catalyst) or feed-water quality drift -- both addressed by planned maintenance.
Are certifications included, and which markets are they valid for?
Applicable certifications depend on the product model and target market. H2Byeast holds certifications for selected markets. Certifications are presented with model coverage, applicable standard, and issuing body -- not as generic product-wide guarantees. Request the certification statement for your specific model and destination country during the inquiry process.
