The Positive Effects of Utilizing Continuous Hydrogen Replenishment in Electric Power Generators

The purity of hydrogen used within electric power generators has a direct effect on cooling efficiency, windage friction losses, generating capacity and generator longevity. Hydrogen’s high thermal conductivity is the primary reason it is used as the cooling media in a generator instead of air. Hydrogen has a thermal conductivity of nearly seven times that of air, and its ability to transfer heat through forced convection is about 50% better than air. Maintaining hydrogen’s high thermal conductivity through purity monitoring and continuous improvement is important to the overall operation of hydrogen cooled electric generators. Continuous hydrogen replenishment has been proven to be an effective technique in maintaining purity within hydrogen cooled electric generators. A properly implemented continuous replenishment system will maintain a consistent high level of purity, low gas dew point, and constant pressure within the generator.Copyright © 2005 by ASME