Is On-Site Hydrogen Generation Safe?

Hydrogen fuel is bound to be a valuable alternative energy resource for the transportation sector.  Cars, trucks, and other equipment using hydrogen fuel enjoys the benefits of quick fill-ups, equivalent miles between refueling, and strong horsepower.  In other words, hydrogen fuel is the closest alternative to gasoline and diesel for long-range drivers and commercial vehicle owners.

One of the most significant challenges facing fuel station owners who want to diversify their fuel options with hydrogen is compiling accurate sales forecasts, achieving efficient orders from suppliers, and having adequate storage facilities.

The Andretti Group with PowerTap Hydrogen changes all of that.  With our technology and less than 1,000 square feet of space, you can create the right amount of fuel to meet your customers’ needs.

Many business owners considering investing in this new technology are left with one question:  “Is it safe?”

Yes, on-site hydrogen generation is very safe.

You can rest assured that all of our equipment meets significant safety standards and regulations.  Plus, we’ll provide you with the necessary training to monitor the generators and ensure everything is operating correctly.

Additionally, producing hydrogen fuel on-site is much safer than ordering it from a supplier and storing it in tanks.  Fuel generators can work 24/7 if needed to maintain a supply for your customers.  That means there’s no reason to bulk up on hydrogen fuel inventory and maintain large storage tanks hoping that your forecasted sales are accurate.  With PowerTap’s on-site generators, as you sell inventory, you can generate more to replenish it, keeping only a reasonable amount on hand at all times.

Besides, there are many other aspects of hydrogen fuel that make it safer than conventional gasoline:

1. It’s not toxic.  Hydrogen is a naturally occurring element, so if it is released into the environment, it causes no harm.
2. It evaporates quickly.  Hydrogen is 14 times lighter than air and 57 times lighter than gasoline vapor.  In the event of a spill, hydrogen dissipates into the air exceptionally quickly–reducing the chances it could catch fire.
3. It’s not as hot.  Hydrogen has a lower radiant heat than conventional gasoline, so the air around the flame isn’t as hot.  This reduces the chances of secondary fires.
4. It requires more oxygen to explode than fossil fuels.  For a material to explode, it needs oxygen.  Conventional gasoline requires a concentration of 1 to 3% oxygen to explode.  On the other hand, hydrogen needs 18 to 59% concentration.

Combined, these four elements mean that it is improbable that a hydrogen spill would lead to fire or explosion.

If you’re ready to consider adding hydrogen fuel to your product mix, contact The Andretti Group today!

PowerTap Hydrogen allows fuel station owners to produce hydrogen fuel on-site, with a production unit taking up less than 1,000 square feet of space.  Our units can produce over 1,250 kg of pure hydrogen each day using only city water, natural gas, and electricity.  With PowerTap Hydrogen, it’s possible to produce fuel at less than $2 per kilogram–that’s about $9 less than purchasing hydrogen fuel from a wholesaler or producing it onsite via alternative solutions.

If you’re interested in diversifying your current product mix or would like to begin a journey in the exciting future of alternative energy solutions, contact our team at the Andretti Group today.  We’d love to show you how easy it is to be a part of the hydrogen fuel revolution.