What is a Hydrogen-Cooled Generator?

A Hydrogen-Cooled Generator is a type of electrical generator that utilizes hydrogen gas as a cooling medium instead of air or conventional cooling systems. Due to hydrogen's exceptional thermal conductivity and low density, this cooling method significantly enhances heat dissipation efficiency. Consequently, hydrogen-cooled generators offer superior performance and lower energy losses compared to traditional systems.

Moreover, hydrogen is a lightweight gas that reduces friction and drag on rotating parts, thus decreasing mechanical workload, minimizing energy losses, and improving overall generator efficiency. These advantages make hydrogen-cooled generators the preferred choice for power plants and large-scale industrial facilities, as they support long-term, safe, and cost-effective electricity generation

Operating Principle of Hydrogen-Cooled Generators

In most power plants, high-pressure steam is used to drive turbines that spin at high speeds. These turbines are coupled to generators, which convert mechanical energy into electrical energy. This process generates a substantial amount of heat, necessitating an efficient cooling system to maintain safe and stable operation. Hydrogen is utilized in this cooling process due to its two outstanding properties:
1. High thermal conductivity (enabling effective heat transfer)
2. Low viscosity and viscosity (reducing resistance and allowing smooth rotor operation.)

If a generator with a capacity of 900 MW experiences a hydrogen purity range from 99% to 96%, power loss due to increased heat can reach 670 kilowatts, equivalent to the electricity consumption of approximately 1,000 households. This underscores the critical importance of maintaining hydrogen purity for optimal performance.

Key Advantages of Hydrogen-Cooled Generators Over Conventional Cooling Systems

1. Maximum Cooling Efficiency
Hydrogen has a thermal conductivity 7 times greater than air, allowing the generator to cool more efficiently. This supports highoutput, continuous operation and reduces energy loss, resulting in superior performance and longer equipment lifespan.

2. Reduces energy loss and saves capital costs
A reduction in hydrogen purity from 99% to 96% can lead to 670 kW of additional energy loss. Maintaining high-purity hydrogen prevents such losses, significantly reducing electricity production costs.

3. Improved Operational Efficiency
With proper system design and hydrogen purity maintained between 80% and 100%, the generator can operate at optimal efficiency, ensuring high reliability and safe performance over long durations.

Maintain the Hydrogen-Cooled Generator System Safely and Precisely

Due to hydrogen’s flammable and explosive characteristics, maintenance must follow strict protocols to ensure safety. The maintenance process is divided into three key phases :

Phase 1: Normal Operation
Hydrogen purity is continuously monitored to ensure a safe operating threshold. The system should maintain a hydrogen concentration above 98.70% H₂ for stable generator operation.
Phase 2: Hydrogen Purge Before Maintenance
Before maintenance, hydrogen is purged using CO₂ to displace the hydrogen from the generator. This process ensures that the remaining gas mixture contains hydrogen at concentrations between 4% and 75%, minimizing the risk of combustion
Phase 3: Preparation for Maintenance
After hydrogen has been purged, CO₂ is removed from the system before opening the generator. This ensures the internal environment is free from flammable gases, allowing for safe access.

Environmental Benefits of Hydrogen Cooling Systems

Hydrogen cooling is environmentally friendly, producing zero emissions and no harmful particulates. The system operates in a closed loop, ensuring that no hydrogen is released into the atmosphere. This makes it an ideal solution for companies aiming to reduce carbon emissions and transition toward sustainable energy practices.

Investment Value and ROI of Hydrogen-Cooled Generators

Investing in hydrogen-cooled generators results in:

Lower energy loss
Increased production efficiency
Extended equipment lifespan
Reduced maintenance and operational costs

These factors contribute to an excellent return on investment (ROI) and are particularly beneficial for large-scale power plants and industrial operations seeking to enhance performance and sustainability.

Conclusion: Hydrogen-Cooled Generator—The Optimal Solution for High-Efficiency Power Generation

Hydrogen-Cooled Generators offer superior cooling performance, enhanced safety, and sustainable operation. Their ability to reduce energy losses and support stable, high-output electricity production makes them the preferred choice for today’s advanced power infrastructure.

If you’re looking for solutions to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and elevate your power generation toward a sustainable future, we—Analytical System Engineering (Thailand)—are your answer! With a team of professionals and extensive experience, we are ready to provide consultation and support at every step.

Join us in building a stable and secure energy future.
Contact us at:
Line: @ase-thai
Email: sales@ase-thai.com
Tel: 083 298 9222