Principles of PEM Electrolyser Operation

Summary

Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) electrolysis is a key technology enabling the production of clean, sustainable hydrogen using renewable electricity.

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the operation, components, and safety considerations of PEM electrolysers. Participants will gain a thorough understanding of the electrochemical principles, system architecture and balance of plant that underpins modern PEM electrolyser systems.

Designed for energy professionals and engineers, the training covers essential topics such as hydrogen safety protocols, water purification, power supply management, and control systems. Through a combination of theory, case studies, and practical exercises, attendees will develop the knowledge and skills needed to operate, maintain, and optimize PEM electrolyser technology in the context of the growing green hydrogen economy. 

Who should attend?

• Project Engineers and Managers involved in the design, planning, execution, and monitoring of projects related to hydrogen production. 
• Engineers involved in PEM electrolysis optimised efficiency, reliability and performance.
• EC&I Engineers (Electrical, Control, and Instrumentation) responsible for testing and troubleshooting the performance of PEM electrolysis systems.
• Commissioning Engineers who responsible for commissioning and bringing PEM electrolysis systems into operation.
• Renewable Energy Professionals dealing with hydrogen production and storage.
• Industry Professionals who work in industries related to hydrogen production, fuel cells, clean energy technologies, sustainable energy initiatives or those involve in technologies related to hydrogen production and storage. 

How will I benefit?

• List the six major dangerous properties of hydrogen and identify the applicable safety mechanisms for an acceptable safety integrity level (SIL). 
• Define the three hazardous zones and understand their implications tofor safety compliance. 
• Describe current best industry practices to enhance safety, efficiency, cost effective operation, simplified system designs, and reliability.
• Group 11, Grouped object Generalise the full balance of plant of an advanced, Megawatt scale PEM Electrolyser and name pressure categories of systems.
• Understand the electrochemical operation of a PEM Electrolyser Cell/ Stack and describe advanced design characteristics and industry standards of reliable stacks.
• Distinguish purpose of and operation of the Water Purification System including water conductivity requirements.
• Gain detailed knowledge of the dryer and deoxidiser, including other parts of the gas handling system and pressure control.
• Analyse the make-up of the DC Power Supply Unit including voltage and current levels.
• Distinguish the control system for automated generation and enhanced safety.
• Bridge the gap between research knowledge and real-world PEM electrolyser operations  

Key topics

Module 1: Introduction to Electrolysis Applications of PEM Electrolysis Environment and Sustainability. Case Studies and Practical Examples 

Module 2: Hydrogen Safety - Compliance and Regulations 

Module 3: System Overview 

Overview of Entire Electrolyser System including Balance of Plant (BoP) 

Module 4: Electrolyser Stack PEM Electrolyser Components Working Principles 
Operating Parameters Energy Input and Efficiency Durability 
Challenges and Future Developments 

Module 5: Water Purification System Module 6: Hydrogen Purification 
Gas separation and purification 

Module 7: Power Supply and Stack Power Module 8: Control System 

Module 9: Operation and Maintenance 

Module 10: Economic Analysis and Emerging Technologies

Meet our trainers

These trainers regularly teach Principles of PEM Electrolyser Operation .