Connected Sensors : Efficient Hydrogen Storage and Transport

Hydrogen has become a key energy solution in the transition to a decarbonized economy. This energy carrier, presented as a promising alternative to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, could meet 20% of global energy needs by 2050, according to the International Energy Agency (IEA). Its applications span transportation, heavy industry, and renewable energy storage. Discover the IEA report here. However, behind its potential, the widespread adoption of hydrogen involves significant technical challenges, particularly in its transport and storage. Hydrogen is a highly flammable gas that requires extreme pressures for storage (up to 700 bars) or very low temperatures (-253°C) when in liquid form. These conditions demand robust infrastructure and constant monitoring. At the same time, industry players must meet strict requirements for traceability and regulatory compliance while optimizing logistical costs : such is the role of connected sensors.

The hydrogen market is booming, supported by ambitious policies aimed at reducing carbon emissions and diversifying energy sources. The European Union recently allocated €9 billion to support the development of green hydrogen. This hydrogen, produced from renewable energy, is seen as a key solution for decarbonizing critical sectors such as heavy industry, heavy transportation, and energy production.

In Asia, countries like Japan and South Korea position themselves as leaders in adopting this technology, investing in robust infrastructure for hydrogen transport and storage. In North America, similar initiatives are emerging with the development of hydrogen corridors for heavy transportation.

Despite this promising growth, the challenges to overcome remain numerous. First, hydrogen must be transported and stored under specific conditions, involving equipment capable of withstanding very high pressures or cryogenic temperatures. These constraints increase the risk of incidents, such as leaks or container ruptures, requiring constant monitoring.

At the same time, international regulations impose strict standards in terms of safety and traceability. Companies operating in this sector must ensure that their equipment complies with ATEX standards (for explosive environments) and maintain detailed records to prove their compliance.

Finally, logistical challenges include optimizing transport routes, managing stock levels to meet demand, and reducing operating costs. These issues require advanced technological solutions to improve the planning and execution of operations.

This is where connected sensor solutions find their relevance. By ensuring real-time monitoring of equipment, these devices improve safety, reduce operating costs, and enhance operational efficiency. Four Data, a company specializing in monitoring technologies, offers a solution dedicated to the hydrogen market, combining industrial expertise and technological innovation.

Faced with the complex challenges of hydrogen transport and storage, Four Data has designed a solution specially adapted to meet these needs: the MEGC Hydrogen Monitoring System. This cutting-edge technology relies on connected sensors to provide a comprehensive and precise view of equipment, from storage to final deliveries.

The core of the innovation lies in the integration of pressure, temperature, and GPS location sensors. These devices not only allow real-time monitoring of equipment status but also anticipate anomalies to prevent interruptions and improve performance. Four Data has thus developed a tool that meets the specific needs of operators in the hydrogen sector.

The equipment offered by Four Data is designed to meet the most stringent industry standards, such as ATEX certifications for explosive environments. This ensures safe use even in the most extreme conditions. For example, pressure sensors can measure levels up to 600 bars and withstand temperatures from -25°C to +85°C. Their stainless-steel construction gives them exceptional durability.

Moreover, the integrated GPS modules offer a location accuracy of 3 meters and work with the LoRaWAN protocol, ensuring reliable and economical data transmission over long distances. These advanced technologies combine to ensure optimal management of equipment, regardless of the operational environment.

Real-time monitoring is a central pillar of Four Data’s solutions. Connected sensors collect critical data (pressure, temperature, position) and automatically transmit it to the DESK & SENS digital platform. This platform serves as a centralized dashboard, offering a comprehensive view of equipment status.

Every data point collected is made available to operators in the form of clear reports. For example, pressure and temperature levels can be monitored to detect any anomalies, while GPS location data enables tracking of equipment in transit. This proactive approach helps reduce risks and improve operational planning.

One of the major advantages of the system lies in its ability to generate alerts. In case of critical thresholds being exceeded, such as excessively high pressure or unstable temperature, operators are immediately notified via SMS, email, or push notifications. These alerts enable rapid intervention, thus limiting the risk of major incidents.

These features are accompanied by the ability to configure custom thresholds based on the specific needs of each site or operation. This ensures that the system adapts to the unique requirements of clients.

The data collected is not limited to real-time monitoring. It is also analyzed to detect trends and predict future needs. For example, by tracking tank filling and emptying cycles, operators can identify equipment requiring maintenance before a problem arises. This reduces unplanned downtime and optimizes operating costs.

Four Data’s solutions meet the strictest safety requirements, an imperative in the hydrogen sector. Thanks to continuous monitoring and real-time alerts, operators can anticipate anomalies before they become critical. This ability to detect issues at an early stage significantly reduces the risk of accidents.

Furthermore, the sensors are designed to operate in challenging environments, such as industrial sites or areas exposed to extreme climatic conditions. Their robustness ensures reliable performance, even in the most demanding situations.

The integration of GPS sensors allows for optimization of route management and delivery planning. By tracking equipment positions in real-time, operators can reduce unnecessary trips, improve delivery times, and lower associated costs. This logistical optimization also translates into a reduction in carbon footprint, an essential goal for companies committed to the energy transition.

Moreover, stock management is facilitated thanks to the visualization of remaining hydrogen levels on the DESK & SENS platform. Operators can plan replenishments proactively, avoiding situations of shortage or overstocking.

Regulatory requirements in the hydrogen sector are strict, particularly regarding equipment traceability and safety compliance. Four Data’s solutions offer complete traceability through detailed historical data collected. This information can be used to demonstrate operational compliance to regulators and build customer trust.

The ATEX certification of the equipment ensures their safety in explosive environments, a crucial criterion for operators working in high-risk areas.

A European operator specializing in hydrogen transport integrated Four Data’s solutions to monitor its fleet of MEGC trailers. Before implementation, the company frequently faced interruptions due to uncontrolled pressure anomalies. Thanks to the installation of connected sensors, it was able to monitor equipment status in real-time, anticipate maintenance needs, and optimize delivery routes.

The results were significant: a 30% reduction in equipment-related incidents and a 25% decrease in logistical costs thanks to route optimization. These improvements resulted in increased customer satisfaction and overall performance enhancement.

One of the strengths of Four Data’s solutions lies in their ease of installation. Practical guides and clear instructions accompany the equipment to ensure smooth installation.

Four Data complements this offer with dedicated training to enable its clients to master every step of the process. This session includes practical demonstrations on the physical installation of sensors, their configuration via online platforms, and advice based on the company’s field expertise. Thus, companies can quickly integrate the solutions into their operations while minimizing disruptions.

Four Data supports its clients at every step of the solution’s deployment, from the installation of sensors to their continuous maintenance. The devices are integrated into existing equipment with minimal operational impact, ensuring a seamless transition to an advanced monitoring system.

Once the system is in place, the company also provides continuous technical support, including assistance when needed.

In a rapidly expanding market, where safety, efficiency, and sustainability are crucial, Four Data’s solutions stand out for their reliability and precision. By combining cutting-edge technologies with proven expertise, the company addresses the complex challenges of hydrogen transport and storage.

With an approach focused on innovation, Four Data plays a key role in the global energy transition. Its connected sensor solutions secure and optimize operations, contributing to a sustainable energy future. For more information on these technologies, discover Four Data’s offer here.