Peak Scientific Precision Hydrogen 1200cc User manual

Precision Hydrogen 1200cc (All Models)
User Manual
Copyright © Peak Scientific Instruments Ltd 2021 — Precision Hydrogen 1200cc User Manual Rev 8 RSID 2379 EN —31/08/2021

Contents
Change History 3
How to use this Manual 3
Introduction 4
Health and Safety Data 5
Deioniser Resin 5
Warranties and Liabilities 7
Safety Notices 8
Symbols 8
Safety Notice to Users 8
Attention - Important Notice to All Users 9
Declaration of Conformity 10
Environmental Declaration 11
Technical Specification 12
Principle of Operation 13
General Safety 14
Generator Safety Features 15
Unpacking 16
Fittings Kit Contents 17
Unpacking Instructions 17
Transit Plug Removal 18
Installation 19
Location 19
Generator Overview 20
General Dimensions 20
Unit Controls 21
Rear Connections 21
Tubing 22
H2Ventilation 22
Water Quality 23
Automatic Filling 23
Water Usage 26
Electrical Connection 27
Start-up Sequence 28
Liquid Leak Detectors 28
Gas Traps 28
H2Detector Option 29
Expanding Capacity 30
Rear Connections 30
Switching the Unit Off 31
Cleaning 31
Deioniser Column Replacement 32
Service Requirements 34
Troubleshooting 35
Page 2

Page 3
Change History
Rev Comment Name Date
1 Initial Release Liam Couttie 09/02/2018
2 Transit Plugs Added Liam Couttie 22/03/2018
3 Trace Model Information Added Liam Couttie 23/07/2018
4 Cell Warranty Update Liam Couttie 24/09/2018
5 Warranty Information Update Liam Couttie 26/11/2018
6 Accreditation Update Liam Couttie 05/11/2019
7 Purity Update Liam Couttie 25/05/2021
8 Declarations Update Cleo Denholm 31/08/2021
How to use this Manual
This manual is intended for end users and has been written so that it can either be read
as a step by step guide to installation and usage or as a reference document where you
can skip to the relevant information.
Users can refer to the contents page to find the relevant information.
Please review each of the following sections carefully.
Thank you for selecting Peak Scientific to meet your Gas Generation needs, and should
you require any further assistance or support please do not hesitate to contact Peak
Scientific or Peak Partner from which you purchased your Generator.

Page 4
Introduction
The Precision Hydrogen 1200cc has been developed to cater for the requirements of GC
instruments.
This generator provides a source of high purity hydrogen gas, suitable for carrier gas if
used in conjunction with carrier gas traps and detector gas.
Other features include:
• Easy to use touch screen interface
• Status indicative lighting feature
• Stackable with other Precision units
• Purities of up to 99.9995% (Standard) and 99.9999% (Trace).
The Precision Hydrogen 1200cc is based on proven technology, it produces hydrogen by
electrolysis using a Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) cell. Moisture removal is achieved
by a maintenance free Pressure Swing Adsorption (PSA) dryer.
To ensure this generator model meets our high expectations with regards to reliability
and performance, we have tested this model extensively at our manufacturing plant and
in the field to ensure reliability and longevity of the system.

Page 5
Health and Safety Data
Deioniser Resin
This sheet to be retained by the ‘Health & Safety Officer’
The recipient of this Health & Safety Data sheet is required to ensure that all personnel
handling, using or likely to come into contact with the material are made aware of the
Health & Safety information contained herein.
General Description
Bag containing ion exchange resin. 60% Cation and 40% Anion by mass.
Chemical Components
Polystyrene divinylbenzene cation and ion exchange resin.
Form Solid beads
Flash Point N/A
Colour Ta n
Ignition Temperature 427 °C (Estimated)
Odour None
Explosion Limits N/A
Decomposition Temperature Over 220 °C
Vapour Pressure @ 25 °C 17mm CFH @ 20 °C (Water)
Viscosity @ 25°C N/A
Solubility in Water Negligible
Specific Gravity @ 25°C 1.1-1.3
pH @ 25 °C 7-9.5 in aqueous slurry
Eye Protection Safety Glasses (BS2092C)
Storage Store in a cool place above 0 °C, out of direct sunlight
Fire & Explosion Hazards Toxic combustion products may include sulphur dioxide
and sulphur trioxide
Disposal This product can be disposed as ordinary waste if local
regulations permit
Emergency & First Aid Procedures
Spillages
Floor may be slippery. Use care to avoid falls. Wear protective glasses.
Sweep up and transfer to containers for recovery and disposal.
Extinguishing Media
Carbon Dioxide (CO2), Water Fog and Dry Powder.
Fire Fighting and Protection
Wear HSE approved, pressure demand, self-contained breathing apparatus or equivalent.

Page 6
First Aid
Skin Contact
Wash effected areas with soap and water. Consult doctor if irritation persists.
Eye Contact
Product can cause severe eye irritation. Flush eyes with large amounts of water for at
least 15 minutes. Consult a doctor if irritation persists.
Inhalation
This product should present no hazard if operated under normal conditions. If irritation
persists, move patient to fresh air.
Ingestion
If resin has been confined to the mouth, administer 250 ml. of water as a mouthwash.
Avoid swallowing. This product is considered non-hazardous if ingested in small
amounts; however, it is advisable to seek medical advice.
Toxicological Data
No toxicity data available on this product
Occupation exposure limits
STEL/TLV = None established.
Incompatible Materials (to avoid hazardous reactions)
Avoid contact with concentrated nitric acid and any other strong oxidising agents at all
times.

Page 7
Warranties and Liabilities
1. The Company warrants that it has title to the Goods.
2. Subject to the provisions of this clause the Company warrants that the Goods
shall comply in all material respects with any specification referred to in the Order
Confirmation (as the same may be amended) and shall, subject thereto, be free
from defects in material and workmanship for the lesser of a period of twelve
months from the date of delivery or thirteen months from the date of dispatch
from the factory.
3. Subject to the provisions of this clause the Company warrants that the Hydrogen Cell
shall comply in all material respects with any specification referred to in the Order
Confirmation (as the same may be amended) and shall, subject thereto, be free from
defects in material and workmanship for the period of three years from the date of
delivery.
4. Save as provided in this clause and except where the Goods are sold to a person
dealing as a consumer (within the meaning of the Unfair Contract Terms Act
1977) all warranties, conditions or other terms implied by statute or common
law are hereby expressly excluded save to the extent they may not be lawfully
excluded. When the Goods are sold to a consumer within the meaning of the Unfair
Contract Terms Act 1977 their statutory rights are not affected by the provisions of
this clause.
5. In the event of the Customer making a claim in respect of any defect in terms of
clause 2 hereof the Customer must.
1. Reasonably satisfy the Company that the Goods have been properly installed,
commissioned, stored, serviced and used and without prejudice to the generality
of the foregoing that any defect is not the direct or indirect result of lack of repair
and/or servicing, incorrect repair and/or servicing, use of wrong materials and/or
incorrect spare parts.
2. Allow the company to inspect the Goods and/or any installation and any relevant
packaging as and when reasonably required by the Company.
6. Subject to the Company being notified of any defect as is referred to in sub-
clause 2 hereof within a reasonable time of it becoming apparent and subject always
to the terms of sub-clause 4 hereof, the Company shall, in its option, replace or repair
the defective Goods or refund a proportionate part of the Price. The Company shall
have no further liability to the Customer (save as mentioned in sub-clause 6 hereof).
7. The Company shall be liable to indemnify the Customer in respect of any claim
for death or personal injury to any person in so far as such is attributable to the
negligence or breach of duty of the Company or any failure by the Company to
comply with the provisions of sub-clause 2 hereof.
8. Save as provided in sub-clause 2 hereof the Company shall not be liable in respect
of any claim by the Customer for costs, damages, loss or expenses (whether direct,
indirect, consequential or otherwise) or indemnity in any respect howsoever arising
including, but not by way of limitation, liability arising in negligence (other than
pursuant to clause 6 above) that may be suffered by the Customer or any third party.

WARNING
WARNING
WARNING
WARNING
Page 8
CAUTION
Safety Notices
Peak Scientific Instruments cannot anticipate every possible circumstance which may
represent a potential hazard. The warnings detailed within this manual refer to the most
likely potential hazards, but by definition cannot be all inclusive. If the user employs an
operating procedure, item of equipment or a method of working which is not specifically
recommended by Peak Scientific, the user must ensure that the equipment will not be
damaged or become hazardous to persons or property.
Symbols
This manual uses the following symbols to highlight specific areas important to the safe
and proper use of the Generator
A WARNING notice denotes a hazard. It calls attention to an operating procedure,
process or similar, which if not correctly performed or adhered to, could cause
personal injury or in the worst case death. Do not proceed beyond a WARNING
notice until the indicated conditions are fully understood or met.
A CAUTION notice denotes a hazard. It calls attention to an operating procedure,
process or similar, which if not correctly performed or adhered to, could cause
damage to the generator or the application. Do not proceed beyond a CAUTION
notice until the indicated conditions are fully understood or met.
Caution, risk of electric shock. Ensure power to the generator has been removed
before proceeding.
Safety Notice to Users
These instructions must be read thoroughly and understood before
installation and operation of your Peak Precision Hydrogen Generator.
Use of the generator in a manner not specified by Peak Scientific MAY
impair the SAFETY provided by the equipment.
When handling, operating or carrying out any maintenance, personnel
must employ safe engineering practices and observe all relevant local
health and safety requirements and regulations. The attention of UK
users is drawn to the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974, and the
Institute of Electrical Engineers regulations.
If the equipment is used in a manner not specified by the manufacturer,
the protection provided by the equipment maybe impaired.

Page 9
Attention - Important Notice to All Users
These instructions must be read thoroughly, section by section and
understood before installation and operation of your Peak Scientific
Hydrogen Generator. Please follow the appropriate safety standards for
handling hydrogen gas and other gases as determined by the laws and
regulations of your country.
Please save the product packaging for storage or future shipment of the generator.
1. For your own personal safety and to prevent accidental damage to your generator
please ensure that you read and understand our User Manual.
2. Do not store away the generator when not in operation . External water bottles must
be made of a dark coloured material in order to prevent biological growth (available
from Peak Scientific). It is recommended that you check the water quality weekly to
prevent biological growth developing in the tank and tubing. Failure to do this will
greatly reduce the life of the generator and render the 3 year cell warranty void.
3. Do not place the external water bottle above the height of the generator. The bottle
may be placed at the same level or below the generator.
4. Use only high grade de-ionised water (1μS/cm or better). Failure to use the correct
quality water will invalidate the cell and system warranty. Do not attempt to connect
pressurised water to the generator.
5. Failure to maintain the Deioniser Cartridge as recommended will reduce the
operational life of your generator and render its 3 year cell warranty void.
6. Do not attach any additional tanks or gas cylinders to your generator without first
consulting Peak Scientific.
7. Ensure your entire installation, both pipe work and analysers, are completely gas
tight. Even minor leaks will affect the operation of your generator and generally
reduce its operational life.
8. Has your generator been correctly sized for your application? If in doubt, consult your
dealer or Peak Scientific.
9. Ensure the ambient temperature inside your laboratory does not rise above
35°C/95°F. Extremes of operating temperature will reduce cell life.
WARNING

Page 10
EU Declaration of Conformity
We Peak Scientific Instruments Ltd.
Of Fountain Crescent, Inchinnan, Renfrewshire, PA4 9RE
Hereby declare that, this declaration of conformity is issued under the sole
responsibility of the manufacturer.
Equipment Type: Hydrogen Generator
Model Designator: Precision Hydrogen 1200cc (All Models)
To which this declaration relates, is in conformity with the following applicable EU
Directives, harmonized standards, and other normative requirements.
• Low Voltage Directive 2014/35/EU
EN 61010-1: 2010 Safety Requirements for Electrical Equipment for Measurement,
Control and Laboratory Use.
• Electromagnetic Compatibility Directive 2014/30/EU
EN 61326-1: 2013 Electrical Equipment for Measurement, Control and Laboratory
Use – EMC Requirements. (Class A)
• Restriction on the use of certain hazardous substances in electronic equipment
(RoHS) Directive 2011/65/EU as amended by EU 2015/863.
• FCC 47 CFR Part 15 class A
Unintentional radiators; Conducted and Radiated emissions limits.
Signed for and on behalf of Peak Scientific by
Signed:
Name: Fraser Dunn
Position: Design Engineering Manager
Peak Scientific Instruments ltd,
Inchinnan, Renfrew, Scotland, PA4 9RE, UK.
Date: 31st August 2021

Page 11
UK Declaration of Conformity
We Peak Scientific Instruments Ltd.
Of Fountain Crescent, Inchinnan, Renfrewshire, PA4 9RE
Hereby declare that, this declaration of conformity is issued under the sole
responsibility of the manufacturer.
Equipment Type: Hydrogen Generator
Model Designator: Precision Hydrogen 1200cc (All Models)
To which this declaration relates, is in conformity with the following applicable UK
Statutory Instruments, Standards and other normative requirements.
• The Electrical Equipment (Safety) Regulations 2016 (SI 2016 / 1101) as amended.
BS61010-1:2010 Safety Requirements for Electrical Equipment for Measurement
Control and Laboratory Use.
• The Electromagnetic Compatibility Regulations 2016 (SI 2016 / 1091) as amended.
BS61326-1:2013 Electrical Equipment for Measurement , Control and Laboratory Use
– EMC Requirements.
• The Restriction of the Use of Certain Hazardous Substances in Electrical and
Electronic Equipment Regulations 2012 (SI 2012 / 3032) as amended.
Signed for and on behalf of Peak Scientific by
Signed:
Name: Fraser Dunn
Position: Design Engineering Manager
Peak Scientific Instruments ltd,
Inchinnan, Renfrew, Scotland, PA4 9RE, UK.
Date: 31st August 2021

Page 12
WEEE Compliance Statement
The Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Regulations SI 2013 No 3113
and or the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) Directive 2012/19/EU
apply to all electrical and electronic equipment placed on the market in the UK and EU
covered by the scope of regulations which can be found in the Government Guidance
Notes (PDF) produced by the Department for Business Innovation and skills for the UK
and here for Europe.
All PEAK products that are subject to the WEEE directive are compliant with the
WEEE marking requirement. Such products are marked with the “crossed-out wheelie
bin” symbol (shown below) in accordance with European standard EN50419. All
old electrical equipment can be recycled. Please do not dispose of any electrical
equipment (including those marked with this symbol) in general rubbish bins. Please
contact your dealer or distributor for clarity.

Page 13
Technical Specification
Precision Hydrogen
Environment
1200cc 1200cc Trace
Minimum Operating Ambient Temperature 10°C (50°F)
Maximum Operating Ambient Temperature 35°C (95°F)
Maximum Altitude 2000 m
Maximum Relative Humidity 90% Non-Condensing
Minimum Storage Temperature* 10°C (50°F)
Maximum Storage Temperature* 25°C (77°F)
Generator Outlets
Max Flow Rate 1200 cc/min
Purity 99.9995% 99.9999%
Gas outlet 1 x 1/8” Swagelok compression fitting
Delivery pressure 0-100 psi (0-6.9 bar)
Electrical Requirements
Voltage 100-230VAC
Frequency 50/60 Hz
Current 10A Max
Input Connection C14 Connection
Power Cord (Supplied) C13 socket to local connection (10A minimum)
Pollution Degree 2
Insulation Category I
General
Generator Dimensions cm (W x D x H) 38.0 (14.9”) x 54.0 (21.2”) x 40.6 (15.9”)
Generator Weight 31.5Kg (69.5 lbs)
Shipping Crate Dimensions cm (W x D x H) 54.0 (21.2”) x 70.0 (27.5”) x 49.0 (19.2”)
Shipping Weight 38 kg (83.8 lbs)
Noise Level @ 1 m 20 dB
Heat Output 1000 BTU / Hr
Water Purity Requirement <1.0µ Siemens/cm OR >1 Mohm-cm
* When taken out of storage the Generator should be allowed to acclimatize at room
temperature for a minimum of 3 hours before operation.

Page 14
Principle of Operation
The Peak Scientific hydrogen generator produces high purity hydrogen gas(H2).
Hydrogen does not occur naturally on earth and must be formed via the decomposition
of other molecules, in this case via the splitting of water molecules into hydrogen and
oxygen in a process known as electrolysis.
The state of the art in water electrolysis is the Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM)
electrolyser. This technology was first described in the mid-1960s by General Electric as
a method for producing electricity for the Gemini Space Program and later adapted for
electrolysis. This process has been continually developed ever since. All Peak Scientific
hydrogen generators utilise PEM technology .
The most important element of the generator is the electrolyser cell where the
electrolysis reaction takes place. This consists of two electrodes (an anode and a
cathode), which are separated by the proton exchange membrane which gives the
technology its name. During operation, deionised water is fed to the anode of the
electrolysis cell where it is split into oxygen, protons and electrons with the aid of a
precious metal catalyst. The oxygen is vented to atmosphere from the generator. The
protons travel across the membrane and simultaneously the electrons travel around the
external electrical circuit. These protons and electrons then recombine at the cathode of
the electrolyser, again with the aid of a precious metal catalyst to produce the hydrogen
gas. The high purity of the hydrogen is assured by the membrane which completely
separates the hydrogen produced at the cathode from the oxygen being produced at
the anode. These processes are described by the following equations:
Cathode 2H+
(aq) + 2e-= H2(g)
Anode H2O(l) = ½O2(g) + 2H+
(aq) + 2e-
Deionised water is critical to the operation of the system and must have a purity of
1 µS/cm or better to prevent damage to the membrane. Failure to use this grade of
deionised water will invalidate the 3 year cell warranty of the generator. The water is
automatically loaded (either at power up or periodically during operation) and the rate
at which the water is consumed depends on the amount of hydrogen being produced.
A small amount of the electrical energy is lost as heat and this is removed from the
generator by the ventilation system.
The Peak Scientific hydrogen generator produces hydrogen on demand. By maintaining
the user’s pre-set pressure and using this as a reference value, the generator will
produce the precise amount of hydrogen required. As soon as the demand ceases, no
further hydrogen will be sent to the user’s application. During this time bubbles may still
be observed in the separating tank. This is due to the generator maintaining its internal
pressure and ensuring that clean, dry hydrogen is available immediately on demand
when the user requires it.

Page 15
General Safety
The generator only produces gas when the application places a demand on the unit.
The maximum quantity of hydrogen stored in the generator at any one time is 350cc
at a pressure of 6.9bar (100psi). The unit also meets the European Electromagnetic
Compatibility and Low Voltage Directives. The Generator is CE approved and has the
CE mark attached.
All of the Precision Hydrogen generators have the necessary control circuitry, both
electrical and mechanical, to ensure the shutdown of the instrument in the event of a
fault or faults occurring.

Page 16
Generator Safety Features
The Precision Hydrogen range have the following safety features to ensure safe and
reliable operation:
1. To avoid any build up of hydrogen from leaks inside the unit; the generator features
forced air ventilation. This ensures that a hydrogen / oxygen mixture cannot form
inside the generator.
2. On power-up the generator self checks for internal leaks and if required it will
shutdown at the end of the System Check informing the operator with a visual and
audible alarm.
3. The generator will detect any hydrogen leaks that occur within the generator, the
user’s application and gas lines. In the event of a major leak the generator will
automatically shut down within 20 minutes.
4. The hydrogen pressure inside the generator should only reach a maximum of 7.5 bar
(110psi) and this is controlled in two ways:
a. Gas pressure is monitored and controlled electronically by a pressure sensor
b. A mechanical pressure switch (Fail Safe) will electrically isolate the hydrogen cell
should the internal pressure reach 9 bar (130psi).
5. When the generator is in alarm status the following occurs:
a. The current to the cell is stopped so no hydrogen is generated therefore preventing
a hazardous situation.
b. The over pressure relief valve opens allowing the unit to depressurise.
c. An audible alarm sounds and a visual alarm, relevant to the fault condition, is
displayed. The generator can sense for internal and external leaks, excessive gas
demand and lack of water.

Page 17
Unpacking
Although Peak Scientific takes every precaution with safe transit and packaging, it is
advisable to fully inspect the unit for any sign of transit damage.
Check ‘SHOCKWATCH’ and ‘TIP-N-TELL’ labels for signs of rough handling prior to
unpacking.
Any damage should be reported immediately to the carrier and Peak Scientific or the
Peak Partner from where the unit was purchased.
Follow the unpacking instructions posted on the side of the crate. It will require two
people to remove the unit from the shipping crate and to manoeuvre the generator onto
the bench.
Please save the product packaging for storage or future shipment of the generator.
Note: Included with the Generator is a “Fittings Kit” containing mains power leads for
UK, EU & US and also all the required fittings and warranty registration card. Be careful
not to discard these with the packaging.
Page 17

Page 18
Fittings Kit Contents
Supplied in the Fittings Kit are all the fittings required to connect the generator to the
application. The contents of the Fittings Kit are as follows:
1. Tygon Tubing x 1m
2. Teflon Tubing x 1m
3. Deioniser Column Resin Refill x 1
4. Barbed Hose Fitting x 1
5. UK Mains Power Cable x 1
6. EU Mains Power Cable x 1
7. US Mains Power Cable 110v x 1
8. US Mains Power Cable 230v x 1
9. Installation Guide– Precision Hydrogen x 1
10. 4 or 8 Litre Water Bottle** x 1
11. Transit Plugs x 2
**Optional Extra, Includes additional Barbed Hose Fitting
All of the generator output ports are located on the rear of the generator.
Unpacking Instructions
The generator weight constitutes a two person lift and as such, safe lifting practices
should be employed; do not attempt to lift on your own, as you will significantly increase
the chance of injury & damage to yourself and others around you.
1. Remove the packing straps and lift the lid upwards.
2. Next remove the fittings kit tray and the outer cover that makes up the main box of
the packaging.
3. Next, with someone on either side of the unit, position your hands underneath the
unit ready to lift.
4. Ensuring your knees are bent and your back is straight, lift the unit to the desired
location.

Page 19
Transit Plug Removal
All hydrogen generators should be fitted with two Transit Plugs 3301437 during the
packaging process. These plugs are fitted to the H2vent and O2vent of all hydrogen
units and ensure no water from the internal water bottle can escape during transit.
Plugs should be removed during the installation of the generator.
These plugs require very little force to remove and will self-remove if left in the vents
33014373301437

Page 20
Installation
Location
The generator should be located on a flat, level surface for operation - this will ensure
that the water level sensors within the unit operate correctly. Some components in the
generator produce heat during operation and therefore an adequate airflow must be
maintained around the generator to allow the ventilation system to perform efficiently.
If the generator is stored in an enclosed space the environment must be controlled via
an air conditioner or extraction fan. The provision must be made to allow the volume of
air in the room to be changed 5 times per hour. The rear of the generator will become
warm to the touch during operation - a minimum clearance of 15 cm (6”) from other
bodies is recommended.
Do not obstruct or connect the vents to any application. Failing to observe this could
lead to permanent damage of the generator.
Please ensure generator is positioned so as to permit easy disconnection if required.
Do not expose the unit to freezing conditions. Please adhere to the operating
temperatures below:
Minimum Operating Ambient Temperature: 10 °C (50 °F)
Maximum Operating Ambient Temperature: 35 °C (95 °F)
Note: It is recommended that the Precision Hydrogen 1200cc unit is left to run for 3
hours, and the Precision Hydrogen Trace 1200cc unit is left to run for 24 hours before
use.