Peak Scientific Precision Hydrogen SL User manual

Precision Hydrogen SL (All Models)
User Manual
Copyright © Peak Scientific Instruments Ltd 2022 — Precision Hydrogen SL User Manual Rev 7 RSID 3516 EN —25/05/2022

Contents
Change History 3
How to use this Manual 3
Safety Notices 4
Attention - Important Notice to All Users 5
General Safety 6
Generator Safety Features 6
Health and Safety Data 7
De-ionizer Resin 7
Desiccant 9
Molecular Seive 11
EU Declaration of Conformity 13
UK Declaration of Conformity 14
CSA Compliance Statement 15
WEEE Compliance Statement 16
Warranties and Liabilities 17
Technical Specification 18
Introduction 19
Principle of Operation 20
Unpacking 21
Fittings Kit Contents 22
Installation 23
Location 23
Generator Overview 24
General Dimensions 24
Unit Controls 25
Rear Connections 25
Tubing 26
H2 Ventilation 26
Water Quality 26
Manual Water Tank Filling 27
Automatic Filling (Automatic Fill Upgrade units only) 28
Pressurized Filling (Automatic Fill Upgrade units only) 29
Inline Water Filter Cleaning (Automatic Fill Upgrade units only) 29
Water Usage 30
Electrical Connection 31
Start-up Sequence 32
Liquid Leak Detectors 32
Gas Traps 32
Switching the Unit O 33
Cleaning 33
De-ionizer cartridge Replacement 34
Replacement of Desiccant Capsule 35
Service Requirements 37
Service Schedule 37
Service Plans 37
General Troubleshooting 38
Overview of LED Colour States 38
Debugging by LED 39
Page 2

Page 3
Change History
Rev Comment Name Date
1Initial Release L. Couttie 10/04/2020
2Product Updates L. Couttie 20/01/2021
3 Product Updates L. Couttie 10/03/2021
4Product Updates L. Couttie 26/03/2021
5Flow Rate Update C Denholm 07/10/2021
6Declarations Update L. Couttie 13/12/2021
7 Dryer Cap Removal Tool Added L. Couttie 05/05/2022
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 of a hard copy version can refer to the contents page to find the relevant
information. Users of the soft copy version can use the hyperlinks from the contents
page as well as the hyperlinks between sections.
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 the Peak Partner from which you purchased your Generator.

Page 4
WARNING
WARNING
WARNING
CAUTION
WARNING
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 may be impaired.

Page 5
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.
Generator is for indoor use only.
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 glass or Nalgene 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 2 year generator
warranty void.
3. If you are using a manual fill system, the tank cap must be replaced after filling the
tank with water.
4. If your system requires an external tank, 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.
5. Use ASTM Type I or Type II water only. (<1 µS/cm conductivity / >1 MΩ-cm resistivity).
Failure to use the correct quality water will invalidate the cell and system warranty.
6. Failure to maintain the de-ionizer cartridge as recommended will reduce the
operational life of your generator and render its 2 year generator warranty void.
7. Do not attach any additional tanks or gas cylinders to your generator without first
consulting Peak Scientific.
8. Ensure your entire installation, both pipe work and analysers, are completely gas
tight. Even minor leaks will affect the operation of your generator and can reduce
its operational life.
9. Check that the output capacity of your generator meets the total gas requirements
of your application. If in doubt, consult your dealer or Peak Scientific.
10. Ensure the ambient temperature inside your laboratory does not rise above
35°C/95°F. Extremes of operating temperature will reduce cell life.
WARNING
WARNING

Page 6
General Safety
The generator 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 175ml
at a pressure of 7.6bar (110psi). 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 Series generators have the necessary control circuitry,
both hardware and software, to ensure the shutdown of the instrument in the event of a
fault or faults occurring.
The rear section of the generator should only be opened by trained
personnel in line with maintenance instructions.
Generator Safety Features
The Precision Hydrogen range have the following safety features to ensure safe and
reliable operation:
• Overpressure switch.
• Safe and accurate control of pressure.
• Internal leak detection.
• Cell shut down in critical alarm status.
• Critical water level detection.
• Internal water overflow prevention.

Page 7
Health and Safety Data
De-ionizer 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
Cylinder 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 8
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 9
Desiccant
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
Column containing orange to green indicating silica gel.
Chemical Components
Amorphous silica 98.2%, activated colouring agent 0.2% max.
Form Beads
Flash Point N/A
Colour Dry: yellow/orange Saturated: Green
Ignition Temperature >1000 °C
Odour Odourless
Explosion Limits N/A
Decomposition Temperature Over 155 °C
Vapour Pressure @ 25 °C 17mm CFH @ 20 °C (Water)
Viscosity @ 25°C N/A
Solubility in Water less 1.0% in weight
pH @ 25 °C 2-10 at 5% w/w in water
Eye Protection Safety Glasses (BS2092C)
Storage All containers must be closed air tight and kept in a dry
place.
Fire & Explosion Hazards N/A
Disposal This product can be disposed as ordinary waste if local
regulations permit.
Emergency & First Aid Procedures
Spillages
Contain spillage. Collect in suitable containers for recovery or disposal. During collection
avoid creating dust.
Extinguishing Media
N/A. Inorganic compound. Not combustible.
Fire Fighting and Protection
Wear HSE approved, pressure demand, self-contained breathing apparatus or
equivalent.

Page 10
First Aid
Skin Contact
Wash spillage from skin with soap and water.
Eye Contact
Wash immediately with copious amounts of water and obtain medical attention.
Inhalation
Remove from source of exposure.
Ingestion
Wash out mouth with water. If large amount swallowed or symptoms develop obtain
medical attention.
Toxicological Data
The lethal dose for humans for synthetic amorphous silica is estimated at over 15,000
mg/kg
Occupation exposure limits
DNEL/PNEC < 1 = No immediate concern.
Incompatible Materials (to avoid hazardous reactions)
None known.

Page 11
Molecular Seive
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
Column containing white to tan molecular sieve.
Chemical Components
Quartz (SiO2) <10%, balance Zeolite.
Form Spheres
Flash Point N/A
Colour White to tan
Ignition Temperature N /A
Odour Odourless
Explosion Limits N/A
Decomposition Temperature N/A
Vapour Pressure @ 25 °C N/A
Viscosity @ 25°C N/A
Solubility in Water Insoluble
pH @ 25 °C N/A
Eye Protection Safety Glasses (BS2092C)
Storage All containers must be closed air tight and kept in a dry
place.
Fire & Explosion Hazards N/A
Disposal This product can be disposed as ordinary waste if local
regulations permit.
Emergency & First Aid Procedures
Spillages
Contain spillage. Collect in suitable containers for recovery or disposal. During collection
avoid creating dust.
Extinguishing Media
N/A. Inorganic compound. Not combustible.
Fire Fighting and Protection
Wear HSE approved, pressure demand, self-contained breathing apparatus or
equivalent.

Page 12
First Aid
Skin Contact
Wash spillage from skin with soap and water.
Eye Contact
Wash immediately with copious amounts of water and obtain medical attention.
Inhalation
Remove from source of exposure.
Ingestion
Wash out mouth with water. If large amount swallowed or symptoms develop obtain
medical attention.
Toxicological Data
The lethal dose for humans for synthetic amorphous silica is estimated at over 15,000
mg/kg
Occupation exposure limits
DNEL/PNEC < 1 = No immediate concern.
Incompatible Materials (to avoid hazardous reactions)
None known.

Page 13
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 SL
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: 7th October 2021

Page 14
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 SL
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: 7th October 2021

Page 15
CSA Compliance Statement
CSA Group (Canadian Standards Authority) is a Nationally Recognised Testing
Laboratory (NRTL), headquartered in Toronto Canada.
They are authorised to evaluate product to both their own and Underwriters Laboratory
(UL) standards and certify the product to be in compliance to the relevant standards.
Peak products are certified to the current in force revision of the following standards
in order to cover both Canadian and United States requirements for “Safety
Requirements for Electrical Equipment for Measurement, Control and Laboratory use,
Part 1: general Requirements”.
Canada: CAN/CSA C22.2 No 61010-1-12
United States: UL 61010-1
As a result the products covered by this statement are certified and listed by CSA
accordingly and are entitled to carry the CSA mark with both Canadian and United
States subscripts , as shown below on the product rating label.

Page 16
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 17
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 twenty-four
months from the date of delivery or twenty-five months from the date of dispatch
from the factory. The 24m warranty is conditional on completion of replacement of the
de-ionizer cartridge every 12 months from the date of first use of the generator and use
of the correct grade of deionized water (ASTM type II, <1 µS/cm conductivity / >1 MΩ-cm
resistivity). Failure to change the de-ionizer cartridge and supply the correct grade of
de-ionized water will render the 24 month warranty null and void.
3. 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.
4. 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.
5. 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 3 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 4 hereof).
6. 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.
7. 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 5 above) that may be suffered by the Customer or any third party.

Page 18
Technical Specification
Precision Hydrogen SL
Environment
100 cc 200 cc
Minimum Operating Ambient Temperature 10°C (50°F)
Maximum Operating Ambient Temperature 35°C (95°F)
Maximum Altitude 3000 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 100 cc/min 200 cc/min
Purity 99.9995%
Gas outlet 1 x 1/8” Swagelok compression fitting
Delivery pressure 100 psi (6.9 bar)
Electrical Requirements
Voltage 100-240VAC +/-10%
Frequency 50/60 Hz
Current 6A Max.
Input Connection C14 Connection
Power Cord (Supplied) C13 socket to local connection (10A minimum)
Pollution Degree 2
Installation / Over Voltage Category II
General
Generator Dimensions cm 16.0 (6.3”) x 38.5 (15.2”) x 25.0 (9.8”)
Generator Weight 8 kg (17.6 lbs)
Shipping Crate Dimensions cm 73 (28.7”) x 52 (20.5”) x 37 (14.6”)
Shipping Weight 23.2 kg (51.1 lbs)
Heat Output 983 BTU / Hr
Water Purity Requirement ASTM Type II (<1 µS/cm / >1 MΩ-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 19
Introduction
Precision Hydrogen SL has been developed to provide a source of high purity hydrogen
gas, suitable for GC detector gas supply.
Features include:
• Easy to use single button interface
• Status indicative lighting feature
• Purities of up to 99.9995%
Precision Hydrogen SL is based on proven technology, producing hydrogen by
electrolysis using a Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) cell. Moisture removal is achieved
by a two-stage patented Nafion technology and dessiccant drying.
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 20
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 electrolyser used in the Peak Scientific hydrogen generator is known as a Proton
Exchange Membrane (PEM) electrolyser. This type of electrolyser was first described
in the mid-1960’s by General Electric as a method for producing oxygen for the Gemini
space program. PEM electrolysis has been continually developed since its introduction
and has remained the state-of-the-art technology for water electrolysis and the
production of high purity hydrogen ever since.
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:
Anode Reaction
H2O(l) ½O2(g) + 2H+
(aq) + 2e-
Cathode Reaction
2H+
(aq) + 2e-H2(g)
Deionised water is critical to the operation of the system and must have a purity of
ASTM Type II or better to prevent damage to the membrane. Failure to use this grade
of deionised water will invalidate the 2 year warranty of your 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 input is lost as heat and this is removed from the
generator by the ventilation system.
The Peak Scientific hydrogen generator generates hydrogen on demand. By maintaining
the 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 water 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.