Proton Energy lands hydrogen-tech patent

Wallingford hydrogen-technology producer Proton Energy Systems said today it earned a patent for its proprietary control system for regulating the purity and pressure of the fuel.

The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office award for its StableFlow hydrogen control system enhances its reputation as a global innovator in hydrogen technology, the company said.

One of its innovations is a commercial electrolysis device that produces hydrogen from water.

Proton also recently landed several Department of Defense projects, including developing regenerative fuel cell systems for backup power and creating advanced fueling systems for a military fleet of hydrogen-powered vehicles.

With the StableFlow system, electric-power generators that rely on hydrogen for fuel can monitor its purity, dew point and pressure, which provides more efficient power production and enhances capacity and generator life, Proton said.

Proton claims its StableFlow system can save most plants an average of one megawatt per hour, worth between $50 and $100 per hour, per generator in losses by reducing friction.