As the global push towards clean energy intensifies, hydrogen has rapidly become a cornerstone in the transition to low-carbon technologies. Industries from automotive to aerospace and energy storage are integrating hydrogen-based solutions at an unprecedented rate. However, with this evolution comes the demand for accurate, durable, and safe pressure measurement. This is where the hydrogen compatible high precision pressure transducer becomes an essential component of any hydrogen system.

At ESI Technology, we have spent decades developing cutting-edge pressure sensing technology that meets the exacting requirements of emerging energy systems. Our hydrogen compatible high precision pressure transducer is engineered to meet and exceed industry standards, offering unmatched performance, reliability, and safety.

Why hydrogen pressure measurement presents unique challenges

Hydrogen is the smallest and lightest molecule in existence, which means it can permeate many materials over time. In addition, hydrogen can cause embrittlement in metals, leading to long-term reliability issues in standard sensors. Therefore, any pressure transducer used in hydrogen environments must be specially designed to resist these effects.

Furthermore, hydrogen systems often operate at high pressures—up to 1,500 bar in many applications. Accurate and stable readings at these extremes are essential, whether in hydrogen fuel cell vehicles, refueling stations, electrolyzers, or industrial storage tanks.

Engineered for performance: silicon-on-sapphire sensor technology

At the heart of our hydrogen compatible high precision pressure transducer lies our proprietary silicon-on-sapphire sensor technology. This advanced sensor structure delivers outstanding performance, including:

• Exceptional accuracy and repeatability

• High thermal stability over a wide operating range

• Minimal signal drift over time

Sapphire’s robust crystalline structure provides excellent insulation and mechanical strength, allowing our sensors to maintain accuracy even in the most demanding hydrogen environments.

Tested and certified for hydrogen use

We take hydrogen compatibility seriously. That’s why our hydrogen compatible high precision pressure transducer is rigorously tested to ISO 11114-2:2017 and meets the requirements of EC79/2009 and EU406/2010—European directives that govern the safety of hydrogen-powered vehicles and equipment.

This ensures that each transducer we deliver is suitable for use in high-pressure hydrogen environments, with proven resistance to hydrogen embrittlement and long-term material degradation.

Titanium alloy sensor for chemical compatibility

To further enhance durability and reliability, we manufacture our sensor diaphragm using a specialist titanium alloy. Titanium offers excellent chemical compatibility with hydrogen and resists corrosion, fatigue, and hydrogen ingress. This not only extends the lifespan of the transducer but also ensures that it continues to deliver high accuracy readings throughout its service life.

Broad pressure range and environmental resilience

Our hydrogen compatible high precision pressure transducer range is available in pressure ranges up to 5,000 bar, making it ideal for applications from low-pressure to ultra-high pressure applications.

In addition, these transducers offer:

• High thermal stability across a wide temperature range

• Resistance to vibration and mechanical shock

• Excellent long-term stability, even in challenging environments

Whether operating in outdoor refuelling stations or within confined hydrogen-powered vehicles, these transducers consistently deliver dependable performance.

ATEX/IECEx and mining-ready options

Safety is a key concern in any pressurised hydrogen system. That’s why we offer versions of our hydrogen compatible high precision pressure transducer that are certified to ATEX/IECEx standards, including M1 rating for mining applications. This makes our transducer suitable for use in potentially explosive atmospheres, adding an extra layer of safety assurance for operators.

Conclusion

As hydrogen continues to power the clean energy future, precise and reliable pressure measurement becomes more important than ever. ESI Technology’s hydrogen compatible high precision pressure transducer is built to meet the toughest challenges of hydrogen applications—combining advanced sensor technology, rugged materials, and international certification into one highly reliable solution.

If you’re developing or operating hydrogen systems and need a transducer you can trust, get in touch with our team to discuss how our solutions can meet your specific needs.