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What type grade of stainless steel plates and size for a hydrogen engine project?

My name is Gary Nelson. I am working on an hydrogen project to run a lawn mower or other small gas fired equipment to start with. This a new project with my son and myself to work on. He is excited in doing this project on the farm to play with. This is all new to me, he has done a lot of reading and I had a few questions to start with. I know the method has been around a long time and want to same time and money by not reinventing the wheel. By checking with other persons that may already be involved in the concept.
Thank you for your help.

Gary Nelson
Specification writer in the construction industry - West Bend, Wisconsin, USA
July 27, 2008

I think we need a bit more information on what the plates are required for.

If you're looking to make hydrogen gas, then I would suggest biting the bullet and buying a tank. Manufacturing hydrogen is relatively easy to do, but it's a bit dangerous (what with the risk of explosion and all), and I'm reasonably certain you don't have a safe or effective method of compressing the gas. Most welding supply stores can set you up with a tank.

The engine itself should be able to use hydrogen as a fuel with no modifications, the combustion process remains much the same. The major modification I think you will need to make is to the fuel intake, make sure it's airtight and you can regulate the air/fuel mixture. A concern may also be the operating temp of the engine to the flash point of the hydrogen air mixture, it's been awhile since my last chemistry course so I'm a bit foggy on what it is.

I think the easiest way to regulate the air/fuel mixture would be to have both a pressurized hydrogen tank and a pressurized air tank, both regulated, with blow-backs. This will allow you to adjust both sides of the equation in a controlled manner from a safe distance (long hoses are a bonus here).

Marc Banks
Blacksmith - Melbourne, Florida
July 31, 2008

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