China releases first draft standard for Type 4 Hydrogen Composite Cylinders

China releases its draft national standard for Type 4 Hydrogen Composite Cylinders, 35 MPa and 70 MPa. "Fully-wrapped carbon fiber cylinder with a plastic liner for the on-board storage of compressed hydrogen as a fuel for land vehicles."

China's hydrogen fuel cell industry is moving forward full speed ahead. This standard is based on ISO 19881-2018 with some key improvements for safety. The ISO standards for on-board fuel containers, CNG and hydrogen, are largely self-certified by the cylinder manufacturer with minimal involvement of independent inspection agencies. The ISO standards in general do not address periodic retesting and reinspection.

The China standard, on the other hand, adds controls for safety. Most of the factory processes must be automated to prevent human workers from making changes. Regular inspections and periodic requalification are addressed. And Inspection Agencies are involved at the time of qualification testing and for production and shipping of each production batch as well.

This standard is written in Chinese language, of course. Feel free to contact me for more information.