Bulletin H2-500F

Parker Balston Model H2-500

Installation, Operation, and Maintenance Manual
Hydrogen Generator
Parker Balston Model H2-500 ®

Technical Hydrogen Generator

Information
®

Figure 1 - Hydrogen Generator with

flow bargraph and water check

WARNING: This product generates hydrogen gas. If hydrogen is contained and combined
with oxygen and an ignition source, it can create an explosion. While normal use of this
product would not create an explosion hazard, care must always be taken when using
hydrogen. Failure to operate this product in accordance with instructions set forth in this
manual can create a hazardous situation.

• Do not use a hydrogen gas storage vessel in conjunction with the hydrogen genera-
tor. Stored quantities of hydrogen pose an explosion hazard.
• Normal precautions for any hydrogen supply should be taken when using the hydro-
gen generator. Do not use in a sealed or unvented room.
• DO NOT USE AN OPEN FLAME OR OTHER IGNITION SOURCE WITHIN 10 INCHES
(25cm) OF THE OXYGEN VENT!

CAUTION: This product is shelf life sensitive. Do not store for more than
3 months prior to installation and operation. Failure to follow this will cause
the product to fail due to the drying of the membrane used for separation.

These instructions must be thoroughly read and understood before installing and operat-
ing this product. Any modification of the product will void the warranty. Failure to operate
this product in accordance with the instructions set forth in this manual could jeopardize
the safety of the operator.

If you have any questions or concerns, please call Technical Services Department at
800-343-4048, 8AM to 5PM Eastern Time (North America only). For other locations, please
contact your local representative. Send email to: [email protected].

General Description The Hydrogen Generator Model H2-500 (see Figure 1), is a completely engineered system
designed to produce ultra-pure, dry hydrogen gas from deionized water using a Proton Exchange
Membrane cell1 . The hydrogen generator utilizes the principle of electrolytic dissociation of water
and hydrogen proton conduction through a Solid Polymer Electrolytic membrane. The hydrogen
stream is purified using a coalescing filter, a drying tube, and a palladium purifier. The outlet pres-
sure of the unit is 90 psig (6.12 barg) with a maximum hydrogen delivery flow rate of 500 cc/min.

The hydrogen generator is ideal for use in Flame Ionization Detectors (FIDs), Thermal Conduc-
tivity Detectors (TCDs), Trace Hydrocarbon Analyzers, and other general laboratory equipment
requiring a source of pure hydrogen.
Bulletin TI-H2-500E

 1
The purity of the hydrogen gas produced by the Parker Parker Hannifin Corporation
Balston hydrogen generator1is 99.99999+% with respect Filtration and Separation Division
to oxygen. Haverhill, MA • 1-800-343-4048
Bulletin H2-500F Parker Balston Model H2-500
Hydrogen Generator

The H2-500 Hydrogen Generator is certified to the electrical safety requirements as specified by
the IEC, CSA, and UL standards. This unit bears the CSA marking on the product label. Product
supplied to Europe carries the CE mark (230 VAC units only). The generator complies with EMC
standards.

Installation
General NOTE: All installation, operation and maintenance activities for the hydrogen generators
should be performed by suitable personnel using reasonable care.

The hydrogen generators are free-standing bench-top units. Do not suspend the generator
from the wall or ceiling. Its weight and size could pose a falling hazard. The generator should
be located indoors, protected from severe weather conditions, and free from excessive ambient
dust or dirt. Do not install the generator outdoors.

The ambient temperature of the air surrounding the generator must be 60-90°F (16 - 32°C). Do
not place the generator in an area where there is a chance of freezing. Place the hydrogen
generator in an upright position, on a level surface, in close proximity to both the electrical power
supply and the equipment requiring hydrogen.

Do not place generator over a source of heat, as this may cause the generator components to
overheat. Maintain adequate airflow around the generator to reduce heat buildup. Do not block
the vents located on the back and the left side of the hydrogen generator. Do not locate the gen-
erator in a sealed or unvented room, or in close proximity to open flame or other ignition sources.
Do not locate the generator where it will be subject to freezing temperatures. The generator is
designed for indoor use only.

Symbols See Explanation of Symbols insert for a list of the symbols displayed on the generator and re-
ferred to in this manual.

Transporting The hydrogen generator weighs 45 lbs (20 kg). Use proper equipment and lifting techniques for
transporting this equipment to its installation location. The hydrogen generator is intended to re-
main stationary when filled with water. If necessary, the generator may be transported over short
distances when filled. Do not grasp the front panel when moving the generator, lift only from
the bottom. Keep the generator in an upright position.

Preparation Remove all red tape from the top cover, the back panel, inside the water bottles, and on any
other surfaces. Remove the red cap sealing the hydrogen outlet fitting and the bleed vent, on
the back of the unit.

Deionized Water Bags - Remove the deionizer bags from the plastic shipping container and
inspect for holes or tears. Insert the “T” end of the plastic cable running through the deionizer
bag into the hole of one of the water reservoir caps (see Figure 2). Pull the “T” end through the
hole to the outside of the cap (see Figure 3). Repeat for the other cap. Do not let any foreign
material fall into the water bottles. Insert one bag into each water reservoir.

Caution: Cell contamination is a cumulative and irreversible process, which will eventual-
ly cause an over-voltage, automatically shutting down the generator. The deionizer bags
are for a final decontamination stage and should not be used to purify low grade water.

Power - The hydrogen generator may be operated by a 100-120 / 200 -240 VAC, 50-60 Hz
Utilities single phase power supply (check the product label on the generator for specific generator volt-
age). To connect the generator to the power supply, simply plug the female end of the electrical
cord into the receptacle on the back of the generator, and the opposite end into a three-pronged
grounded power receptacle.

Deionized Water - The hydrogen generator must be supplied with deionized water with a
minimum resistivity of 5 Meg-Ohm/cm. Parker Hannifin provides a point of use accessory, the
HydroGen™ Mate (P/N 72-230) that provides high purity water (>5 Meg-Ohm/cm) from tap water
for manually filling the generator.

Parker Hannifin Corporation

2 Filtration and Separation Division
Haverhill, MA • 1-800-343-4048
Bulletin H2-500F Parker Balston Model H2-500
Hydrogen Generator

Piping - The outlet connection for the hydrogen generator is a 1/8” compression fitting, the
bleed port is 1/8” compression, and the relief port is 1/4” NPT. All tubing and fittings downstream
from the hydrogen generator should be clean stainless steel to minimize contamination of the
hydrogen stream. If copper tubing has been used with hydrogen in the past and has yielded ac-
ceptable results, there is no need to alter an existing piping configuration to install the hydrogen
generator.

Caution: If you pipe the gas away from the bleed port, the tubing must angle downward to avoid
water condensing in the line and plugging the vent to the purifier. Also, the bleed line must vent
to atmosphere to avoid introducing back pressure on the cell.

Pressure Regulator – The pressure is controlled using the Pressure Regulator located on the
front panel, exposed when opening the front gray panel door (see Figure 4). The pressure can
be monitored using the gauge located on the front of the unit. There is a Pressure Relief valve
inside the generator that is set for 125 psig (8.6 barg) in case of internal pressure build up. The
expelled gas is channeled through the Pressure Relief Port located on the back of the unit.

(Note: the generator pressure regulator is pre-set to deliver hydrogen at 90 psig.)

Shutoff Valve – The generator includes a shutoff valve located on the front panel behind the
gray door (see Figure 4). Use this valve to shut the unit off when not in use. In case of extended
periods of downtime see the Operation / Shutdown / Storage sections.

Figure 2 - Insert the “T” end Figure 3 - Pull the “T” through
of the deionzer bag through to the top of the cap.
the bottom of the water bottle
cap.

PRESSURE
REGULATOR
HIGH
HYDROGEN FLOW
INDICATOR



CHANGE WATER
INDICATOR  H2 FLOW

SHUTOFF
LOW WATER VALVE
 (CLOSED)
INDICATOR

START 

WATER
BUTTON DRAIN
PORT

Figure 4 - Control and Fault

Indicator lights located behind
the front gray panel.

Parker Hannifin Corporation

3 Filtration and Separation Division
Haverhill, MA • 1-800-343-4048
Bulletin H2-500F Parker Balston Model H2-500
Hydrogen Generator

Operation
Water Reservoir After carefully following all the preparation procedures in the Installation section, open the top panel and
remove the water reservoir caps (with the deionizer bags already attached). Fill both reservoirs with
deionized water until the level in the tank reaches the “Full” mark. It will take approximately 3 liters of
deionized water to fill the generator. Do not overfill the water bottles.

Insert the drain tube fitting (with drain tube attached) into the drain port and remove approximately
100 ml of water (see Figures 5, 6).

Make sure that the deionizer bags are fully immersed in the water and that they do not block the outlet
port on the bottom. Do not block the small vent hole in the water reservoir cap with the “T” fitting or any-
thing else. Be sure to remove all of the red tape that was applied to the unit for shipping purposes. Do
not let the deionizer bags dry out.

Note: The generator will automatically shut down if the water level becomes too low, or the water
quality is not sufficient.

Startup Open the gray panel door on the front of the generator to expose the generator controls (See Figure 4).
Turn the Shutoff Valve to the closed position. Connect the electrical power cord to the power receptacle
on the back left side of the generator, and connect the other end to the wall receptacle.
1 If the line needs to be purged before the hydrogen can be used in the instrument, make sure a
3-way valve is in the line near to the instrument.
Note: The recommended 3-way valve is Parker 2F-HB4X-K-SSP

2 Make sure all the gas connections are secure.

3 Set the Pressure Regulator (see Figure 4) to minimal pressure by turning the knob counter clock-
wise until the knob moves out approximately 1/2” from the front panel.
4 Turn on the Power Switch located on the power receptacle on the back. The Power and the No
Hydrogen Flow indicators should illuminate on the front panel (see Figure 7). Do Not Press
the START button.
Note: Except when the unit requires servicing, keep the Power Switch on, to prevent damage to the puri-
fier.

5 The unit must warm up for at least one full hour or damage will occur. The unit will beep once
every 60 seconds to let you know that there is no flow being produced.
6 After the minimum one hour warm up, press the Start button located on the front panel (see Fig-
ure 4). The Hydrogen Flow and the High Hydrogen Flow indicators should now be illuminated.
The bargraph will also illuminate, from zero to maximum. The No Hydrogen Flow indicator will be
off. Do not open the outlet valve until the bargraph has illuminated to maximum and started to de-
cline. This indicates that the internal system pressure is sufficient to provide the required hydrogen
flow.
Note: The High Hydrogen Flow light comes on when the generator is operating at the maximum flow
rate. During normal operation the indicator will be illuminated as the generator builds up pressure when
you first start the system or when you are running at or near the maximum capacity of the generator. If
the system senses that the pressure is not increasing at the internally preset rate or is actually decreas-
ing, the unit will assume abnormal conditions are present and automatically shut the unit down. If the
unit shuts down, press the start button to try to re-initiate flow. If this is not effective, then proceed to the
Mass Leak section for instructions.

7 Slowly open the Outlet Valve.

Note: The pressure will drop initially then begin to increase as the volume downstream begins to fill. The
High Hydrogen Flow light will be illuminated. If the volume is so large that the system is unable to main-
tain a preset filling rate then the Mass Leak error condition is reached and the unit will automatically shut
down. See Mass Leak section for instructions.

Parker Hannifin Corporation

4 Filtration and Separation Division
Haverhill, MA • 1-800-343-4048
Bulletin H2-500F Parker Balston Model H2-500
Hydrogen Generator

8 Purging - If you have installed a 3-way valve in the line and want to purge the lines, first turn
the 3-way valve to the closed position to pressurize the lines. Next turn the valve to the vent
position and vent the hydrogen gas for 2 minutes. Repeat the pressurization / purge routine
at least 5 times.
Note: Make sure that flow rate out the vent port is less than 500 cc/min to avoid shutting
the unit down. Use a needle valve or other flow restrictor on the vent.

9 Flowing - Turn the 3-way valve to the instrument flow direction. Adjust the flow controller on
the instrument until desired flow rate is reached, with a maximum of 500 cc/min.

Mass Leak Follow the instructions listed in the Initial Startup section. If the pressure continues to drop, the
High Hydrogen Flow (Mass Leak) light will illuminate (see Figure 4) and the generator will shut
down. A Mass Leak may be caused by a leak in the piping to the downstream equipment, or it
may be caused by the downstream piping volume being too large for the generator to fill. If it is
determined that a Mass Leak is present, please follow the procedure below:

1 Close the Shutoff Valve (see Figure 4, shown in the CLOSED position).
2 Press the Start switch to reset the Mass Leak detector which is indicated by the High Hydro-
gen Flow indicator light turning off (see Figure 4).
3 Re-pressurize the generator.
4 Repeat the Initial Startup procedure three times to verify the leak.

If the system continues to detect a leak, check all the external tubing connections and make sure
that the volume is not too large for the generator purchased (500 cc/min). If the leak still persists,
check the fittings inside the generator.

Caution: Do not use commercial leak detection fluids on any Lexan® plastic parts in the
generator. These fluids may cause cracking and crazing which leads to part failure. Use a solu-
tion of 4-5 ml of liquid dish soap in one liter of water.

Caution: Use extreme care when checking for internal leaks. Due to the nature of the gases
involved use a protective face shield or other appropriate equipment whenever servicing or trouble-
shooting the generator with the cover removed.

Parker Hannifin Corporation

5 Filtration and Separation Division
Haverhill, MA • 1-800-343-4048
Bulletin H2-500F Parker Balston Model H2-500
Hydrogen Generator

Operation
Operational Warning: Under no circumstances should the generator be operated with the cover removed.
Summary
To maintain the highest purity, the hydrogen generator should be run continuously. Monitor the
hydrogen consumption of the downstream equipment to ensure flow is within the capacity of the
generator (500 cc/min.). Both the Power Indicator light and the Hydrogen Flow Indicator light
should be illuminated (see Explanation of Symbols at the back of the manual).

The water level should be monitored regularly and refilled as necessary. The reservoirs hold
enough water for at least 3 days of continuous operation (3 liters total). Water can be added by re-
moving the cap of the water reservoir (do not pull the deionizer bag out) and adding enough water to
reach the Full mark on the front view port. Replace the cap, and make sure the deionizer bag does
not block any of the ports.

To maintain the integrity of the hydrogen cell, follow the guidelines listed below:

• Keep a supply of deionized water in the reservoir above the Refill line at all times.
• Minimize the “dead - volume” in the piping between the generator and the downstream equip-
ment.
• Never expose the unit to temperatures below freezing.
• Never abruptly open the Shutoff Valve to large volumes. The large hydrogen demand can trig-
ger the Mass Leak safety feature.
If the built-in diagnostics trigger a fault LED to illuminate, consult the Troubleshooting section of this
manual for further instructions.

Caution: Long periods of unattended operation are possible, provided that an adequate water sup-
ply is maintained. If more than 6 hours of standby service is anticipated, close the Shutoff Valve.

Note: To prolong the life of the purifier assembly, maintain power to the system unless extended
periods of non-use are expected.

Parker Hannifin Corporation

6 Filtration and Separation Division
Haverhill, MA • 1-800-343-4048
Bulletin H2-500F Parker Balston Model H2-500
Hydrogen Generator

Shutdown If the unit is to be idle for a few months or more, the generator should be turned off and the inter-
nal pressure vented.

Storage To store the unit:

1 Turn the Pressure Regulator counter-clockwise until the knob is about 1/2” from the front
panel (see Figure 4). Wait until the outlet pressure gauge reads zero.
2 Shut the Power OFF. Leave the generator connected to the downstream equipment or
switch the 3-way valve (if installed) to VENT.
3 Fill the tanks at least half full with deionized water. Make sure that the cell has at least 2”
(5 cm) of water showing in the cell assembly tube. This can be viewed from the vent holes in
the back of the generator.
4 Check the water level in the hydrogen cell assembly every 6 months to maintain the 2” (5cm)
water height.

Shipping If the generator is being returned to the factory for repair, contact the Technical Support Services
Department at 800-343-4048 for a Return Authorization (RA) number and new packaging if the
original is no longer available.
1 Turn the Pressure Regulator counter-clockwise until the knob is about 1/2” from the front
panel (see Figure 4). Leave the Shutoff Valve open and wait until the outlet pressure gauge
reads zero.
2 Shut the power off. Allow the generator to cool for a minimum of 4 hours.
3 Drain the water from the water reservoirs using the Drain Port Insert Kit. Connect a length of
tubing to the drain port inset fitting, and connect the fitting to the generator at the drain port.
The drain port is located on the front gray panel behind the gray door (see Figure 5).
4 Press down on the metal tab on the top of the Drain Port connector to remove the Drain Port
insert and tube after the unit has been drained (see Figure 6).
5 Place a piece of tape over the vent holes in the water bottles cap.
6 Pack the generator carefully in the original packing box or request new packaging from Park-
er Hannifin. Be sure to display the RA number on the outside of the box for prompt response.
7 In order to maintain the warranty on the generator, ship the generator in a manner that will
prevent freezing. Freezing temperatures will cause irreparable damage to the hydrogen cell
assembly.

Figure 5 - Insert the Drain Port

Insert along with a length of
tubing into the Drain Port in Figure 6 - To remove the Drain Port Insert, press down on the
the Front metal clip to release the insert, and pull.

Parker Hannifin Corporation

7 Filtration and Separation Division
Haverhill, MA • 1-800-343-4048
Bulletin H2-500F Parker Balston Model H2-500
Hydrogen Generator

Diagnostics
General The Parker Balston Model H2-500 hydrogen generator has built-in system diagnostics to monitor
the operation of the generator and alert the operator in case of a failure. There is a Power Indica-
tor light on the front panel of the generator to signal the operational status of the system (see
Figure 7).

The Control Circuitry controls the membrane cell current to a safe level and eliminates the pos-
sibility of excessive hydrogen production. If a fault occurs and an indicator is illuminated, follow
the instructions in the Troubleshooting section to clear the fault.

The hydrogen generator has a Bar Graph that is used to check the hydrogen flow (Flow Check)
and the water quality (Water Check) (see Figure 7).

Note: See the Explanation of Symbols section at the back of the manual to match the symbols on
the generator to the descriptions listed below.

Hydrogen Flow Hydrogen Flow Indicator - The Hydrogen Flow Indicator illuminates to indicate the cell is gener-
Indicators ating hydrogen (see Figure 7).

Flow Check Bar Graph - In normal operating mode (the side Mode Button is out), the bar graph
displays the percentage of flow produced by the system (see Figure 7). The Bar Graph feature
displays the flow from High (500cc/min) to Low (less than 5 cc/min).

No Hydrogen Flow Indicator - The No Hydrogen Flow Indicator illuminates when the gen-
erator is no longer producing hydrogen (see Figure 7). An audible alarm will sound once every
60 seconds to alert the user that no hydrogen is being produced.

High Hydrogen Flow Indicator (Mass Leak) - The High Hydrogen Flow Indicator illuminates
when the generator is operating at the maximum flow rate (see Figure 4). During normal opera-
tion the indicator will be illuminated as the generator builds up pressure when you first start the
system or when you are running at or near the maximum capacity of the generator. If the demand
on the unit exceeds capacity then the generator will shut down and the No Hydrogen Flow indi-
cator will illuminate and begin to beep. This may be caused either from a leak in the piping to the
equipment or it may indicate the volume being filled is too large for the generator (see Mass Leak
section). The unit must be reset with the Start button once the leak has been found.

Water Quality Water Check Bar Graph - If the Mode Button is pressed in, the Bar Graph will display the Water
Indicators Check quality (see Figure 7). The Bar Graph indicates the water quality level from High (>5 Meg-
Ohm/cm) to Low. This quality level corresponds to the changes in the current going through the
water.

Change Water Indicator - If the water quality in the reservoir reaches the Low level, the Change
Water Indicator (see Figure 4) will illuminate and the unit will shut down. The water in the unit and
the deionizer bags must be replaced.

Low Water Indicator - If the water level drops too low in the water reservoir, the generator will
stop producing hydrogen. Refill the water bottles to the full line and press Start to begin the flow
of hydrogen.

Parker Hannifin Corporation

8 Filtration and Separation Division
Haverhill, MA • 1-800-343-4048
Bulletin H2-500F Parker Balston Model H2-500
Hydrogen Generator

Figure 7 - Diagnostic BAR GRAPH

Indicators.

PRESSURE
GAUGE

  WATER
 FULL
POWER LEVEL
INDICATOR

 MODE
HYDROGEN

BUTTON
FLOW 
WATER

NO REFILL
HYDROGEN LEVEL
FLOW

Maintenance
General When performing routine maintenance, carefully follow the instructions provided in this
section to avoid injury or damage. Service should be performed by persons familiar with
the service and safety requirements of electromechanical / electrochemical devices.

With proper care and maintenance the hydrogen generator will provide years of trouble-free op-
eration. Only routine service is needed to maintain peak operational conditions.

The primary maintenance tasks required by the hydrogen generator are replacing the deionizer
bags (approximately every 6 months), and refilling the water reservoirs (every 3 days). A summary
of replacement part numbers and recommended service frequency is shown at the end of this
section.

Do not use water, aerosols, or other cleaning agents on the unit. If necessary, the generator
can be wiped down with a clean dry cloth on an as needed basis. Use of any liquid detergent to
clean the generator could present an electrical hazard.

Do not use commercial leak detection fluids on any Lexan® plastic parts in the generator.
These fluids may cause cracking and crazing which leads to part failure. Use a solution of 4-5 ml
of liquid dish soap in one liter of water.

Water Refill Refill the water in the generator whenever the water level reaches the Refill level displayed on the
front panel (see Figure 7). The water supply should last approximately 3 days when the reservoirs
are filled to the Full level (They hold 3 liters approximately of water).

If the Low Water indicator (see Figure 4) should illuminate, the generator will stop producing
hydrogen to safeguard the hydrogen cell from permanent damage. If this happens, close the
shutoff valve. Add water to the generator until the Full level is reached and press the Start switch
to begin generating hydrogen and building pressure after operational pressure is obtained, slowly
open the shutoff valve.

Parker Hannifin Corporation

9 Filtration and Separation Division
Haverhill, MA • 1-800-343-4048
Bulletin H2-500F Parker Balston Model H2-500
Hydrogen Generator

Deionizer Bag The water reservoirs should be rinsed and the deionizer bags replaced every six months, or
Replacement whenever the Change Water light illuminates (see Figure 4). No tools are necessary to change
the deionizer bags.

1 Turn the Power Switch to OFF and make sure the Shutoff Valve is in the OPEN position
(see Figure 4) in order to vent the hydrogen from the generator.
2 Lift the top cover and unscrew the water reservoir caps. Lift the deionizer bag out of the
reservoir along with the cap. Disconnect the deionizer bags from the caps and discard.
3 Inspect the new deionizer bags (P/N 7601132) for holes or tears. (Contact Parker for re-
placement if damaged.) Insert the “T” end into the cap until it secures the bag to the cap (see
Figures 2 and 3). Repeat for second bag.

Change Water 1 Follow instructions for deionizer bag replacement then continue on.
2 Use the drain port insert with the 1/4” tube connected to it to drain the water reservoirs.
There is approximately 3 liters of water in the generator when full. Connect the insert to the
Drain Port located on the front panel behind the gray door (see Figure 4) and drain the unit
(see Figure 5).
3 Remove the drain port insert by pressing down on the metal tab and pulling the fitting out
(see Figure 6). Next refill the reservoirs with deionized water. Repeat steps 2 and 3 several
times.
4 Finally, remove the drain port insert and fill the reservoirs completely with approximately
3 liters of deionized water.
5 Replace the caps with the new deionizer bags attached, being careful to avoid blocking any
of the ports in the generator.

Note: Do not allow the deionizer bags to dry out, they must be immersed in water to perform.

6 Start the generator in the same manner found in the Startup section.

Fuse Replacement Occasionally, the fuses in the hydrogen generator may burn out. The main fuses are located in the
power receptacle on the back side of the generator. The transformer fuses are located just below
the power receptacle. Before servicing the fuses, turn the generator off and disconnect the
power cord from both the power supply and the generator power receptacle.

To access the main fuses, use a small screwdriver to remove the fuse holder located in the back
of the generator and in the power receptacle. Replace with the appropriate fuse and re-assemble.
To access the transformer fuses, use a small screwdriver, press in and rotate one quarter turn, and
remove the fuse. Replace with the appropriate fuse and reassemble.

To maintain the safety and performance integrity of the product, use only the fuse of the size
and type detailed in the Specifications, Parts, and Accessories sections of this bulletin.

Description P/N Frequency

Replacement
Parts Replacement Deionizer Bags 7601132 6 Months
Replacement Main Fuse (100V or 120V) A03-0066 As Needed
Replacement Main Fuse (220V) 13216 As Needed
Replacement Transformer Fuse (all voltages) B02-0203 As Needed

Note: To ensure consistent product performance and reliability use only genuine Balston
replacement parts and filter cartridges.

Parker Hannifin Corporation

10 Filtration and Separation Division
Haverhill, MA • 1-800-343-4048
Bulletin H2-500F Parker Balston Model H2-500
Hydrogen Generator

System
Hydrogen Purity (1) 99.99999%
Specifications
CSA Safety Standard CAN/CSA 22.2 No. 1010.1- 92
IEC 1010 Safety Standard IEC1010-1:1990+A1 1992+A2:1995/EN61010-1:1993
IEC 1010 Installation Category II, Pollution Degree 2
UL Safety Standard UL 3101-1, First Edition
EMC Compliance CISPR11:1190/EN55011:1991/EN50082-1:1997/ EN61326-1 (1997)
Maximum Flow Rate (@100 psig/7 barg) 500cc/min.
Outlet Pressure 0-90 psig (0-6.12 barg)
Hydrogen Outlet Port 1/8” Compression
Hydrogen Bleed Port 1/4” Compression
Hydrogen Relief Port 1/4” Female NPT
Water Requirements Deionized Water (ž5 Meg-Ohm/cm)
Maximum Ambient Relative Humidity 80% (Indoor Use Only)
Min/Max Ambient Temperature 60/90°F (16/32°C)
Electrical Requirements (2) 100-120/200-240 VAC, 47-63 Hz
Power Consumption 650 Watts@ 120 VAC / 575 Watts @ 220 VAC
Main Fuse 100 VAC, 120 VAC 6.3 Amp SB 5x20 GDC
Main Fuse 220 VAC 3.15 Amp SB 5x20 GDC
Transformer Fuse (all voltages) 0.63 Amp SB 5x20 GDC
Product Dimensions 13”h x 15”w x 18”d (33cm x 38cm x 43cm)
Product Weight/Shipping Weight 45 lbs./51 lbs. (20 kg / 23 kg)

Optional Description P/N

Accessories
HydroGen™ Mate 72-230

Notes: VAC and 250 VAC and 47-63 Hz.

1 The purity of the hydrogen gas produced
by the Parker Balston Hydrogen Generator is
99.99999+% with respect to oxygen.
2 Main power supply must be between 95

Don’t Forget To: 1 To activate your warranty go to www.labgasgenerators.com/warrantyregistrations.

2 Keep your product certification in a safe place.
3 Call the Technical Services Department at 800-343-4048, 8AM to 5PM Eastern Time with
any questions (North America only). Send email to: [email protected].
For other locations, please contact your local representative.

Serial Numbers The serial number for the unit is located on the back of the unit. For your own records, and in case
service is required, please record the following:

DATE IN SERVICE SERIAL NO.

Please have the serial number available when calling for assistance.

Parker Hannifin Corporation

11 Filtration and Separation Division
Haverhill, MA • 1-800-343-4048
Bulletin H2-500F Parker Balston Model H2-500
Hydrogen Generator

Troubleshooting All troubleshooting activities should be performed by suitable personnel using rea-
sonable care.

Warning: Any troubleshooting or service activity which requires removal of the gen-
erator cover should be done using extreme caution. Exposed AC may be present.

Symptom Course of Action

No Power Check power source and connections to the power source.

Check terminal connections and power cord.
Check power source fuses.
Check generator fuses.

Refill Water Indicator Light Completely fill water reservoir with deionized water and press the Start button on the front panel.
Illuminated Water reservoir ports are blocked by the deionizer bags or other debris. Remove obstruction.
Consult Factory if light does not go off. (1)

Change Water Indicator Light Water Quality is bad, see Maintenance section for draining and rinsing procedure.
Illuminated
Low Output Pressure Hydrogen demand exceeds generator capacity. Check capacity of equipment and piping downstream and install a flow control
device.
Check external system piping for leaks.
Check internal system piping for leaks.

High Hydrogen Flow Indicator Light Flow is at or near maximum rating of 500 cc/min.
Illuminated On start up, light is illuminated as the cell is working at full capacity.
Unit still running In both cases there is no problem unless unit shuts down, if that occurs then see the next listing for instructions.

High Hydrogen Flow Indicator Light Mass Leak detected in system. Check external piping for leaks.
Illuminated Hydrogen demand exceeds generator capacity. Check capacity of equipment and piping downstream and install a flow control
device.
Unit shuts down Check internal system for piping leaks.

No Hydrogen Delivered Check power connections (see above).

Check water level. Generator will shut down if water level is below the Low Level.
Shutoff valve is closed; open Shutoff valve.
Attempted to start generator before purifier reached working temperatures.
Check piping for leaks.
Consult factory.(1)

Moisture at Bleed Outlet Bad purifier or heater. Consult factory. (1)

Back pressure in the purifier bleed outlet tubing; check the angle of the bleed outlet - make sure it angles downward.
Make sure bleed outlet is venting properly.

Notes
1 To arrange for system service, contact the Technical Services Department at 800-343-4048, 8AM to 5PM Eastern Time.
For other locations, please contact your local representative. Send email to: [email protected].

Warranty (NORTH AMERICA ONLY)

(FOR INFORMATION CONTACT YOUR LOCAL REPRESENTATIVE)
Parker Hannifin guarantees to the original purchaser of this product, that if the product fails or is defective within
12 months from the date of purchase, when this product is operated and maintained according to the instructions
provided with the product, then Parker guarantees, at Parker’s option, to replace the product, repair the product,
or refund the original price for the product. This warranty applies only to defects in material or workmanship
and does not cover: ring and valve wear on compressors, routine maintenance recommended by the instruc-
tions provided with this product, or filter cartridges. Any modification of the product without written approval
from Parker will result in voiding this warranty. Complete details of the warranty are available on request. This
warranty applies to units purchased and operated in North America.

Parker Hannifin Corporation

12 Filtration and Separation Division
Haverhill, MA • 1-800-343-4048
Bulletin H2-500F Parker Balston Model H2-500
Hydrogen Generator
Explanation of Symbols
The symbols listed below are found on the front panel of the Hydrogen Generator.
Symbol Description

POWER INDICATOR

HYDROGEN FLOW INDICATOR

NO HYDROGEN FLOW INDICATOR

MAXIMUM HYDROGEN FLOW or

EXCESSIVE FLOW RATE INDICATOR (MASS LEAK)

CHANGE WATER INDICATOR

LOW WATER INDICATOR

HYDROGEN FLOW START BUTTON

FULL WATER TANK INDICATOR

REFILL WATER TANK INDICATOR

WATER DRAIN PORT

Parker Hannifin Corporation
13 Filtration and Separation Division
Haverhill, MA • 1-800-343-4048
Bulletin H2-500F Parker Balston Model H2-500
Hydrogen Generator

Explanation of Warning Symbols

Symbol Description

Caution, refer to accompanying

documents for explanation.

3
Refer to the caution/warning note
indicated for explanation.

Caution, risk of electric shock.

Parker Hannifin Corporation Parker Hannifin (UK) Ltd

Filtration and Separation Division Industrial Division
242 Neck Road Suite 42, Kent House, Romney Place
Haverhill, MA 01835 Maidstone, Kent ME15 6LH United Kingdom
Tel: 978-858-0505 Fax: 978-556-7501 Tel: +44 (0)1622 772440 Fax: +44 (0)1622 772446
www.labgasgenerators.com www.parker.com\pag

Parker Hannifin Corporation

14 Filtration and Separation Division
©Parker Hannifin Corporation 2001, 2008
Haverhill,Printed
MA in• U.S.A.
1-800-343-4048
Bulletin TI-H2-500F