Are there generic best practices for connecting hydrogen cylinders to research equipment? The project in question uses single H2 cylinders outside of a gas cylinder cabinet. When and where should an excess flow control valve be installed? When and where should a flash arrestor be installed? Are there specific things to look out for when a hydrogen and oxygen or oxidizer cylinder (i.e., nitrous oxide) are on the same system? What kind of cross connections should be avoided? When and where should there be a check valve installed? Can quick connects be used on hydrogen tubing? Are there specific pressure regulators to select or avoid with hydrogen? When and where should purge valves be installed? What are the recommended valve and regulator components of a H2/O2 torch assembly?
It is difficult to provide trustworthy answers to these questions without understanding the design and configuration of the specific installation. It may be best to consult with a pressure systems expert to evaluate the specific installation and uses. The gas provider may also be a good resource for specifics on gas equipment use. Other beneficial resources include the HSP Best Practices online resource and the DOE Hydrogen Safety Training for Researchers, the AIChE Laboratory Safety Course.
NFPA 2, Hydrogen Technologies Code, and NFPA 45, Standard on Fire Protection for Laboratories Using Chemicals, may also be helpful in identifying requirements and best practices. In addition, the project designed should consult with the local authority having jurisdiction for safety guidance that is applicable to locally adopted codes.