HHO: A NEW ENERGETIC OPTION

The search for more economical, clean, and efficient energy alternatives has been one of the major industrial and environmental agendas of this century. Among the emerging options, HHO gas, a mixture of hydrogen and oxygen generated through water electrolysis, stands out as a promising solution. With the potential to replace traditional fuels such as LPG and diesel oil, HHO is increasingly attracting attention due to its unique characteristics and economic benefits.

HHO: A NEW ENERGETIC OPTION

Flávio José Berghmann Guedes is the Technical Director of FG Consultoria. He is a Mechanical Engineer, holds a postgraduate degree in Environmental Management from the Federal University of São Carlos, and has specialized in Industrial Ventilation and Combustion at the Institute of Research and Technology of the State of São Paulo.

He has 34 years of experience in primary and secondary metallurgy, lead refining and its alloys, cassiterite smelting and cast iron in a rotary furnace and extensive experience in thermal adaptation projects in rotary furnaces, crucible furnaces and burners.

The search for more economical, clean, and efficient energy alternatives has been one of the major industrial and environmental agendas of this century. Among the emerging options,

HHO gas, a mixture of hydrogen and oxygen generated through water electrolysis, stands out as a promising solution. With the potential to replace traditional fuels such as LPG and diesel

oil, HHO is increasingly attracting attention due to its unique characteristics and economic benefits.

THE HHO HISTORY

Although it may seem like a futuristic idea, the technology behind HHO is not new. The principles of electrolysis were discovered in the late 18th century, and since then, the concept of splitting water into its basic elements—hydrogen and oxygen—has intrigued scientists and inventors. It was in the 20th century that HHO, also known as Brown’s gas, began to be practically applied in areas such as cutting and welding. Recently, with advancements in electronic systems and energy efficiency, HHO has gained traction as an alternative energy source to replace fossil fuels. Its appeal lies in the fact that its production uses water as a raw material, and its combustion produces no toxic emissions, only water vapor.

Each kilogram of HHO is approximately equivalent to 3 kilograms of LPG.

In our research, the energy consumption to produce 1 kg of HHO ranged between 5 to 6 kWh, a highly competitive figure considering its calorific value, which in practice reaches around 40,000 kcal/kg.

In terms of energy substitution, each kilogram of HHO is approximately equivalent to 3 kilograms of LPG. This result paves the way for significant savings, especially in industrial sectors that consume large volumes of fuels such as LPG and diesel oil. However, as the old Brazilian popular saying goes, “sugarcane is sweet, but is not soft”.

                                                

Picture 1: experimental flame

THE HHO CHALLENGES

Despite its advantages, there are still challenges that need to be overcome for HHO to become a widely adopted solution.

1. Electronic System Balance:

The constant and efficient production of HHO requires a well-tuned and stable electronic system. Any variation in current or voltage can compromise gas generation, reducing its efficiency.

2. Electrolyte Solution Stability:

The water used in the electrolysis process must contain electrolytes to conduct electric current. Maintaining this solution balanced and free of contaminants is difficult yet essential to avoid issues in the system.

3. Periodic Maintenance:

Like any technology, the HHO generation system requires regular care. The electrodes, for example, must be frequently inspected to prevent corrosion and buildup of residues, which can affect efficiency and damage the system.

4. Safety First:

Here, dear readers, it is important to exercise extra caution. We are talking about a fuel (hydrogen) and an oxidizer (oxygen) mixture in the same environment. If something goes wrong, the outcome will not just be a scare – it will be a BANG! Robust safety systems are essential to prevent incidents.

PERSPECTIVES AND ECONOMIC IMPACTS 

By replacing traditional fossil fuels, HHO not only reduces costs but also contributes to a more sustainable future. For industrial sectors that rely on intense heat, such as foundries and refineries, the use of HHO can lead to energy consumption savings of up to 50%, in addition to reducing carbon emissions.

Although the technology is still in the adjustment phase, the projections are promising. If the technical challenges are overcome, HHO could be a viable energy alternative.

                                                                                                          

Picture 2: experimental flame

Now, it is a matter of time and effort to transform the potential of this technology into another interesting energy option.

HHO AND FG CONSULTORIA

HHO represents more than just an energy alternative; it symbolizes the capacity for innovation and the pursuit of smarter solutions to actual challenges. Like any technological advancement, it is essential to face obstacles and learn from each stage.

In this promising landscape, FG Consulting positions itself as a developer of solutions focused on this technology. Currently, we are working on the development of our own HHO generator, aiming to offer high-performance equipment and customized projects to our clients. This first project is being developed for small foundry kettles.

Our commitment is to ensure that these solutions not only meet our clients’ energy demands but also contribute to sustainability and the reduction of operational costs.

The photos show the flame produced by our HHO generator under development: a flame with a visible main plume of 150mm, a total visible and invisible flame length of 400mm, and a flame diameter of 15mm.