Abstract
Valves of multiple types and sizes are being utilized in a natural gas network. The collective experience on valves for natural gas service is extensive. However, the lack of experience and standardization for valves in gaseous hydrogen service is hindering the progression towards a net zero transition. While ISO 19880-3 is available for gaseous hydrogen fuelling stations, it is designed for a much higher frequency use of valves when compared to future gaseous hydrogen pipeline service, therefore it is necessary to establish a standard for gaseous hydrogen pipeline valves, specifically for future hydrogen export pipelines in diameters ranging from 18” to 42”.
Hydrogen embrittlement is a notorious damage mechanism in the oil and gas industry. A common misconception is to expect similar failure behaviour in gaseous hydrogen service as in hydrogen sulphide and other hydrogen charging environments. This is reflected in the valve industry with an excessive approach to the qualification of hydrogen valves. The research and trials show that the future export of gaseous hydrogen will not be nearly as detrimental when compared to hydrogen sulphide. Considering this, material selection, qualification and testing can be done in a flexible manner, effectively reducing the costs and labour in the progress of the hydrogen transition.
