Hydrogen Valve Services
The handling of hydrogen requires careful consideration, particularly in valve selection. Material compatibility is of utmost importance, including the selection of sealing components. Hydrogen, with its unique characteristics, demands a nuanced approach to valve selection. Nick Papworth emphasises that while many of our existing products are suitable for hydrogen applications, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Our commitment is to work closely with our clients, offering not just products but comprehensive solutions that align with their specific hydrogen-related challenges.
Our state-of-the-art facilities and deep industry expertise empower us to guide our clients in selecting the right materials and products. Moreover, we pride ourselves on our ability to customise and test valves to precise specifications, ensuring that they meet the rigorous standards and safety protocols associated with hydrogen usage. Hydrogen atoms can induce embrittlement, cracking, and metal fatigue, making the choice of materials and seals a critical factor in preventing hazardous hydrogen leaks. We prioritise the durability and reliability of our valves to meet the challenges posed by hydrogen’s unique characteristics.
Depending on the precise detail of the application we can give you solutions.
- Material selection and recommendations
- Valve design considerations
- Sealing options
- Applications guidance
- Pressure / Temperature implications
- Fugitive Emissions, testing to ISO 15848 (including in-house Helium testing)
- Quality European valves and materials
By staying at the forefront of hydrogen technology and investing in research and development, we ensure that our valves are designed to meet the stringent requirements of hydrogen systems. Our commitment to providing durable and dependable valves enables us to support the safe and successful implementation of hydrogen as a sustainable energy solution.
Whether it’s high-temperature environments, low-pressure scenarios, or any other unique requirement, we have the flexibility and capability to modify our products accordingly. Our goal is to provide hydrogen valve solutions that not only perform optimally but also contribute to the overall safety and efficiency of hydrogen processes.
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Hydrogen Valve Types
AC Valve Alliance offers an extensive selection of valves tailored to meet various hydrogen application requirements. Our Technical Manager, Nick Papworth, leads our dedicated team, we are thrilled to offer a variety of hydrogen valves types. Understanding that hydrogen comes in diverse conditions ranging from high to low temperatures and pressures we recognise the importance of tailoring solutions to specific needs.
Key Considerations For Hydrogen Valves
Material Compatibility
Hydrogen is known to cause embrittlement in certain metals, so it’s vital to select valve materials compatible with hydrogen. Stainless steel, titanium, and high-strength alloys are commonly used due to their resistance to hydrogen embrittlement.
Pressure & Temperature Ratings
Hydrogen systems operate under specific pressure and temperature conditions. It’s crucial to select valves that can withstand the intended range of pressures and temperatures to ensure safe and reliable operation.
Leakage Rates
Hydrogen is a highly flammable gas, and any leakage can pose safety risks. Valves with low leakage rates, such as those meeting stringent industry standards like API 598 or ISO 5208, should be chosen to minimise the risk of leaks.
Valve Actuation
Consider the method of valve actuation required for your hydrogen system. Manual valves may be suitable for smaller systems, while larger systems may require automated or remote-controlled valves for precise control and operational efficiency.
Certifications & Standards
Look for valves that comply with relevant industry standards and certifications, such as ISO, ANSI, ASME, or specific hydrogen-related standards like SAE J2578. These certifications ensure that the valves meet quality and safety requirements.
What Are Hydrogen Valves Used For?
Hydrogen is commonly used in industry for a wide variety of purposes, it is now generally considered to be a key ingredient of our future energy sustainability policy and net zero emissions targets as it omits Sero CO2 into the atmosphere when burnt, unlike fossil fuels.
The development of Hydrogen production processes is one of the major challenges faced by the energy industry today. So-called Blue Hydrogen is currently the most practical solution where CO2 generated during production is either stored (CCS) or reused. Green Hydrogen is the vision for the future where no CO2 is released during the production process.
Hydrogen can be used as an energy source either as a pure gas or blended, in the UK there are plans to inject up to 20% Hydrogen into the natural gas infrastructure saving millions of tonnes of CO2 emissions every year.