Safety Valves for Hydrogen Applications

Ensuring Safe Handling of a Promising Energy Source

Hydrogen is increasingly recognized as a crucial element in the transition to a sustainable energy future. Its potential for vehicle propulsion, electricity generation and energy storage are attracting a great deal of attention; however, as with any energy source, appropriate safety measures must be taken in order to reduce the risks inherent in the use of this substance. Safety valves play a key role in order to ensure the safe handling of hydrogen in various applications, safeguarding the safety of people and facilities.

Hydrogen use imposes new safety challenges

The use of hydrogen implies the need for specific safety considerations. Hydrogen has several unique properties that require specific safety considerations. First, it is a highly flammable gas, which, even at low concentrations in the air, can ignite easily, resulting in very dangerous situations. In addition, hydrogen can make metals brittle, including those commonly used in equipment and pipelines, increasing the risk of leakage and structural failure. These characteristics therefore make it necessary for the use of this element to implement appropriate safety measures.

The role of safety valves

Safety valves are mechanical devices designed to relieve excess pressure within a system, preventing equipment damage and catastrophic damage. In hydrogen applications, safety valves perform crucial functions to ensure safe operations.

Safety valves keep pressure within established limits by venting excess hydrogen gas; they are able to open at a certain pressure threshold, allowing hydrogen to be released and preventing pressure buildup beyond the design allowable limit.

Sudden pressure spikes (caused by malfunctions or other causes) can occur in systems, posing the risk of system failure. Pressure relief valves act as a safety mechanism, instantly discharging excessive pressure to protect the equipment from damage.

Design considerations for hydrogen safety valves.

When it comes to hydrogen applications, the design of safety valves requires special attention to certain features.

Material compatibility: given the propensity of hydrogen to embrittlement of metals, safety valves must be made of materials resistant to cracking induced by this element. Stainless steel and some alloys, such as nickel-based ones, are commonly used in order to avert the above problems.

Sealing and leak prevention: because of its lightness, hydrogen requires special care of seals, great care must therefore be taken in the selection of seals and the conduct of tests aimed at verifying the degree of tightness of safety valves intended to be operated with this fluid.