DNV is launching the second phase of H2Pipe, a joint industry project (JIP) aiming to develop a new code for the design, re-qualification, construction and operation of offshore hydrogen pipelines.
Phase 2 will kick off in late March 2023 and is open for more partners to join.
Phase 2 will last two years and will consist of a comprehensive experimental test programme to enhance the understanding of the governing hydrogen embrittlement mechanisms and how hydrogen affects the integrity of the line pipe material.
In addition to the experimental test campaign, Phase 2 will also include tasks such as a feasibility level design of offshore hydrogen pipelines and a risk assessment study to look at safety aspects of offshore hydrogen pipelines.
The primary outcome of Phase 2 of the JIP is expected to be a detailed guideline offering specific guidance for use in design and re-purposing of offshore pipelines for hydrogen transport.
DNV’s Hydrogen Forecast to 2050 anticipates that over 50% of hydrogen pipelines globally (and as much as 80% in some regions) will be repurposed from existing natural gas pipeline networks, as it is expected to cost less than 35% of new builds.
A large-scale deployment of hydrogen transport through pipelines requires the best possible balance between safety and cost-effectiveness, stated DNV.
Industry players are exploring ways of transporting hydrogen as an additive or replacement for natural gas, but offshore pipeline codes insufficiently cover the transport of hydrogen or hydrogen blends by offshore pipelines.
DNV started the first phase of H2Pipe in 2021.
This consisted of an initial test programme looking into potential degradation of steel pipe mechanical properties and was carried out to fill gaps in existing knowledge and to explore various test parameters as a preparation and narrow down the number of variables for the main test programme planned for Phase 2.
The first revision of the guideline was delivered to participants the same year.
The guideline is at a high level and more work is needed to develop more specific acceptance criteria.
Prajeev Rasiah (pictured), Regional Director, Northern Europe, Energy Systems, DNV, said: “DNV is committed to the energy transition and plays an active role in supporting its customers removing risks around the implementation of clean energy solutions like hydrogen.
“We invest in initiatives such as the FutureGrid Project at our Spadeadam Test Facility in the UK, for the purpose of understanding how a gas transmission network will need to be developed and operated, to deliver sufficient quantities of hydrogen safely.
“This JIP for offshore pipelines is another contribution in the move to decarbonize the energy system, and to ensure an efficient and safe hydrogen infrastructure.”