Element Hitchin introduces an ISO 4080-compliant facility dedicated to testing reinforced thermoplastic and thermoset pipes. This innovative service offers safer, more efficient, and cost-effective hydrogen transport solutions, overcoming the common pitfalls of steel pipes.
What is Hydrogen Pipeline Testing?
Hydrogen Pipeline Testing leverages advanced material science and engineering to evaluate the suitability of non-metallic pipes for hydrogen transport, adhering to ISO 4080 standards. At Element Hitchin, our facility specializes in testing reinforced thermoplastic (RTP), thermoplastic composite (TCP), and glass-reinforced epoxy (GRE) pipes. These tests ensure the pipes’ durability and overall integrity under high-pressure and temperature conditions. This service aims to replace traditional steel pipes, offering a safer, more cost-effective, and durable alternative for transporting hydrogen, thereby eliminating common issues like hydrogen-induced cracking (HIC).
Benefits of Hydrogen Pipeline Testing Services with Element
- Enhanced Safety: Eliminates the risk of hydrogen-induced cracking (HIC) common in steel pipes, ensuring safer hydrogen transport.
- Cost Efficiency: Lightweight materials lead to lower handling, transportation, and installation costs compared to traditional steel options.
- ISO 4080 Compliance: Utilizes ISO 4080 standards, specifically adapted for high-pressure hydrogen environments, to guarantee precision and reliability.
- Multilayer Pipe Design: Features innovative multilayer designs that minimize hydrogen leakage and maximize durability.
- Simultaneous Testing Capability: Can test multiple pipe lengths simultaneously, optimizing efficiency and throughput in evaluations.
- Temperature and Pressure Adaptability: Accommodates hydrogen pressures up to 103 bar and temperatures up to 55°C, suitable for a variety of operational conditions.
- Long-Term Testing: Offers extended testing periods from several days to months, providing thorough assessments of long-term performance and integrity.
Hydrogen-Induced Cracking in Steel Pipes
Traditional steel pipes used for hydrogen transport are prone to hydrogen-induced cracking (HIC), compromising structural integrity and posing serious safety risks. Our ISO 4080-compliant Hydrogen Pipeline Testing Service addresses this issue by rigorously testing non-metallic pipes such as reinforced thermoplastic (RTP) and glass-reinforced epoxy (GRE), which are inherently resistant to HIC. By adhering to ISO 4080 standards, we ensure that these pipelines maintain their integrity under high hydrogen pressures, providing safer and more reliable solutions for hydrogen transport.
High Costs and Logistical Challenges of Steel Pipes
The weight and rigidity of steel pipes lead to high transportation and installation costs, complicating logistics and elevating the overall expense of pipeline projects. By testing lightweight, flexible pipes in compliance with ISO 4080 standards, our service significantly reduces transport and installation costs. The all-polymer construction of RTP, TCP, and GRE pipes allows for manufacturing long continuous lengths that are easier to handle and cheaper to ship. These pipes maintain high performance at a lower cost, offering a cost-effective alternative that simplifies logistics without compromising quality or safety, thereby achieving operational efficiencies and cost savings for our clients.
Services & Capabilities
- High-Pressure Hydrogen Testing: Tests can accommodate hydrogen pressures up to 103 bar, ideal for rigorous industry applications.
- Temperature Control: Capable of testing environments up to 55°C to simulate extreme operational conditions.
- Multilayer Pipe Testing: Specializes in testing multilayer thermoplastic and glass-reinforced epoxy pipes, focusing on minimizing hydrogen leakage and enhancing durability.
- Simultaneous Pipe Testing: Ability to test up to three individual pipe lengths simultaneously for increased efficiency.
- Leak Integrity Testing: Comprehensive examination of pipe joints and end fittings to ensure they are leak-proof and fit for purpose.
- ISO 4080 Compliance: Adheres strictly to ISO 4080 standards adapted specifically for high-pressure hydrogen applications, providing credible and reliable results.
- Extended Duration Testing: Offers long-term testing capabilities ranging from several days to months to assess long-term performance and durability.
- Custom Testing Protocols: Develops tailored testing procedures based on client specifications and industry needs.
ISO 4080 Testing
Specially adapted for our high-pressure hydrogen applications, ISO 4080 governs our testing protocols, ensuring comprehensive evaluation of pipe integrity and performance under varied conditions. By adhering to this international standard, we provide results that meet the highest industry benchmarks for safety and efficiency in hydrogen pipeline testing.
Why Choose Element?
Choose Element for unparalleled expertise and state-of-the-art facilities in ISO 4080-compliant hydrogen pipeline testing. Our commitment to innovation and reliability in testing non-metallic pipes positions us as industry leaders. By adhering strictly to ISO 4080 standards, we ensure that our services not only meet but exceed the rigorous demands of the industry. Our specialized knowledge in thermoplastic and glass-reinforced epoxy pipe testing ensures that your projects achieve maximum safety and efficiency. Partner with us for a relationship that prioritizes cutting-edge, durable solutions in hydrogen transport.
Learn more about Element or contact our expert team today to discuss your project.
Understanding Hydrogen Permeation Testing on Non-Metallic Materials
Hydrogen permeation testing can provide manufacturers with important knowledge such as how much hydrogen is going to pass through a material.
Read MoreRelated Services
Liquid and Gas Permeation Testing for Polymers
Our unique range of permeation testing services determine the permeation coefficient (permeability), diffusion coefficient (diffusivity) and solubility coefficients.
Hydrogen
Element has decades of experience in testing materials and components for their behavior in hydrogen-containing environments.