In the last few years, there has been a rapid increase in conversations about the use(s) of Hydrogen, and its role as a key fuel of the future. Hydrogen is a key part of the global transition towards more sustainable energy and a significant reduction in carbon emissions that many countries across the globe have committed to. There is now a rapidly emerging “Hydrogen Economy” which will have a huge impact on power generation, and the industries that rely on burning gas within their manufacturing processes.
Hydrogen is the most abundant element on the planet, and when burned produces only water, with no Carbon Dioxide or Carbon Monoxide. However, there is potential for some oxides of Nitrogen to be produced which can contribute to air pollution. Hydrogen production and storage also creates the opportunity to convert excess energy from renewable sources such as wind turbines, effectively balancing the supply and demand in the power grid which unlocks the full potential of renewable energy infrastructure.
Hydrogen can be produced in a verity of ways, of which the most environmentally friendly is electrolysis of water, using renewable electricity sources such as wind or solar power. This approach to produce and use Hydrogen is a zero emissions process from start to finish. Once produced, the Hydrogen can be supplied in a wide variety of sizes using cylinders or trailers.
Both British and European standards have been created for the safe storage and handling of Hydrogen, and there are specific standards for the safety of Hydrogen systems and Hydrogen pipeline systems.
In addition to its cleanliness, Hydrogen has many other key differences to typical hydrocarbon gases and vapours, which can have an impact on switching to Hydrogen.
- Hydrogen leaks more easily
- Permeation through materials – faster than for Hydrocarbons c. 8 times that of methane
- Permeation through pipe walls is usually very small amounts, which would not be an issue unless the gas can accumulate
- Flow through physical holes
- It has a very wide flammable range. A small amount of air added into Hydrogen forms a flammable atmosphere.
- Hydrogen burns much more quickly.
- It also detonates more readily.
- Hydrogen flames can pass through smaller gaps. It is therefore less likely to quench itself, so higher specification flame proof equipment will be needed.
- Hydrogen is easier to ignite than Methane, Ethane, Propane and Butane, and is sensitive to sparks.
- Hydrogen is lighter, making it more buoyant. Coupled with the increased rate of leaks, Hydrogen’s tendency to rise in open air can cause an accumulation at a high level in a building.
- The properties of construction materials can be affected by Hydrogen.
- Less air is required for combustion of hydrogen, so a different fuel : air ratio may be required for process purposes.
At Fairburn, we are embracing the introduction of Hydrogen by our clients. Craig, Sean and Sam recently completed a residential Hydrogen training course organised by the HSE, where they became better acquainted with the properties, behaviour, hazards, safety regulations and design implications of liquid and gaseous Hydrogen.
Already, two of our clients in the ceramics industry are initiating trial projects to test the switch from natural gas to Hydrogen and we are delighted that they have chosen Fairburn Heating Solutions to help them.
Craig Carr, Managing Director of Fairburn Heating Solutions said “It is clear that we will see significant switching from natural gas to Hydrogen in the near future as more industries seek to reduce their carbon emissions in line with government commitments. We are delighted that our team of gas engineers are ready and able to support those companies that wish to make that move.”
If your company is looking for help to make the switch to Hydrogen, you can call us on 01886 358025, send an email to totalsolutions@fairburnhs.com or use the contact form on our website.
You can find out more about Hydrogen at the Hydrogen UK website
