As more Canadian citizens and industries consider a more sustainable future, hydrogen fuel is becoming a popular alternative to traditional natural gas. While natural gas has long been a reliable energy source, hydrogen’s clean energy potential to reduce carbon emissions makes it a more attractive option for many industries as hydrogen delivery systems become more robust.
But what changes should facilities currently using natural gas check valves and other fittings anticipate if they’re contemplating switching to hydrogen? Understanding the key differences between hydrogen and natural gas fuels and the critical differences in their delivery and containment systems is crucial for making safe, informed decisions about future fueling.
Comparing Check Valves and Fittings: Natural Gas vs. Hydrogen
Transitioning from natural gas to hydrogen fueling systems involves more than just a switch in your energy source- it requires rethinking your entire fuel containment and delivery system, including components like check valves, tubing, fittings, and other vital system elements. Some of the key differences that should be considered include:
1. Material Compatibility
- Natural Gas Check Valves: Natural gas is non-corrosive, allowing for a broader range of materials to be used in parts and fittings fabrication, such as brass or certain grades of stainless steel. These materials are commonly used in extracting, refining, and delivering natural gas due to their durability and cost-effectiveness.
- Hydrogen Check Valves: Hydrogen is a smaller, more reactive molecule that requires high-resistance materials like specialized stainless steel alloys or nickel-based materials to avoid embrittlement or corrosion of parts and fittings. Using incompatible or cut-rate materials can lead to leaks or component failure, a two-fold costly mistake.
2. Seal Design
- Natural Gas Systems: Seals in natural gas fittings are typically made from inert, stable materials like nitrile rubber, which performs well under the pressures and temperatures of natural gas systems. These seals are cheap and easy to source or manufacture.
- Hydrogen Systems: Hydrogen systems demand seals made from materials like PTFE (polytetrafluoroethylene) or other advanced polymers to handle higher pressures and prevent permeation. Even slight imperfections in sealing can lead to hazardous leaks.
3. Pressure Ratings
- Natural Gas Applications: The standardized pressure ratings for natural gas systems are typically lower, as the gas is delivered at a more moderate, even pressure flow.
- Hydrogen Applications: Hydrogen is often stored and transported at extremely high pressures—often exceeding 700 bar for fueling applications. Check valves and fittings must be designed to withstand these intense levels without compromising performance.
4. Leak Prevention Standards
- Natural Gas Systems: Natural gas systems have strict leak prevention standards, but the risk is generally mitigated through long-established technologies and materials.
- Hydrogen Systems: Hydrogen’s small molecular size makes leak prevention more challenging. Components must meet stringent standards for hydrogen compatibility, such as ISO 19880-3 or ASME B31.12, which HyLok’s hydrogen-compatible fittings meet.
5. Cost and Maintenance
- Natural Gas Systems: Servicing and maintaining natural gas check valves is relatively straightforward, with readily available parts and servicing expertise available from most suppliers or manufacturers. Their upfront costs are often lower to secure as well.
- Hydrogen Systems: Hydrogen components are typically more expensive upfront due to the advanced materials and precision engineering required. Maintenance also requires specialized knowledge and tools, as hydrogen systemsare less forgiving of wear and tear.
Preparing for a Transition From Natural Gas to Hydrogen
If your industry or facility is considering a switch from natural gas to hydrogen fueling, it’s vital to understand the specific demands of hydrogen-compatible systems. From selecting the right metallurgic materials for the fittings to ensuring compliance with safety standards tied to the tubing and seals, a large-scale transition from natural gas to hydrogen requires careful planning and expert advice.
At HyLok Canada, we’re committed to helping our partners in industries worldwide make the shift to sustainable fuels seamlessly. Our team of industry-leading experts can help you select and source the ideal fittings for your application, whether upgrading existing systems or building entirely new ones. We’re not just a fittings and parts supplier; we’re your partner in making the world a cleaner, better place, one facility at a time.
Trust HyLok for Your Fitting Needs As Your Business Transitions From Natural Gas to Hydrogen Fueling
Whether your facility ultimately decides to stay with natural gas or wants to explore hydrogen as a future-friendly alternative, HyLok has the expertise and products needed to keep your systems operating safely and efficiently. Visit our website or contact us today to learn more about our wide range of check valves, fittings, and other accessories tailored to the demands of your natural gas or hydrogen applications.
