Qualification for the use of hydrogen
“Is my product H2-Ready?” – a question that currently concerns many manufacturing companies. The change to using hydrogen as a green energy source is progressing rapidly and, in addition to promising opportunities, there are also risks. We support our customers in realistically assessing these opportunities by identifying and minimizing the risks that may arise when using their products or systems in conjunction with hydrogen.
The material you use is qualified as H2-Ready using an individually tailored evaluation plan. We have access to the most modern testing technology with which the material can be tested directly under hydrogen conditions.
Security during use through standardization expertise
We are actively involved in the current adaptation of relevant standards at national and European levels, so that this current state of knowledge also flows into our projects. In conjunction with our team’s decades of experience, we determine whether your material is H2-Ready and what general conditions must be met for its use. We also represent our results to your certifier and/or customer if this is necessary and/or desired.
With our Solutions Engineering approach, which, in addition to know-how, includes internal and external communication as an essential element, we can respond to individual requirements and thus determine your most important criteria Problem statement as the basis for the solution.
Procedure
Phase 1: Analysis level
- Recording of the initial situation with regard to the materials to be qualified and associated regulations
- Planning of the effort to achieve the qualification goal
Phase 2: Work level
- Development and application of our qualification concept based on applicable standards and guidelines and current findings.
- Derivation and implementation of measures for future qualification
Phase 3: Certification Level
- Providing proof of conformity between material, requirements and measures.
- Implementation during ongoing operations
H2 Fracture mechanics
Material characteristics under the influence of hydrogen
With the help of fracture mechanics, the dangers posed by cracks and crack growth can be analyzed and the complex, temporal interaction of various stress factors can be recorded. This brings the crucial aspect of avoiding unstable crack growth into focus and solutions can be delivered at short notice.
Fracture surfaces of KI,H samples after 1000 hours of loading under pressurized hydrogen AI,H
Particularly when materials are used in hydrogen media, unstable crack growth and brittle failure are a real danger due to hydrogen embrittlement. This potential danger can be evaluated and limited by fracture mechanics tests in hydrogen. For the qualification of materials and welded joints as “H2-qualified”, it is also possible to sensibly limit fracture mechanics tests according to the international state of the art (e.g. ASME B31.12). As with other high-safety applications such as nuclear technology or offshore oil and gas or pressure equipment, the fracture mechanics of hydrogen make an important contribution to safe operation and the avoidance of long downtimes.
Fracture mechanics tests in a hydrogen environment
There are currently two standardized test types for fracture mechanics tests in a hydrogen environment:
- The conventional test setup with CT or SENB sample in which the fracture toughness is determined according to ASTM E 1820 or a crack progression curve according to ASTEM E 648.
- The KI,H test according to ASTM E 1681-03, in which a special fracture mechanics sample is placed under constant prestress and then stored in an autoclave for a predefined time in a pressurized hydrogen atmosphere. This test is also currently required by ASME B31.13 Option B.
Damage analysis according to VDI guideline 3822
A procedure according to VDI guideline 3822 is also used for damage analyzes under the influence of hydrogen.
The description of the damage and the inventory play a major role.
What is particularly important to us in our approach is not only to determine the cause of the damage, but also to be able to show options for remedial action.
With the help of partner laboratories, all modern analysis methods are available to us.
Hydrogen damage analysis
Damage caused by the influence of hydrogen
Damage can usually be avoided through appropriate design of the component and operating conditions. However, if general conditions change or materials are to be used for which it is unclear whether they suit the intended purpose, we can help to re-assess the component and operational safety.
However, if damage has already occurred, we as IWT-Solutions AG will help to find the cause and take measures to prevent lasting, cost-intensive consequences.
SEM images of an intergranular fracture with signs of hydrogen exposure
This also applies to use in a hydrogen environment, where complete material failure can quickly lead to enormous infrastructure damage.
When analyzing, we base our analysis on the VDI guideline 3822 and its adaptation to hydrogen. With the help of partner laboratories, we have access to all modern analysis methods. Analysis and interpretation are in the hands of our specialists. In cases of dispute, in court or out of court, we offer qualified support.