Hydrogen Powered Future
Hydrogen is expected to play a major role in the quest for decarbonisation to reach net zero.
Special considerations are required for the construction/re-purposing and operation of hydrogen piping systems due to its potential to cause embrittlement in certain materials. As hydrogen atoms are absorbed and diffused within pipeline steel, they can affect the material's fatigue and fracture resistance properties, which in turn renders pipeline steels more susceptible to cracking.
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Our experts have in-depth knowledge of the requirements of ASME B31.12 and IGEM/TD/13 to ensure code compliance and the integrity of hydrogen systems.
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Pipeline Repurposing
One of the significant challenges in building a hydrogen economy is the development of a robust infrastructure for hydrogen transport. Repurposing existing natural gas pipelines for hydrogen transportation presents a cost-effective and efficient solution. However, ensuring the structural integrity and reliability of these pipelines under new operating conditions is paramount. Structural Reliability Analysis (SRA) provides a robust framework to assess and mitigate risks associated with pipeline repurposing.
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SRA is a probabilistic approach used to evaluate the safety and performance of structures under uncertain conditions. It involves the quantification of uncertainties in material properties, loading conditions, and environmental factors, enabling the prediction of failure probabilities and the identification of critical factors affecting structural integrity.
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Key Components of SRA include:
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Identification of potential failure causes.​
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Identification of limit state to determine the boundary between safe and failure states.
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Reliability Index and Probability of Failure: The reliability index, β, is a measure of the safety margin of a structure, often related to the probability of failure (Pf). Higher reliability indices correspond to lower probabilities of failure. Methods such as the First-Order Reliability Method (FORM) and the Second-Order Reliability Method (SORM) are used to calculate these indices.​
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Simulation Techniques: Monte Carlo Simulation and other advanced numerical methods are employed to estimate the probability of failure by simulating a large number of scenarios.