Research

Full-scale testing of fracture initiation in hydrogen service is an essential requirement to determining the safe operating window for high-pressure steel pipelines in hydrogen service.This project reviewed options for conducting full-scale fracture initiation tests of steel pipes in hydrogen environment, and provides a project execution plan for subsequent project phase(s). Two options have been investigated: (1) conducting testing overseas (e.g. CSM-RINA, Italy; DNVGL, Spadeadam, UK; etc.), where facilities already exist, and (2) creating a test facility in Australia. The project is expected to be completed in two consequent phases of front-end engineering design (FEED),cost estimation and execution.

The project resulted in scoping and planning for a full-scale fracture initiation testing program for steel pipes in hydrogen environment. The final phase of this program will result in validated fracture initiation models for gas pipelines industry to be used for safe repurposing of infrastructure for hydrogen injection.

Dr Jeremy Harris

Research Manager

jeremy.harris@futurefuelscrc.com