Hydrogen Delivery via Pipelines
Gaseous hydrogen can be efficiently transported through pipelines, similar to the existing infrastructure for natural gas. In the United States, approximately 1,600 miles of hydrogen pipelines are operational, mainly owned by merchant hydrogen producers. These pipelines are strategically located in regions with high concentrations of major hydrogen users, such as petroleum refineries and chemical plants, particularly in the Gulf Coast.
This method is considered a low-cost option for transporting large volumes of hydrogen, but the high initial capital costs associated with constructing new pipelines pose a significant barrier to expanding the hydrogen pipeline delivery infrastructure. Ongoing research focuses on addressing technical concerns related to hydrogen transmission through pipelines. Key challenges include the potential embrittlement of steel and welds, controlling hydrogen permeation and leaks, and improving the cost-effectiveness, reliability, and durability of hydrogen compression technology.
One potential solution involves the use of fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) pipelines for hydrogen distribution. FRP pipelines offer cost advantages, with installation costs about 20% less than those of steel pipelines. This is attributed to the longer sections of FRP that reduce welding requirements.
To rapidly expand the hydrogen delivery infrastructure, a possible approach is adapting part of the existing natural gas infrastructure for hydrogen transport. Converting natural gas pipelines to carry a blend of natural gas and hydrogen (up to 15% hydrogen) might require modest modifications. However, converting these pipelines to deliver pure hydrogen may necessitate more substantial changes. Ongoing research and analyses are exploring both approaches, aiming to facilitate the efficient and widespread use of hydrogen in existing infrastructure while overcoming technical challenges.
Advantages of Hydrogen Pipeline Transportation:
- Continuous Flow: Pipelines allow for a continuous and steady flow of hydrogen, making it suitable for large-scale distribution.
- Efficiency: Pipeline transportation is energy-efficient compared to other methods, as it doesn’t require frequent starts and stops.
- Reduced Transportation Costs: For large-scale transportation over significant distances, pipelines can offer cost advantages compared to other modes of transport.
- Infrastructure Integration: Over time, as the hydrogen infrastructure develops, pipelines can be integrated into existing natural gas pipelines or dedicated hydrogen pipeline networks.
Challenges and Considerations:
- Material Compatibility: Hydrogen can cause embrittlement in some materials, so pipelines must be constructed from materials compatible with hydrogen.
- Safety: Safety measures must be in place to prevent leaks and ensure the safe transportation of hydrogen through the pipeline network.
- Initial Infrastructure Investment: Building a hydrogen pipeline network requires significant upfront investment, which can be a barrier to entry.