[ sealing ]
Ensuring safe hydrogen transport: solving seal integrity challenges
For safe hydrogen transport, custom engineered sealing solutions are often relied upon for their high performance under extreme operation conditions. Both advanced polymer seals and metal sealing solutions withstand cryogenic temperatures, high temperatures, and high pressures. One major challenge is hydrogen containment, which is solved using specialized materials and precision designs to ensure minimal leakage rate.
By Clara Souève, Digital Content Strategist, Omniseal Solutions
The reliability of transport systems plays a fundamental role in the broader hydrogen value chain as the integrity of these sealing systems directly impacts sustainability goals and overall system efficiency. By minimizing energy losses during transportation and ensuring secure delivery, advanced transport infrastructure contributes significantly to hydrogen’ s viability as a clean energy solution. This article explores various hydrogen transport applications and their stringent requirements based on environmental and operational conditions.
Sealing conditions in various H 2 transportation methods
Hydrogen transportation consists of gaseous hydrogen via pipelines and compressed gas trailers, as well as liquid hydrogen through cryogenic tankers, with maritime shipping emerging for international trade. Each transport method presents unique challenges, requiring containment systems that maintain integrity under varying operational and extreme conditions.
Pipeline transport The use of existing natural gas pipelines for hydrogen transport – whether through blending hydrogen with natural gas or through dedicated hydrogen pipelines – presents various technical challenges, particularly concerning material compatibility and sealing performance. These pipelines, originally designed for natural gas, must be adapted to handle the unique properties
Hydrogen Tech World | Issue 21 | April 2025 55