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to generate reproducible reference values .” This approach enabled them to determine a reliable conversion factor between helium and forming gas measurements , aligning with accepted emission classes in existing industry standards . Kruijer and Lechevallier ’ s dedication resulted in a published paper in the ASME PVT journal , clearly explaining their discoveries . This publication has opened the door for forming gas to be widely considered as a safe , economical solution for fugitive emission testing .
The compelling case for forming gas
Despite the industry ’ s seeming slowness to adapt , Kruijer firmly believes the benefits of adopting forming gas as an alternative to helium are too valuable to overlook . The advantages of this switch are multifaceted and compelling : 1 . Cost-effectiveness : Forming gas offers significant savings compared to the increasingly scarce and expensive helium . Lechevallier explains , “ The switch to forming gas testing equipment pays for itself quickly . Based on current prices , the cost savings from just four bottles of helium cover the investment in new forming gas equipment . This rapid return on investment makes it an easy decision for most companies .”
2 . Safety : Forming gas is a safe alternative compared to testing with methane , so it addresses a critical safety issue by minimising technicians ’ exposure to hazardous gases during testing . This aligns perfectly with the industry ’ s paramount concern for worker safety . 3 . Operational efficiency : User friendly leak detection equipment make handling and
Emiel Lechevallier performing validation tests at Ventil test procedures much simpler , which directly lead to efficiency and clarity in test results . The ease of use could lead to more rapid adoption , enhancing overall safety and compliance .
4 . Sustainability : Saving finite resources like helium for important developments like deep cryogenics , medicine and science . This aligns with the industry ’ s growing focus on sustainability : maintaining safe , high-quality practices without depleting critical resources .
5 . Consistency in testing : “ Forming gas provides more stable test results throughout the day ,” Lechevallier explains . “ It disperses quickly , so even if you open a door , the gas doesn ’ t linger or build up in the room . This means you can perform consistent tests all day long . In contrast , when using helium , its tendency to accumulate in the room can skew test results as the day progresses .”
6 . Versatility : The potential applications of forming gas extend beyond fugitive emissions testing . “ We ’ ve been getting questions about using forming gas for other applications ,” Lechevallier notes . “ If you have a seat leakage and want to find out where it ’ s coming from , or if you want detect pinhole leakages in castings , the gas is cheap enough to run extensive tests . It opens up a whole new range of possibilities for valve diagnostics .”
Breaking through resistance
While the benefits of forming gas are clear , Kruijer acknowledges the challenges in achieving widespread adoption in the oil and gas industry . “ We don ’ t seem to pivot quickly enough ,” he notes . This reluctance to change stems from an understandable preoccupation with risk mitigation in an industry where safety is paramount . However , Kruijer ’ s approach to driving change is methodical and persistent . Rather than trying to circumvent established practices , he leverages his hard-earned credibility to open dialogues with key decision-makers . By presenting comprehensive data validating forming gas ’ s efficacy and safety , he aims to gradually shift mindsets and demonstrate that responsible innovation is vital for longterm sustainability .
A path to industry wide adoption
Kruijer and Lechevallier ’ s efforts to promote forming gas have already gained traction within the industry . Their work has been incorporated into API 6Z ( now Annex M of API 6D ), which focuses on hydrogen gas valves . This inclusion marks a significant step towards broader acceptance and
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standardisation . The next goal is to incorporate forming gas testing into ISO 15848 , the international standard for fugitive emissions testing . With the standard approaching its revision cycle , there ’ s a window of opportunity to influence industry practices on a global scale . “ The adoption of forming gas testing is a valuable opportunity for the industry ,” Kruijer states . “ Rather than overlook or dismiss it , consider how it could offer benefits . Shell represents only a small fraction of the oil & gas sector , so broader adoption is essential for meaningful impact .”
A future of sustainable innovation
The introduction of forming gas as an alternative for fugitive emission testing arrives at an opportune time , as the industry grapples with helium shortages and rising costs . Kruijer sees this innovation as a catalyst for broader change , potentially sparking an industry-wide embrace of sustainable practices . Beyond fugitive emissions , Kruijer envisions a shift towards green valves . “ Fugitive emission performance testing is no longer just about immediate air quality concerns ,” he explains . “ That ’ s largely technically solved .” He continues , “ The next frontier is the ‘ green valve ’. It takes a comprehensive approach to valve design and maintenance . This focuses on reliability and durability to minimise overall emissions throughout the valve ’ s lifecycle .” Kruijer elaborates , “ We consider not just the carbon footprint of manufacturing a valve , but its overall contribution to Green House Gas emissions . This includes factors like
16 Valve World October 2024 www . valve-world . net