Pipeliners Dictionary
Common Failures for hydrogen Pipelines
Hydrogen pipelines, like any other pipelines, can experience a variety of failures that can result in leaks, ruptures, or other types of damage. Some of the most common types of failures in hydrogen pipelines include:
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Corrosion: Hydrogen pipelines are susceptible to corrosion, especially when they are made of materials that are not compatible with hydrogen. Hydrogen can react with some materials and cause the pipeline to corrode over time, which can lead to leaks or ruptures.
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Mechanical damage: Mechanical damage can occur as a result of digging, drilling, or other construction activities that occur near the pipeline. This type of damage can cause cracks, dents, or other types of deformations in the pipeline, which can lead to leaks or ruptures.
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Fatigue: Fatigue can occur in pipelines that are subjected to repeated stress from pressure changes or temperature fluctuations. Over time, this stress can cause the pipeline to weaken, which can result in leaks or ruptures.
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Weld failures: Weld failures can occur when the pipeline is not properly welded or when the welds become damaged over time. Weld failures can cause leaks or ruptures in the pipeline.
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Internal corrosion: Internal corrosion can occur when hydrogen reacts with the pipeline’s internal surface, causing the metal to corrode and weaken. This type of corrosion can result in leaks or ruptures in the pipeline.
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Overpressure: Overpressure can occur when the pressure in the pipeline exceeds the maximum operating pressure. Overpressure can cause the pipeline to fail, resulting in leaks or ruptures.
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Improper installation: Improper installation of the pipeline can result in a variety of problems, including leaks, ruptures, or other types of damage.
It is important to regularly inspect and maintain hydrogen pipelines to minimize the risk of failure. Regular inspections can help identify potential problems before they become serious, allowing for prompt and effective repairs to be made.
It’s for a reason that we are amongst Germany’s Top 100 innovators. Because our mission is to overcome these inspection challenges and, together with our clients, continuously improve the safety and reliability of all pipelines.