Vallourec, a specialist in seamless pipes for the oil and gas industry, recently presented a revolutionary prototype for the vertical storage of hydrogen gas. This innovation, described as unique in the world, is the fruit of Vallourec’s know-how and aims to fill a gap in hydrogen storage on a global scale.
Prototype features
The prototype, unveiled at Vallourec’s Aulnoye-Aymeries plant, consists of columns of vertical tubes 20 meters high, designed to be watertight and resistant to hydrogen-induced corrosion. This design responds to the challenges posed by the small molecular size of hydrogen gas, which tends to leak and create ignition or explosion risks.
Green Hydrogen and Industrial Decarbonization
Green hydrogen is essential for replacing fossil fuels in heavy industry and certain means of transport. At present, hydrogen is mainly produced from methane, but the future lies in green hydrogen obtained from water electrolysis.
Advantages of Vertical Storage
Vincent Designolle, the group’s hydrogen manager, points out that the system will enable pipes to be laid at depths of up to 100 meters, offering a reduced footprint and adapting to constrained industrial sites. The current demonstrator can store 150 kg of hydrogen gas, with the potential to expand to 100 tonnes.
Safety and Innovation
The system is validated by the Norwegian DNV industrial risk control organization, thanks to a system of sensors and continuous ventilation. Four patents have been filed, testifying to Vallourec’s ongoing innovation in this field.
Impact on the Hydrogen Market
With growing worldwide demand for hydrogen, particularly in Europe, the United States, Brazil and the Middle East, Vallourec anticipates a rapid fall in the cost of its storage equipment, similar to that seen for solar panels.
Vallourec’s transition to non-fossil fuel applications
Vallourec, whose business is currently based mainly on the oil and gas industry, is aiming for 10-15% of its earnings to come from “non-fossil” applications by 2030. This strategic pivot towards hydrogen is part of a broader industry trend towards sustainability and decarbonization.
Vallourec’s vertical hydrogen storage prototype represents a significant breakthrough in the field of green hydrogen, offering an innovative and secure solution for storing gaseous hydrogen. This development marks a turning point for Vallourec in its commitment to energy transition and industrial decarbonization.
