How to Properly Design Hydrogen Fluid Systems by Understanding Key Differences with Oil & Gas

A bold new frontier of hydrogen systems is being developed around the world but the differences between traditional oil and gas and hydrogen designs are not often understood. When designing a fluid system, it is common for engineers to go back to what they know from oil and gas system design but there can be considerable cost and safety ramifications from this practice. Hydrogen systems are generally tubing systems that are under one inch and require special changes to valves and fittings. One example is the traditional cone-and-thread medium pressure fitting is not ideal for the small molecule hydrogen gas. We’ll touch on this and other differences a designer should consider for hydrogen system design.