EnglishAs the global energy transition accelerates, hydrogen has emerged as a key contender in the move towards lower-carbon energy systems. Governments and major energy companies are investing heavily in hydrogen production, storage and transportation, but while much of the conversation focuses on generation, the real challenge lies in infrastructure.
And more specifically: Piping.
Why Hydrogen Is Different
At first glance, hydrogen may seem similar to other industrial gases. In reality, it presents a completely different set of challenges.
Hydrogen molecules are significantly smaller than those of natural gas, meaning they can permeate materials more easily, increasing the risk of leakage. It is also typically transported and stored at very high pressures, placing additional stress on piping systems.
These differences mean that materials and designs that perform well in traditional oil and gas systems are not always suitable for hydrogen applications.
The Problem of Hydrogen Embrittlement
One of the most critical issues in hydrogen service is hydrogen embrittlement.
This occurs when hydrogen atoms diffuse into a metal, reducing its ductility and load-bearing capacity. Over time, this can lead to cracking and sudden failure—often without obvious warning signs.
Certain materials are particularly susceptible, especially under high-pressure conditions. This makes careful material selection essential for any hydrogen project.
Material Selection: Getting It Right
Choosing the right material is one of the most important decisions in hydrogen infrastructure design.
- – Carbon steels may be cost-effective, but can be vulnerable to embrittlement
- – Stainless steels offer improved resistance, but performance varies by grade
- – Nickel alloys and high-performance materials often provide the best resistance, particularly in demanding environments
However, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Engineers must balance performance, cost, availability and long-term reliability.
Design and Engineering Considerations
Beyond materials, hydrogen systems require careful attention to design and fabrication.
- – Weld quality becomes even more critical
- – Pressure ratings must account for long-term exposure
- – Testing and certification requirements are often more stringent
- – Maintenance strategies must consider gradual material degradation
As standards continue to evolve, engineers are working in an environment where best practices are still being defined.
What We’re Learning from Early Projects
Hydrogen infrastructure is still relatively new at scale, but early projects are already providing valuable insights.
There is a growing recognition that conservative material selection and robust testing are essential. In many cases, lessons learned from LNG and offshore applications are being adapted, but hydrogen introduces its own unique risks.
The Role of the Supply Chain
As projects become more complex, the role of the supply chain becomes increasingly important.
Reliable sourcing, full material traceability and consistent quality are critical, particularly when working with specialist alloys. Delays or inconsistencies in supply can have significant downstream impacts on project timelines and safety.
Companies with established global networks, strong relationships with mills, and deep technical knowledge are well-positioned to support this evolving sector.
Special Piping Materials, for example, has developed a global network of stockholding and sourcing capabilities, supplying high-performance piping materials used across energy, LNG and industrial applications. With extensive experience in exotic alloys such as duplex, super duplex and nickel alloys, suppliers like SPM play a key role in helping projects navigate complex material requirements.
Hydrogen offers enormous potential, but it is far from straightforward.
From embrittlement risks to material selection challenges, the success of hydrogen infrastructure will depend heavily on engineering expertise and supply chain reliability.
As the industry evolves, those who understand these challenges, and plan for them, will be best placed to deliver safe and successful projects.
