Advanced Leak Testing for Hydrogen Fuel Tanks: Ensuring Safety and Reliability
As the adoption of hydrogen fuel technology accelerates, ensuring the safety of high-pressure hydrogen fuel tanks becomes crucial. A key aspect of safety is leak detection, given hydrogen’s highly flammable nature. Leak testing these fuel tanks is essential to prevent potential hazards and maintain the integrity of the storage system. With increasingly stringent safety standards, modern testing techniques provide the precision and reliability needed to guarantee the performance of these tanks.
Customised Hydrogen Pressure Vessel Leak Detection Systems
VES’ advanced leak detection systems are tailored specifically to hydrogen pressure vessels, capable of identifying leaks even at extremely low flow rates. These customised systems are engineered to detect hydrogen leaks with the highest degree of precision, ensuring that even the smallest imperfections are caught before they can become risks. This is particularly important for hydrogen, which can escape through the tiniest of openings due to its molecular size.
Leak Detection with CPK > 1.67 – 5cc/hr Hydrogen Equivalent
To meet the highest safety and performance benchmarks, hydrogen fuel tanks undergo leak testing designed to detect flow rates as low as 5cc/hr of 100% hydrogen equivalent. Achieving a CPK (Process Capability Index) greater than 1.67 ensures that the leak detection process operates at a highly capable and reliable standard, minimizing the risk of undetected leaks and ensuring every hydrogen tank meets the required performance criteria.
Testing with Forming Gas, Helium Blend, or Nitrogen
Leak testing for hydrogen pressure vessels often involves the use of alternative gases such as forming gas, helium blends, or nitrogen. These inert or semi-inert gases provide a safe and effective way to simulate hydrogen conditions during testing without exposing the tank to the inherent risks associated with hydrogen itself. The choice of gas depends on the specific needs of the test, with each method offering its own advantages in sensitivity, accuracy, and cost-effectiveness.
Leak Testing from 300 to 875 Bar
Hydrogen fuel tanks are designed to store gas at high pressures, typically ranging from 300 to 700 bar. Each tank must be tested at these full-pressure ranges to ensure it can handle the immense forces involved without leaking or rupturing. This high-pressure testing simulates the real-world conditions the tanks will experience during regular operation, providing assurance of their long-term safety and durability.
Compliant with PEDG1, KGS, KHK, ASME, and SELO Standards
In addition to rigorous testing protocols, hydrogen pressure vessel testing must also comply with international safety and regulatory standards. These include PEDG1, KGS, KHK, ASME, and SELO certifications, which govern pressure regulation, manufacturing practices, and safety assurance. Adhering to these standards ensures that hydrogen tanks meet both local and global requirements for safe operation, providing confidence to manufacturers and consumers alike.
The Future of Hydrogen Safety
As hydrogen emerges as a critical energy source for a low-emission future, the safety of hydrogen storage systems remains paramount. Customised leak detection systems, along with advanced testing techniques, ensure that high-pressure hydrogen fuel tanks can meet the demanding conditions of modern transportation. With rigorous testing from 300 to 875 bar and compliance with global safety regulations, hydrogen fuel systems are becoming safer, more reliable, and ready to power the next generation of vehicles.
For more information visit https://www.vesnewenergies.com/ or email sales@vac-eng.com