Hydrogen is the next big thing in gas measuring technology. With hydrogen expected to play a crucial role in the quest for net zero, being able to properly measure hydrogen flow will be essential to the success of these projects. MWA is at the forefront of this transition, excited about the transformation that hydrogen could bring to the industry.
We are working with a number of leading manufacturers to ensure stock for meters that are suitable to be used with hydrogen mixes, and we currently stock a range of equipment which is approved for hydrogen use.
The hydrogen scenarios of the future
As hydrogen becomes commonplace, MWA expects the following scenarios in the metering industry:
- Hydrogen mixture of up to 20% in the natural gas network
- 100% hydrogen pipelines within hydrogen producing and receiving networks
- 100% hydrogen pipelines for major industrial use, repurposing existing pipelines
These circumstances are therefore what metering technology should be targeting. This means the ability to read up to 20% in common gas networks and more specialised equipment for pure hydrogen pipelines.
However, hydrogen comes with a range of challenges that must be addressed. For example, hydrogen requires different materials as it reacts to materials differently than natural gas. Each scenario will require extensive planning and specific meter types to ensure the hydrogen in the network is properly measured. There is still a long way to go in this regard: as it stands, there is currently no way to accurately measure hydrogen when it is occurring in a flow rate of less than 10M3/h.
Hydrogen requirements
As hydrogen is a new technology, the regulation currently depends on the amount of hydrogen passing through the pipeline. Currently:
- Up to 5% hydrogen – the use of regular meters is possible without restriction
- Up to 10% hydrogen – the device requires a manufacturer’s declaration, certifying it for hydrogen usage
- Up to 20% hydrogen – the device requires a PTB approval clearance certificate
- Over 20%, including 100% hydrogen – the device needs a separate approval, of which the requirements are still under investigation with PTB
MWA is ready when you are
MWA stocks a range of hydrogen-ready equipment from RMG, ready to support your business in the transition, whenever it may happen. Below is a list of stocked equipment which can be used with hydrogen today, based on current regulation.
List of hydrogen approved equipment available from MWA
| Product Name | Product Type | Approvals |
|---|---|---|
| USM GT400 | Ultrasonic Flowmeter | Certified up to 30% hydrogen mix |
| USZ 08 | Ultrasonic Flowmeter | Certified up to 10% hydrogen mix |
| TRZ-03 from YOM 2008 | Turbine Gas Meter | Certified up to 30% hydrogen mix |
| TRZ-03 until YOM 2008 | Turbine Gas Meter | Certified up to 10% hydrogen mix |
| TME 400-VMF, all YOM | Turbine Gas Meter | Certified up to 10% hydrogen mix |
| TME 400-VMC, all YOM | Turbine Gas Meter | Certified up to 10% hydrogen mix |
| PGC 9302 | Process Gas Chromatograph | Approved for biogas up to a hydrogen content of 5% |
| PGC 9303 | Process Gas Chromatograph | Approved for biogas up to a hydrogen content of 5% |
| PGC 9303 | Process Gas Chromatograph | Approved for biogas up to a hydrogen content of 20% |
| Primus 4000 | Compact Corrector | Approved up to 10% hydrogen mix |
| EC 900 | Compact Corrector | Approved up to 10% hydrogen mix |
| ERZ 2000-NG | Flow Computer | 100% hydrogen possible with Beattie Bridgeman method |
| ERZ 2000-DI | Flow Computer | GERG2004 or GERG2008 are compatible up to 100% |
| Pressure transmitter Rosemount | Flow Computer | 100% hydrogen, requires gold coated membrane for compatibility at all pressures and temperatures |
| Pressure transmitter E+H | Flow Computer | 100% hydrogen up to 10 bar, 20% up to 60 bar, 10% without restriction |
| Thermowells for the T. transmitter | Flow Computer | 100% hydrogen |
Talk hydrogen with the experts
If you are operating with hydrogen, don’t hesitate to get in touch with MWA. Our team of experts can talk you through our entire hydrogen-approved range and help you find the right product for your hydrogen application. With over 20 years in the metering industry, you can trust MWA.
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