Hydrogen Distribution

Energized Solutions: Safety is paramount in the realm of hydrogen transport, which is why we've fortified our piping systems for the future. Our comprehensive piping components are suitable for 100% hydrogen, certified by KIWA (AR214) and DBI, ensuring secure transport of hydrogen.

Certified Systems Powering Hydrogen Distribution

Hydrogen transportation is largely facilitated via big pipelines in combination with other energy carriers such as ammonia and Liquid Organic Hydrogen Carriers (LOHC). The repurposing of natural gas pipelines for hydrogen transportation faces some technical challenges, such as hydrogen embrittlement and permeation. Our polymer utility products have been certified “100% hydrogen ready” for low-pressure distribution applications, according to the requirements and regulations of our customers.

Products

ELGEF Plus system

ELGEF Plus

GF Piping Systems has become a global leader in plastic piping systems, thanks to the exceptional versatility and reliability of ELGEF Plus fittings and saddles. Our extensive selection of PE couplers, saddles, and fittings ensures maintenance-free connections and limitless possibilities. We prioritize safety and quality, offering market-aligned solutions with superior electro and butt fusion welds. Our complete package includes ELGEF Plus tools, welding machines, and custom services, ensuring flexibility and efficient installations. Beyond just reliability, our polyethylene products are environmentally friendly, boasting a significantly lower carbon footprint than metal alternatives.

MULTI/JOINT® 3000 Plus couplers

MULTI/JOINT® 3000 Plus

Using the MULTI/JOINT® 3000 Plus system, hydrogen pipe networks are quick, safe, and simple to connect without the need for special tools. Thanks to the flexibility of MULTI/JOINT® 3000 Plus, meeting the specifications of a wide variety of materials and the outside diameters of the pipelines is no longer a challenge. Connections or repairs are carried out by means of a restraint pull-out resistance system. This eliminates the need to work with thrust blocks. Thanks to the one-size fits and grips all principle, stock costs can be saved.

Fusion Studio TIFF File

FAQs

What is the significance of offering a broad range of certified hydrogen ready products?

In response to the social and industrial focus on sustainable energy sources, GF Piping Systems has already taken steps to future-proof its range of products. Our comprehensive piping components are suitable for 100% hydrogen approved by KIWA (AR214). 

In addition to that, we are proud to share our approvals for ELGEF Plus and WAGA products being 100% H2 ready tested by DBI Gastechnologisches Institut in Leipzig, Germany. Our products have been preemptively designed and tested to meet stringent international standards, ensuring they are ready for immediate deployment once local regulations are in place. This proactive approach ensures that our clients can quickly adapt to new regulatory environments without compromising on safety or performance.

What tests have been performed by DBI and KIWA on GF Piping Systems’ products?

DBI and KIWA have conducted extensive tests on our products, including pressure testing, leak testing, and material compatibility assessments. These tests ensure that our products can safely and effectively handle hydrogen under various conditions. The rigorous testing protocols verify that our piping systems maintain integrity, prevent leaks, and resist the specific challenges posed by hydrogen, such as embrittlement and permeation.

Why is it challenging to transport hydrogen, and how can GF Piping Systems’ products help overcome these challenges?

Transporting hydrogen is challenging due to its low density, high diffusivity, and potential for embrittlement in metallic pipelines. GF Piping Systems’ products, made from alternative materials like polyethylene, offer solutions to these challenges by providing secure, leak-proof, and durable piping systems that are resistant to hydrogen embrittlement and permeation. Our polymer piping solutions are designed to mitigate these risks, ensuring safe and efficient hydrogen transport.

What are the specific standards that KIWA follows for certification?

Standards Followed by KIWA Certification
KIWA is an independent organization renowned for its across various industries, including water, energy, and construction. To ensure compliance with KIWA certification for hydrogen distribution, the following standards must be followed:

  1. GASTEC QA Approval Requirement 214: This standard ensures the fitness of materials and components for admixtures up to and including 100% hydrogen gas. It is crucial for verifying that the materials used can safely handle pure hydrogen as well as hydrogen blends.

  2. GASTEC QA Approval Requirement 200: This basic certificate pertains to electrofusion fittings and saddles made from polyethylene (PE). It ensures that these components meet the necessary quality and safety standards for use in gas distribution networks.

KIWA’s certification process involves comprehensive assessments of product performance, material integrity, and adherence to these international standards. Their certifications provide assurance that products meet the highest safety and quality benchmarks for hydrogen applications.

For more information on KIWA’s certification standards, visit their website: Hydrogen components testing and certification - Kiwa.

What specific standards does DBI adhere to for certification purposes?

DBI (Gas Technology Institute in Leipzig, Germany) specializes in testing and certification for gas technology and related infrastructure, including hydrogen applications. To ensure compliance with DBI certification for hydrogen distribution, the following standards must be followed:

  1. DBI-GTI 108: This standard involves testing for H2 readiness for fittings made of polyethylene (PE). It ensures that the fittings are capable of safely handling hydrogen gas without degradation or failure.

  2. DBI-GTI 106: This standard pertains to testing for H2 readiness for shut-off valves made of PE. It verifies that the shut-off valves can operate reliably and safely in hydrogen gas environments.

  3. DVGW GW 335: This basic certification covers plastic piping systems in gas and water distribution. Specifically, Part B2 focuses on fittings made of PE 80 and PE 100. It sets the requirements and tests to ensure the quality and safety of these fittings for use in gas distribution networks.

DBI conducts rigorous testing according to these standards, evaluating factors like pressure resistance, leak tightness, and resistance to hydrogen embrittlement. Their certifications validate that products are suitable for use in hydrogen environments and comply with stringent regulatory requirements.

For more information on DBI’s certification standards for hydrogen applciations, visit Hydrogen - DBI-Gruppe.

Georg Fischer Piping Systems Ltd

Ebnatstrasse 111

8201 Schaffhausen

Switzerland

GF logo on the headquarters building