Hydrogen: Live Transmission

Abstract The Local Transmission System (LTS) Futures project looks to produce a blueprint methodology for repurposing natural gas transmission pipelines to convey hydrogen. The project incorporates a range of small and full-scale testing and will culminate in a 6-month live trial whereby a 30 km, natural gas transmission pipeline shall be repurposed and operated with hydrogen. Mechanical testing of pipeline material, seam and girth welds in air and pressurized, gaseous hydrogen is underway to inform the development of repurposing standards. Full-scale burst testing of defects has been conducted to link small-scale testing to full-scale behaviour. Longer term, full-scale, fatigue testing of defects and new connections are underway. Operational activities, such as hydrogen flaring, live welding, and under-pressure drilling, have been investigated. An overview of testing completed to date is discussed.