Gas distribution station upgrade main gas pipelines

This paper proposes integrating an energy gas turbine expander unit (EGTEU) and a proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolysis unit into the standard technological scheme of a gas distribution station (GDS) for main gas pipelines (MGP). This solution represents an effective systematic approach to modernizing standard GDS, which not only increases their energy efficiency but also significantly reduces their environmental impact. A thermal scheme has been developed, and the operating principle of the new type of GDS is described. Based on thermodynamic analysis, the potential for generating additional electric power in the EGTEU to produce hydrogen in the PEM electrolysis unit has been evaluated. By modernizing standard GDS, it is possible to achieve electric power generation with an efficiency of up to 60 %, which is sufficient to power ultra-large-scale hydrogen production facilities. This presents promising opportunities for producing methane-hydrogen mixtures at GDS as a prospective fuel for consumers, which can significantly improve environmental performance compared to traditional natural gas.