Scaling Hydrogen Infrastructure: Challenges and Opportunities for OEMs and EPCs in Liquefaction and Compression

Abstract As global demand for hydrogen rises, OEMs and EPCs face increasing pressure to overcome the technical challenges of scaling hydrogen liquefaction and compression systems. Achieving significant improvements in turbomachinery and optimizing refrigeration cycles are essential to lowering specific energy consumption, unlocking economies of scale, and making large-scale liquid hydrogen (LH2) transport cost-competitive. In this paper, the authors examine the novel turbomachinery design considerations and/or process design changes required to scale up hydrogen liquefaction capacities from both an OEM and EPC perspective. Liquid hydrogen’s extreme cryogenic temperature (−253°C) creates new challenges. This requires certain considerations for material selection, insulation, and mechanical analysis to deal with the low molecular weight gas. Traditional LNG turbomachinery features need to be altered and redesigned to fit the new LH2 refrigeration cycle requirements. Building on these insights, the authors discuss hydrogen turboexpander configurations that are vital for OEMs and EPCs to meet the evolving needs of the hydrogen liquefaction market. In addition to the cryogenic challenges, compressing hydrogen gas at ambient temperatures requires handling its low-density at large flow rates safely and efficiently. Centrifugal, screw and reciprocating compressors used in hydrogen applications must be optimized for these conditions, ensuring high efficiency and reliability. In this context, the authors explore how advanced Turbo-compressor technologies are evolving through advanced material selection and higher tip speeds to meet the specific demands of hydrogen production, storage, and transportation. By addressing these key areas, the paper provides a comprehensive overview of the technological advancements required to support the expanding hydrogen economy and highlights the essential role of compression and liquefaction in achieving cost-effective, large-scale hydrogen transport.