Aspects of Adaptation of Flange Joints for Modern Low-Carbon Energetics

This study investigates the possible need for flange joint design adaptation when dealing with hydrogen.The study focuses on the comparison of flange joint design with two different leakage rates representing the need for higher tightness due to the leak-prone nature of hydrogen molecules.The model calculation following the European standard EN 1591-1 based on an industrial flange joint in a natural gas pipeline outlines the impact of changing tightness class on load ratios for bolts, gasket and flanges.While the operation remains safe in the specific case studied, the findings underscore the need for careful consideration in flange joint design when switching to natural gas hydrogen blends or pure hydrogen, ensuring both the safety and reliability of the processes in modern low-carbon energetics.