H2Tech - Q4 2022 - 9

INFRASTRUCTURE AND DISTRIBUTION
worth noting that many of the benchmarked studies conducted
on relatively low-pressure gas networks showed marginal
flexibility in tolerating an increased blended H2
reaching up
to 5%-10% concentration limits. Further research and testing
through joint industrial programs (JIPs) are ongoing to provide
insight into the material H2
embrittlement with detailed
validation and qualification requirements for the industry.
Multiple local network components were assessed to determine
the expected limits. The study's findings indicated
there was no common limiting H2
value that is valid for all
parts of the natural gas network infrastructure. The blending
limits for the various components are shown in FIG. 2 and
summarized in TABLE 2.
The illustrated results and findings are related to the first
option of injecting H2
blending H2
into the natural gas grid. Conversely,
at the end-user's battery limit is a viable method
transmission pipeline with properly qualified materito
mitigate the constraints. In this case, a dedicated low-pressure
H2
als will be utilized to deliver 100% H2
to end users responsible
for making the right blend at their battery limits. The
H2
source could be from blue H2 production (steam methane
reforming with carbon capture and storage) and/or green H2
(renewable power with electrolysis).
Takeaway. Blending H2
into the entire natural gas system
presents complexities with uncertain risks on pipeline metallurgy
and constraints to some end users that use this gas as a
feedstock. It is not the most cost-effective option for decarbonization
vs. the dedicated H2
network option, which offers
fuel usage.
a significantly lower cost per ton and enables targeting selected
end users most suited for decarbonization via H2
Alternatively, investing in a standalone H2
minimize the cost required to build larger H2
network will
production facilities,
avoid expensive gas network modifications and allow
the flexibility to deliver H2
at higher concentrations at the end
user's battery limits. Therefore, to further develop the dedicated
H2
network that can supply blue and green H2
, a more
comprehensive assessment of end users should be undertaken
to ensure feedstock users are not impacted.
The gas turbine market should be monitored for developments
in the limits of H2
There is also a potential for increased H2
in existing gas turbine machines.
concentrations
without impacting the modification cost, leading to increased
decarbonization levels and expanding H2
supply. Operational
expenditure reduction can be capitalized through increased
investments in green energy projects across Saudi Arabia, reducing
the overall cost of renewable power for H2
from electrolysis over the long term.
AYIDH AL-QAHTANI is a Process Engineer in the Energy Transition Engineering
department for Saudi Aramco.
WAEL F. BLAIES is a General Supervisor in the Energy Transition Engineering
department for Saudi Aramco.
DR. ABDULLAH M. AL-RUMAIH is a Principle Professional in the Consulting
Services department for Saudi Aramco.
MEGAT AHMAD RITHAUDDEEN is a Gas Process Engineering Specialist in the
Process & Control Systems department for Saudi Aramco.
production
WEH®
Hydrogen
Refueling Components
Superior quality for maximum reliability
For fueling stations: For vehicles:
Î Fueling Nozzles
Î Breakaway Couplings
Î Hoses
Î Filters
FIG. 1. Overview of the workstreams.
Î Receptacles
Î Check valves
SAFE & EASY
H2
Refueling
FIG. 2. Local network component heat map H2
admixture limit.
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H2Tech | Q4 2022 9
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H2Tech - Q4 2022

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