SRJ Technologies advances hydrogen-compatible pipe technologies
SRJ Technologies has kicked off its development project with Curtin University and SixDe.
Specialised engineering firm SRJ Technologies Group (ASX: SRJ) has made further progress with the development of hydrogen-compatible pipe technology.
The company announced a partnership with Curtin University and precision machining firm SixDe in September to develop new weld-free coupling technology to enable pipelines to meet the requirements of the emerging hydrogen industry.
The project has now kicked off with a detailed analysis of the future hydrogen market and the demand for leak sealing, mechanical connectors, isolation, repair and integrity solutions that can deal with the complexities of handling hydrogen.
While focusing on the proof of concept, manufacturing and commercialisation of the weld-free coupling technology, the project will also investigate the technology and demand for asset integrity solutions for non-metallic pipework and pipeline applications.
The project is scheduled for completion in the first quarter of 2023.
Curtin University’s world-class Corrosion Centre will play a key role in the investigation and testing of SRJ’s emerging hydrogen-compliant products. The centre conducts high-quality research in corrosion and materials related to the petroleum, mining, chemical processing, defence, maritime, automotive and biomedical industries.
New technology to overcome challenges of storing and transporting hydrogen
Hydrogen is emerging as a significant player in the global revolution to convert to low-carbon energy systems.
Although, this has highlighted challenges around the storage and transport of hydrogen gas and other hydrogen-bearing compounds. In some circumstances, this has been shown to cause hydrogen embrittlement or cracking in the welds of transmission pipelines.
Pure hydrogen is the smallest molecule on the periodic table and as such, has containment challenges as it can readily pass through certain materials. A hydrogen-based energy system will therefore contest the norms for maintenance and repair to ensure security of supply.
SRJ chief executive officer Alexander Wood said the company is positioning itself as a ‘first mover’ in this technologically demanding market.
“We are excited to have commenced this project and at the extended market opportunities it will bring.”
“We also see our partnership with Curtin University’s Corrosion Centre as critical to validate our developed intellectual property (IP) for this global emerging market,” he added.