Corinth Pipeworks delivers first hydrogen-certified pipeline project for Snam

Following the framework of ASME B31.12 Option B, Corinth Pipeworks and Snam cooperation provides a technically and economically feasible solution for the safe transportation of hydrogen at high pressures through large diameter/high strength steel pipelines. Thus, pipes produced today and installed in the current gas network can cover the energy mix of tomorrow. As required by this standard the pipes, in L415ME steel grade with an outside diameter of 26 in. (660 mm) and thicknesses of 11.1 mm & 15.9 mm, have been tested in laboratory at maximum pressure and 100% hydrogen.

“We are very excited to be an innovative producer and early adopter, providing certified large diameter/high strength steel pipes for hydrogen transportation. The potential of hydrogen to build a sustainable energy mix in the future and achieve global decarbonisation targets is significant, and Corinth Pipeworks aims to be an integral part in providing solutions to its customers to reach their goals,” said Ilias Bekiros, CEO of Corinth Pipeworks.

“This agreement confirms Snam’s commitment to making its infrastructure increasingly ready to transport not only natural gas and biomethane, but also hydrogen. While we are continuing with analysis and certification of our network, when we replace old pipelines, we now routinely use new pipes tested in the laboratory in line with international standards and able to transport hydrogen up to 100% without changing pressure. Our goal is to deliver fully decarbonised gas by 2050,” commented Massimo Derchi, Chief Industrial Assets Officer of Snam.

The full quantity of hydrogen certified pipes was manufactured in Corinth Pipeworks’ plant in Thisvi, Greece. Scope of supply also includes external 3LPE anti-corrosion coating and internal liquid epoxy lining applied at the same location as pipe manufacturing. With the support of its long-term partner in Italy, PIPEX Italia, Corinth Pipeworks has been a trusted supplier of Snam for over a decade with more than 1000 km of completed and under execution pipeline projects.

In the context of this commonly organised project, Corinth Pipeworks and Snam have successfully concluded the necessary action plan enabling these gas line pipes to be certified for up to 100% hydrogen. Action plan incorporated analysis of hydrogen design codes, development of pertinent qualification specifications and test procedures, design of steel according to recommended practices and specialised long-term test campaigns for the qualification of weld and parent metal crack resistance at design pressure and 100% hydrogen. The action plan was implemented in cooperation with RINA, an acknowledged external certification body, highly experienced in hydrogen testing and fracture mechanics.

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World Pipelines’ June 2021 issue

The June issue of World Pipelines includes a regional report on Russia’s most prominent oil and gas pipeline projects, as well as technical articles on design standardisation (Burns & McDonnell), corrosion (Tesi S.p.A.), hydrogen blending in pipelines (ILF) and much more. Don’t miss the dedicated Coatings Q&A on p. 23, with Winn & Coales International Ltd.

Read the article online at: https://www.worldpipelines.com/project-news/04062021/corinth-pipeworks-delivers-first-hydrogen-certified-pipeline-project-for-snam/