Quantity and Pressure limitation

This LAP¨refers to the quantity and pressure limitations. It underlines what are the requirements and limitations in terms of pressure and quantity of hydrogen for hydrogen transport. Finally, it shows if it is possible to increase the pressure/quantity, and if yes which authority is competent, what is the process to follow, how long does it takes and what are the costs associated if known.

Glossary:

Quantity and Pressure limitation represent the maximum quantity and/or pressure of gases which is allowed to be transported.

Pan-European Assessment:

There is no limitation in terms of pressure, (mostly transported at around 200-300 bars) In terms of quantity, the limitation is connected to the maximum weight the truck can transport.

select country:

Is it a barrier?

Yes

Type of Barrier

Structural barrier

Assessment Severity

Assessment

This legal-admnistrative procedure is needed to ensure safe transport. It is argued, however, that the requirements are interpreted and implemented in a slightly different way in Norway and the EU than for example the US. , and that it should be possible to enter multilaterial agreements (M270) concerning the working pressure of composite cylinders for the carriage of compressed hydrogen. This could reduce the cost of transport and distribution, which is a major barrier to hydrogen deployment. ADR/RID is the umbrella legislation. The interpretation, implementation in practice is different in different parts of the world. Without a uniform interpretation, technology providers in some countries may be disadvantaged, and reluctance to increase the pressure/quantity where this might be done without compromising on safety may be seen to contribute to the high cost of distribution. Efforts to develop new standards are therefore important.

Questions:

Question 1 What are the pressure requirements and limitations accepted for hydrogen transport by road?

Those stated in chapter 4, subchapter 4.3.3, of the ADR/RID agreement. The container systems must meet the requirements of ECE Regulation No. 67 Revision 2, ECE Regulation No. 110 Revision 12, or ECE Regulation No. 115 or Regulation (EC) No. 79/20094 in combination of Regulation(EU) No. 406/20105, as relevant. The common transport method in Norway currently is truck transport of compressed hydrogen at 200 bars. Hexagon Composites has developed container solutions packed with Type 4 high pressure composite tanks, but as the international rules are not harmonised, different solutions have to be developed for different markets. The upper limit for composite cylinders in Norway currently is 520 bars (ADR 6.2.5.5)

Question 2 What are the quantity requirements and limitations accepted for hydrogen transport by road?

As per ADR/RID, max. 3000 liters. In practice, bundles of steel containers (147 x 50 l) have been most used up to now.

Describe the comparable technology and its relevance with regard to hydrogen

Other low flash-point gases.

National legislation:

Regulation of road transportation of dangerous goods, 1. July 2009 (Forskrift om landtransport av farlig gods
The regulation defines the obligations and requirements regarding preparation, execution and finalisation of any land transportation of dangerous goods, including transfer to or from another mode of transportation, as well as requirements in the area of monitoring, control and training
ADR/RID 2017 – Regulation 1. April 2009, no. 384 on road transportation of dangerous goods (ADR/RID 2015 – Forskrift 1. April 2009, nr. 384 om landtransport av farlig gods
Regulation of transportable pressure equipment (Forskrift om transportabelt trykkutstyr
National regulation (government), Mandatory (decree)
Regulation of transportable pressure equipment that is new on the market and not used solely for transport of dangerous goods between Norway and countries outside EEA in accordance with the ADR/RID Directive. Requires renewed conformity marking (samsvarsvurdering) to ensure that the technical equipment meets requirements equivalent to those of ADR/RID. Regulation of control and use of CE marked transportable pressure equipment, which also should be equivalent or in conformity with ADR/RID...

EU Legislation:

ADR European Agreement concerning the international carriage of dangerous goods by roads.
hazardous materials may in general be transported internationally in wheeled vehicles, provided that conditions be met for the product packaging and labelling; and that the construction, equipment, and use of vehicles for the transport is compliant:
ADR European Agreement concerning the international carriage of dangerous goods by roads.ADR European Agreement concerning the international carriage of dangerous goods by roads.
ISO/DIS 17519 (EN) Gas cylinders – Refillable, permanently mounted composite tubes for transportation
Specifies the minimum requirements for the material, design construction and workmanship, manufacturing processes, examination and testing at time of manufacture of an assembly of permanently mounted composite tube(s) in a frame with associated components.