The silent switches in the hydrogen network: our valves

By modifying, removing or replacing existing valve stations, and constructing new stations where necessary, we are gradually preparing the network for the safe transport of hydrogen.
 

What is a valve station?

A valve station is a site along a pipeline where we can open or close the pipeline. It is a small installation, usually enclosed by fencing, from which the valves can be operated.

The valves themselves are located underground. Above ground, only the operating mechanisms are visible, in the form of vertical pipes fitted with handwheels. Similar valves are already used in the existing natural gas network.

A valve works much like a tap, helping us control the transport of hydrogen safely. Each pipeline has its own valves. The valves are underground, while their operating mechanisms are above ground so that we can access them easily when necessary.

Valve stations are essential to a safe and properly functioning hydrogen network. They allow us to temporarily stop the flow of hydrogen and safely depressurise individual sections of the pipeline, for example during maintenance or in the event of a fault. This means that the entire network does not have to be shut down. Valve stations also make it possible to expand the network and connect new customers.

What work do we carry out at valve stations?

Our technical specialists carefully determine where valves are required along each pipeline route. The number of valves is established as part of the hydrogen network design and may vary from one area to another.

The design identifies where valves are needed, whether existing valves can be reused and where new valve stations must be constructed.

The location of the valves depends on:

• the length of the pipeline;
• the route and surroundings of the pipeline, for example whether it runs through an open area or close to buildings;
• crossings with roads or waterways; and
• the potential for future expansion of the network.
   

1. Converting existing valves
   Many existing natural gas valves are not suitable for hydrogen because hydrogen molecules are smaller than natural gas molecules. These valves are therefore removed or replaced with new valves designed for hydrogen. The new valves ensure that the pipeline can be sealed properly, that no hydrogen can leak and that the pipeline can be operated safely.
    
2. Constructing new valve stations
   Additional valve stations are sometimes needed to operate the hydrogen network safely and effectively. The valves allow us to isolate individual sections of the network, for example during maintenance.
   The new stations also make it possible to connect pipelines to one another. This means that we can expand the network or connect new customers in the future without having to reopen the entire site.
    
3. Removing valve stations
   If a valve is no longer needed or is unsuitable for the hydrogen network, it may be removed. This work is carried out carefully and always with consideration for the local area.
    

Why do we carry out this work?

We carry out this work to ensure that hydrogen can be transported safely and reliably. Valves play an important part in this. They help the network continue to function properly during maintenance or in the event of a fault, helping to keep the hydrogen supply as reliable as possible.

We also want to enable future connections without having to shut down the entire network. By controlling the flow of hydrogen, we can ensure that it reaches the places where it is needed, even when part of the pipeline system is temporarily isolated.
 

Preparing for the future

The hydrogen network must be ready for large-scale use by industry, import and storage sites, and for connections with other countries. Valve stations play an important part in developing this network step by step.

Our animation about repurposing existing natural gas pipelines explains how we prepare these pipelines for hydrogen transport and what we do with existing valve stations. Watch the animation.