(Berlin) - The Federal Institute for Materials Research and Testing (BAM) is investing 3,8 million euros in a “test platform for the safe operation of hydrogen and hydrogen-natural gas pipelines”. The system consists of several modules, the first of which will go into operation in early 2023, according to a statement. 
A secure pipeline network is essential for storing and transporting the gas. In addition to building a new gas network infrastructure for pure hydrogen, the reallocation of the existing natural gas networks is currently being discussed in order to add a certain percentage of hydrogen.
Testing of materials
The aim of the test platform is to offer industry and gas network operators the opportunity to clarify technical issues and solve problems in a practical manner so that safe and long-term operation of the existing infrastructure can be guaranteed. This includes the suitability of the materials in the pipeline network, which is several thousand kilometers long, as well as the hundreds of thousands of interfaces to households and businesses. With the possibility of testing under real conditions, it is possible to check, for example, to what extent the hydrogen molecules can attack the materials.
In addition to setting up the test platform, BAM is setting up further comprehensive testing options for modern hydrogen technologies on its twelve square kilometer technical safety test site in Brandenburg. Plans include, among other things, a high-pressure test stand up to 1000 bar, a test field for liquid hydrogen and another test platform to examine all technical processes surrounding a hydrogen filling station.
Competence center for hydrogen
The test area is part of the hydrogen competence center H2Safety@BAM, where around 130 employees currently work. Their expertise includes, among other things, the assessment of materials and containment systems for transport, safety aspects for storing hydrogen, the development and evaluation of new measurement methods for gas mixtures and the development of regulations, norms and standards. The BAM is a federal authority within the scope of the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Climate Protection.
Photos
Part of the technical safety test site in Brandenburg. © BAM
Class schedule
Fields of expertise in the field of hydrogen technologies. © BAM
