Hydrogen industry
At LEXIER we are proud to be part of the ecosystem of companies that work every day to achieve Climate Neutrality by 2050. We are still at the beginning of an exciting adventure that we want to travel with you and that opens a door to hope: the hope that a better world is possible.
Green hydrogen, as a clean energy vector, is positioned as the most viable alternative to replace fossil raw materials and energy sources with renewables, thereby achieving the decarbonization of multiple sectors of the economy that are difficult to electrify.
The energy transition based on Green Hydrogen Technologies involves numerous technological, economic, and regulatory challenges. These include the need to develop appropriate infrastructure, ensure safety in the handling and storage of hydrogen, and establish regulatory frameworks that facilitate its widespread adoption. However, these challenges come with a wide range of opportunities, such as the creation of new jobs, the promotion of technological innovation, the diversification of the energy matrix, and the consolidation of a more resilient and competitive energy model on a global scale.
At Lexier, we understand the critical importance of having reliable and safe components for hydrogen technologies. That is why we offer a certified range of industrial valves specially designed for high-pressure hydrogen applications, guaranteeing efficient and safe gas control in all types of industrial processes. Our experience and commitment to quality position us as a key partner in the hydrogen value chain, supporting our clients in the transition toward a sustainable energy future.
Hydrogen Industry Applications
Frequently Asked Questions about Hydrogen Components
Ball valve or needle valve for hydrogen applications?
In high-pressure hydrogen applications, the choice between ball valve and needle valve depends on the required function: isolation vs. flow control. Ball valves for hydrogen are designed for on/off service, with high flow coefficient (Cv) and low pressure drop. They are suitable for main lines requiring fast opening/closing and high reliability in repetitive cycles. In H₂ service, they must meet strict leak-tightness requirements and material compatibility (seats in PEEK or modified PTFE). Needle valves for hydrogen allow precise flow control at high pressure, thanks to their conical obturator geometry. They are the standard choice in hydrogen dispensing systems (HRS), instrumentation and purge lines, where precision, flow stability and leak-tightness are critical, especially above 700 bar.
Which materials are compatible with hydrogen service to prevent embrittlement?
High-pressure gaseous hydrogen can cause Hydrogen Embrittlement (HE), affecting mechanical strength and fatigue life.
For compressed hydrogen applications, materials with high resistance to HE are recommended:
- 316L stainless steel (1.4404): industry standard due to its austenitic microstructure.
- Nickel alloys (Inconel 625, 718): excellent performance under severe conditions.
- Advanced alloys (e.g., Sandvik HP 160): optimized for very high-pressure hydrogen (>1000 bar).
Material selection should consider yield strength, microstructure, and compliance with standards such as ISO 11114-4.
Which certifications and regulations apply to hydrogen components in Europe?
Hydrogen systems and components in Europe must comply with specific regulations related to pressure equipment, safety, and explosive atmospheres:
- Pressure Equipment Directive (PED) 2014/68/EU – mandatory for pressure equipment.
- EC79 / UNECE R134 Regulation – hydrogen systems for mobility.
- ATEX Directive 2014/34/EU – equipment for explosive atmospheres.
Additional relevant technical standards:
- ASME B31.12 (hydrogen piping).
- ISO 19880-1 (hydrogen refueling stations – HRS).
- ISO 15649 (industrial piping).
Regulatory compliance is essential to ensure safety, CE marking, and acceptance in the European market.
What are the typical pressure ranges at each stage of the hydrogen value chain?
Pressure conditions vary significantly depending on the stage:
Production (alkaline/PEM electrolysis):
30–80 bar (advanced PEM systems may operate at higher pressures).
Compression and intermediate storage:
200–450 bar (buffers, cascades).
High-pressure storage:
450–700 bar (stationary systems and Type I–IV cylinders).
Dispensing (HRS – Hydrogen Refueling Stations):
350 bar (H35) and 700 bar (H70), with fueling protocols defined by SAE J2601.
Emerging / heavy-duty / transport applications:
≥700 bar, with developments exceeding 1000 bar to optimize energy density.
This wide range of conditions requires specific design considerations in mechanical integrity, sealing technology, cyclic fatigue, and hydrogen compatibility.
What is the difference between cone & thread fittings and double ferrule compression fittings in hydrogen applications?
In high-pressure hydrogen systems, fitting selection is critical to prevent leaks. These two technologies follow different sealing principles:
Cone & thread fittings
- Metal-to-metal sealing via conical interface (typically 60°).
- Very high-pressure capability (typically >1000 bar).
- Excellent resistance to hydrogen permeation and leakage.
- Require precise machining and controlled torque during installation.
- Lower tolerance to assembly errors.
Double ferrule compression fittings
- Sealing achieved through controlled deformation of ferrules onto the tube.
- Reliable leak-tightness in medium-to-high pressure ranges (~500–700 bar depending on design).
- Easier and more repeatable installation in the field.
- Suitable for instrumentation lines and modular systems.
- More sensitive to tube quality (hardness, ovality, surface finish).
For very high-pressure hydrogen applications and severe cyclic conditions, cone & thread fittings remain the benchmark in terms of mechanical integrity and long-term leak-tight performance.
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