Hydrogen and ATEX: are we underestimating ignition energy?
Hydrogen disperses quickly, has a wide flammable range and low ignition energy. Existing gas logic is therefore not always enough.
Hydrogen is being introduced rapidly in electrolysis plants, storage facilities and industrial applications. Technically this requires a sharper approach than many traditional hydrocarbons.
The minimum ignition energy is low, diffusion is high and the flammable range is wide. Small leaks and apparently limited ignition sources can therefore carry more weight.
Reassessing assumptions
Zoning studies sometimes rely on assumptions from existing gas installations. For hydrogen, emission scenarios, ventilation effects and ignition sources must be reviewed critically again.
The energy transition requires speed, but explosion safety requires careful technical substantiation.
Source: Based on public/blogs/blog_9