Teledyne FLIR is launching specially adapted thermal imaging cameras for the growing hydrogen market. The technology aims to improve safety during the conversion from natural gas to hydrogen networks, as H2 flames are barely visible in daylight.
Safety Risks During Network Conversion
When converting natural gas pipelines for hydrogen, excess gas must be flared off in a controlled manner. The resulting hydrogen flames are not only highly dangerous but also nearly invisible. Conventional detection methods like thermocouples, ultraviolet sensors, or infrared sensors can detect flames but don't allow visual monitoring of flame movements. Sometimes, contaminants like water or dust are deliberately added to the hydrogen to make flames more visible.
Innovative Monitoring Technology Already in Use
Teledyne's thermal imaging technology makes the heat radiation of flames visible and enables staff to monitor safely from a distance. This is particularly important as hydrogen is very light and wind gusts can cause unexpected flame movements. The systems are already being used in pilot projects, such as the British HyDeploy project and hydrogen heating trials in Lochem, Netherlands.
Beyond flame detection, the cameras are suitable for identifying hotspots and thermal inspections of system components. Compared to pure flame detectors, they are less susceptible to false alarms from sunlight or welding work.
Teledyne FLIR, a specialist in thermal imaging technology for over 60 years, offers both portable cameras for maintenance teams and permanently installed systems for continuous plant monitoring in the hydrogen sector. The technology is gaining importance with the expansion of hydrogen infrastructure. In Germany alone, over 9,000 kilometers of hydrogen pipelines are planned by 2032, mostly through the conversion of existing natural gas pipelines.
