Hydrogen
Hydrogen is one of the smallest, lightest and cleanest elements that can be used as a fuel, a role that could be central to reducing greenhouse gas emissions. ASME supports the production, transport, storage and use of hydrogen through codes, standards, training and certification; 3HCSI monitors this ecosystem on behalf of its European clients.
at a glance
- Ecosystem: production, transport, storage, use
- 29 ASME codes identified in the TGP-1 guideline
- A selection of 8 key codes used on this website
- ASME has set up the ‘Hydrogen for a Green Economy’ Steering Committee
A complex network, four stages.
The hydrogen ecosystem comprises many interconnected elements (production, storage, transport and use) which enable hydrogen to be utilised as a fuel, a raw material for chemical processes or a reducing agent.
Production
Most hydrogen is produced through steam methane reforming (SMR) of natural gas, coal gasification and water electrolysis, in the form of ‘Blue Hydrogen’ (SMR with carbon capture) and ‘Green Hydrogen’ (electrolysis using renewable energy sources).
Transportation
Hydrogen can be transported by pipeline, road tanker, rail and ship: in gaseous or liquefied form, or as a chemical carrier (ammonia, metal hydrides).
Storage
Storage takes place in gaseous or liquefied form, in pressure vessels or in geological storage sites.
End Use
Hydrogen is used as a fuel or raw material in many sectors: utilities, steel, oil and gas, automotive, chemicals and fertilisers.
Eight codes, a selection from the 29 in the ecosystem.
The ASME TGP-1 guideline identifies 29 codes and standards relevant to the entire hydrogen value chain. This is a selection of the eight most significant ones, categorised by document type and stage of the ecosystem, from supplier quality to pressure vessels, from welding to end use.
Hydrogen Piping and Pipelines
Construction code for hydrogen-specific pipes and pipelines: covering production, transport, storage and use.
Details →Quality Program for Supplier
Quality requirements for suppliers in the General Industry sector, covering all four stages of the hydrogen ecosystem.
Details →BPVC Section VIII, Div. 1
Rules for the construction of pressure vessels, relevant to hydrogen storage.
Details →BPVC Section IX
Qualification of procedures for welding, brazing and casting of components.
Details →Gas Transportation & Distribution Piping
Gas transmission and distribution systems, relevant to the transport of hydrogen within the network.
Reference sheetConformity Assessment Requirements
General requirements for ASME conformity assessment, applicable to the entire hydrogen ecosystem.
Details →Fuel Cell Power Systems Performance
Performance standard for fuel cell systems, End-use aspect of the ecosystem.
Reference sheetStandards, training, certification.
ASME supports the development of clean hydrogen on three main fronts: with a particular focus on an ecosystem that presents specific challenges in terms of production, storage, transport and materials, including hydrogen-induced stress corrosion cracking when hydrogen is blended into existing natural gas networks.
Codes & Standards
Standards governing the production, transport, storage and use of hydrogen.
Go to Codes & Standards →Courses
Accredited training for engineers and professionals in the hydrogen sector.
Go to Training →Certifications
Markings certifying compliance with ASME standards across the hydrogen ecosystem.
Go to Certification →ASME has also set up the Steering Committee “Hydrogen for a Green Economy” , which is working on a Hydrogen Guidance Document to support the safe and reliable deployment of hydrogen, as detailed on the page Certification & Accreditation.
Why it matters
Hydrogen is seen as a key fuel for cutting greenhouse gas emissions, the US has set a target of a 50–52 per cent reduction by 2030 and net-zero by 2050. Specific challenges remain in relation to production, storage, transport and materials. Technical details on each challenge can be found in the Member Area, where you can request a Pre-Assessment from our qualified technicians.
Ecosystem
- Production · Transportation · Storage · End Use
- 29 ASME codes identified (TGP-1 guideline)
Frequently asked questions.
How is hydrogen produced?+
Mainly through steam methane reforming (SMR) of natural gas, coal gasification and water electrolysis, with the variants Blue Hydrogen (SMR with carbon capture) and Green Hydrogen (electrolysis using renewable energy sources).
What is the TGP-1 guideline?+
An ASME document providing a high-level overview of existing standards for those working in the hydrogen sector, engineers, managers, plant owners, operators, manufacturers, inspection bodies and regulators, including standards from other organisations such as API, ISO, AMPP and CGA.
What is the specific ASME code for hydrogen pipework?+
ASME B31.12, Hydrogen Piping and Pipelines, which deals with the design of hydrogen piping and pipelines.
Does 3HCSI comply directly with these codes?+
3HCSI advises and supports the companies in its network on the ASME standards applicable to the hydrogen ecosystem, in line with its role as official liaison.
Would you like to find out which hydrogen standards apply to your business?
Write to us: we’ll work with you to assess the ASME codes relevant to your situation.