Session: CS-07-02 The Warren H. Bamford Memorial Symposium on Recent Developments in ASME Codes and Standards-2

Paper Number: 155478

155478 - A New Specification for Valves in Hydrogen Gas Service 

Abstract: 

API have issued Addendum 2 to API 6D.  The Addendum includes a new Annex M, which is titled Valves in Hydrogen Gas Service.

API 6D is a specification by the American Petroleum Institute that governs the design, manufacturing, testing, and use of valves for pipeline applications in the oil and natural gas industries.

API 6D is the first specification to be written to include requirements for valves in hydrogen gas service.

Annex M provides a set of guidelines within the API 6D standard, specifically focused on the recommended practices for the selection, installation, and maintenance of pipeline valves.

Annex M follows the concept of using Quality Specification Level (QSL) within the main body of 6D and introduces Specification Level for Hydrogen, or SLH.  Similar to QSL in API 6D and PSL in API 6A, the SLH defines the requirements for design validation as well as additional quality and testing requirements.  As the SLH level increases from SLH1 to SLH 4, there is an increase in the validation, quality and testing requirements.

Annex M adds an extra layer of insight by offering a systematic approach to ensuring the safety, reliability, and operational integrity of pipeline valves, addressing concerns such as corrosion, pressure containment, and potential leakage.

The annex highlights essential factors like material selection, valve type suitability, and maintenance schedules, ultimately aiming to enhance the longevity and efficiency of pipeline operations.

This annex serves as a practical resource for pipeline engineers and operators, offering industry-standard recommendations that help mitigate risks, reduce downtime, and enhance pipeline safety.

Presenting Author: Ed Edgar SLB

Presenting Author Biography: Ed Edgar is an engineer and has been in oil and gas for 33 years. He is the Co-Chairman of API 6D, 6DSS and 6FA; Chairman of API 6DX and 6DSSX; member of API 6A and 6Y Task Groups and Convenor of ISO Technical Committee 67, Sub-Committee 2, Work Group 27. He is also Secretary of API Sub-Committee 6 of the Committee on Standardization of Oilfield Equipment Manufacturers (CSOEM). He is a licensed Professional Engineer in the State of Texas and is an Engineering Manager for the Cameron Valve Group at SLB.

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