Hydrogen Flame Detection and Monitoring On Fire for Hydrogen: How to Make the “Invisible” Flames Visible

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Everyone wants hydrogen - but isn't it dangerous? After all, the gas is non-toxic but highly flammable and a high level of safety awareness is key to safe operation that protects the environment, personnel and infrastructure - so it's high time to take a look at what needs to be considered when handling hydrogen in pipeline and infrastructure projects, for example. What technology is needed to detect the colorless H₂ flames? How do hydrogen leaks become visible? And what concrete steps can be taken today?

Renewable hydrogen is set to play a crucial role in the energy transition. European member states are already experimenting with this promising energy carrier, and they are testing how they can repurpose existing natural gas distribution networks to bring hydrogen to the consumer. Hydrogen is a highly flammable gas. That is why technical staff working on these hydrogen distribution networks will need to be trained for safety. They will also need to be equipped with the right tools to detect hydrogen leaks and see hydrogen flames in time. One such tool is the thermal imaging camera.

Hydrogen is enjoying renewed and growing attention around the world. In Europe for example, hydrogen is considered as a key priority to achieve the European Green Deal and Europe’s clean energy transition. It can be used as a feedstock, a fuel or an energy carrier and storage, and has many possible applications across the industry, transport and power sectors. Hydrogen is also an interesting alternative for heating old or historic buildings, which are typically difficult to insulate, and as a result, where all-electric heat pumps are not practical.