Hydrogen can be produced by steam reforming or water electrolysis, among other methods. For climate-friendly “green” hydrogen, the electricity required for water electrolysis stems from renewable sources such as wind or solar energy. Cryogenic processes play an important role in the processing of hydrogen, because the gas has a low molecular mass and only liquefies at temperatures of -253 degrees Celsius and below. Liquefaction of the hydrogen makes efficient handling possible, because thanks to the higher density, hydrogen can be stored more effectively in a liquid state and transported more easily to its destination. Valves that are used in the hydrogen infrastructure must be able to withstand extreme pressures and temperature ranges, so they have to be particularly robust. As an expert in industrial valves, Siekmann Econosto places high demands on the selection of materials for the individual valve components. The company makes use of external testing of the materials in a specialised laboratory in order to ensure that the valves guarantee maximum safety.

The materials are tested for the required ductility by means of the Charpy Impact Test at an impact test temperature of -269 degrees Celsius using special testing equipment. The ductility of the material is the prerequisite for the safety of the entire process.