Fraunhofer Develops Simulation Tool for Hydrogen Network Resilience Planning

Scientists at the Fraunhofer Institute for High-Speed Dynamics, Ernst-Mach-Institut (EMI), are developing a numerical simulation tool designed to assess and improve the resilience of hydrogen pipeline networks against disruptions from natural disasters, sabotage, or political sanctions.

The hydraulic simulation software models dynamic reactions of hydrogen networks with storage systems to extreme disruptions. The tool enables what-if analyses to identify critical system components, classify their impact severity, and evaluate overall system resilience. It provides precise information on which network elements lose supply and the timeline for restoration following a disruption.

The simulation method is based on algorithms originally developed for the EU's SecureGas project to model natural gas networks. Researchers are adapting this technology for hydrogen applications, accounting for hydrogen's different physical properties—smaller molecules, higher diffusion rates, and adjusted pressure conditions. The tool incorporates dynamic pressure and flow modeling, as well as flexible storage capacity integration supporting various storage types.

According to Fraunhofer researcher Till Martini, the tool can model scenarios such as networks disconnected from supply sources for extended periods. Analyses show that additional hydrogen storage facilities could help compensate for supply shortfalls, though hydrogen's lower density and calorific value compared to natural gas requires larger storage capacities.

The simulation platform enables rapid predictions for hydrogen networks ranging from local distribution grids to international transport networks, supporting both operational planning and resilience assessments for future energy supply systems.

Originally reported by Hydrogen Central. Read the full article →