Solutions

Pipeline Repurposed for Hydrogen Transport

Dexon was tasked with inspecting a decommissioned underground methane pipeline that had been repurposed for hydrogen transport. The key challenge was to detect axial and circumferential cracks, geometric defects, and metal loss, while complying with strict French regulations and addressing the unique risks associated with hydrogen.

Pipeline Repurposed for Hydrogen Transport

Overview

Key challenge: 
Inspect a decommissioned underground methane pipeline repurposed for hydrogen transport—detecting axial and circumferential cracks, geometric defects, and metal loss—while meeting strict French standards and ensuring compatibility with hydrogen’s unique risks. 

  • Project Details 

  • Length: Under 6 km 

  • Diameter: 12-in. 

  • Type: Hydrogen transmission pipeline 

  • Inspection Medium: Water 

  • Location: Underground 

  • Continent: Europe 

  • Tool: 

  • UT-CD Axial Hawk 

  • UT-CD (Crack Detection) Circumferential & Metal Loss Hawk 

Conclusion 

Dexon’s UT-CD Hawk suite enabled a full-spectrum assessment of one of France’s first hydrogen transport pipelines, helping the operator safely convert an older natural gas line for green energy transport.  

The inspection has set the standard for future conversions as France unrolls its hydrogen energy program.