What is a required characteristic of piping materials for hydrogen service?

In hydrogen service, piping materials must have a characteristic of resistance to corrosion primarily because hydrogen can contribute to stress corrosion cracking in certain metals, especially under high pressure and in the presence of moisture. This susceptibility highlights the necessity for materials that maintain their integrity and do not corrode easily in a hydrogen environment. Selecting materials that resist corrosion helps ensure safety, reliability, and longevity of the piping system.

While thermal insulation, flexibility, and electrical conductivity are important traits in various applications, they are not critical requirements specifically for hydrogen service. Thermal insulation might be necessary in managing temperature in some scenarios, flexibility could be beneficial for certain installations, and electrical conductivity is related more to electrical systems than to the integrity and functionality of piping materials handling hydrogen. Therefore, resistance to corrosion stands out as a vital characteristic for maintaining the safety and functionality of piping in hydrogen service.