Why is HyFitts needed?

Gas installers are responsible for selecting fittings that enable them to meet the requirements of the relevant UK regulations when they install or make changes to pipework and appliances. There is a gap in the information available and the communication of that information about what equipment can be used in this new situation. Installers may not have the information they need to choose the appropriate fittings for their installation.

The suitability of various fittings for use with natural gas is well established.

Installation of appliances and pipework for use with hydrogen is a new situation in the UK but installers are expected to have the same responsibilities. Currently there is not a means for installers to check whether fittings are suitable for use with hydrogen. 

Kiwa's HyFitts service and the associated product marking will enable fittings suitable for use with hydrogen to be identified.

Who is HyFitts for?

People who manufacture or use (specifiers & installers) fittings for carrying gas to end users connected to low pressure networks

How will HyFitts work?

The process will bring together key information about the performance of a component and ongoing manufacturing quality. This will include:

  • Identifying the scope of use permitted within UK regulations (GS(I&U)R)
  • Confirmation that design, manufacture and performance are in accordance with one of more recognised British, European or UK Industry standards for the product type e.g. BS, ISO, Gastec QA, BSI Kitemark, CPR certification by an Approved Body) or other national standard. 
  • Confirmation that the performance with hydrogen is as good as with natural gas in terms of gas containment and control, and this may involve additional tests to be carried out.
  • Confirmation that all hydrogen wetted materials of construction are suitable based on the information available. This includes any requirements set in relevant standards concerning use with low or medium pressure distributed hydrogen. Where evidence is not available, additional testing of materials may be required to determine their suitability for long term exposure to hydrogen.

Scope 

The scope of HyFitts will be any fitting or pipe used to convey hydrogen at low or medium pressures. It will include

  • Connections, rigid – e.g. pipe couplings, brass unions, (joints, tees etc) with compression ends, press ends etc.
  • Connections, flexible – e.g. anaconda in corrugated steel, bayonet ended appliance connection hose
  • Controls – e.g. emergency control valve, excess flow valve, regulator
  • Tube / Pipe e.g. rigid or semi rigid copper, steel, etc.

This scope may change in response to developments in the industry.