Element, a leading provider of testing, inspection, and certification services, is launching a groundbreaking $10 million investment program. This comprehensive initiative includes cutting-edge hydrogen testing equipment and an expansion of Element’s hydrogen-focused team on a global scale.
Element’s commitment stems from recognizing hydrogen’s pivotal role in the future energy landscape. The primary goals of this substantial investment are to meet the rising demand from customers transitioning to cleaner energy solutions, especially those integrating hydrogen across diverse product life cycles and systems.
To fortify its capabilities, Element has introduced state-of-the-art testing equipment, including specialized static and dynamic fracture mechanics tools. Positioned in the UK and Europe, these laboratories can conduct hydrogen testing at pressures up to 100barg, frequencies below 1Hz, and cryogenic temperatures as low as -269degC. This infrastructure is strategically aligned to support the UK and European market and contribute to global pipeline infrastructures during the energy transition.
The investment expands Element’s services, covering digital modeling, simulation, support for Carbon Capture Usage & Storage (CCUS) projects, aerospace and transportation fuel tanks, and the establishment of pipeline and storage facilities for the energy sector. The recent acquisition of Filton Systems Engineering (FSE), specializing in aerospace engineering and testing, further enhances Element’s offerings related to hydrogen.
A dedicated hydrogen team, comprising experts across various hydrogen-related sectors, has been established at Element. This team collaborates globally, leveraging the expertise gained from recent acquisitions like Filton Systems Engineering and NTS Laboratories. Together, they form a knowledge hub capable of supporting customer projects throughout the hydrogen value chain and product life cycles.
Mark Eldridge emphasizes the significance of Element’s recent equipment investments, positioning the company as Europe’s largest capacity for fracture mechanics testing in the hydrogen sector. With expertise in gaseous and cryogenic liquids, combined with deep knowledge in materials science, corrosion, coatings, and electrochemistry, Element offers comprehensive testing, certification, and consulting services for various aspects of hydrogen-related technologies.
With over a century of experience, Element is uniquely positioned to navigate the evolving landscape of testing, inspection, and certification within the global energy sector. The company’s collaborative approach with customers across the supply chain, coupled with its commitment to compliance, safety, and sustainability, aligns with global efforts toward achieving stringent net-zero targets.
