This research marks a watershed moment in the use of green hydrogen as an energy source in industrial operations.
Viscofan successfully completed experiments at their Cáseda (Navarre) manufacturing facility to gradually replace natural gas in one of their boilers with green hydrogen.
The objective of the experiment was to partially replace natural gas with hydrogen. Increasing hydrogen flows of 400 Nm3/h were achieved thanks to the temporary installation of two hydrogen semitrailers, each with an approximate capacity of 4,000 Nm3 compressed hydrogen at 200 bar.
The performance of the 20 Tn steam boiler (manufactured by Umisa and installed in March of 2021) was evaluated in addition to meeting the safety criteria. The boiler’s full capacity for hydrogen (which enables an estimated 50 percent natural gas and 50 percent hydrogen) was attained thanks to a consistent supply throughout the test, resulting in a hydrogen flow of up to 900 Nm3.
This milestone, a first in an industrial process, is part of Viscofan’s decarbonization and climate change project, as outlined in the Viscofan Group’s Sustainability Action Plan, which aims to reduce CO2 emissions per produced kilometer by 30% by 2030, compared to emissions at the start of the Plan in 2018.
Viscofan has spent €4.2 million in Cáseda since the plan was implemented, in the acquisition of new co-generation engines and boilers capable of using green hydrogen as a fuel. Viscofan is ready to employ green hydrogen in its facilities, according to the test findings. We’re also cooperating with a variety of organizations to help our industry transition to a more energy-efficient state, where the regulatory framework, as well as production assurance and freight, are still being worked out.
