CGH2 tube trailer leaking

The driver of a hydrogen tube trailer stopped for a rest break and heard an audible leak from the composite tubes module mounted on the trailer. Local Fire department, local emergency services and the police responded. They established an 800-ft (250 m) evacuation area for several hours. A technician of the shipping company responded and inspected on scene. The leak ceased without ignition (unclear if stopped by itself, or because of a manual intervantion). Later, the unit was returned to shipping company's facility, where it was emptied, inspected by tubes manufacturer and later sent to manufacturer plant for repair.

CGH2 tube trailer

The PHMSA reports that the starting point of the journey was a metal component manufacturer, the destination was a hydrogen producer. Based on this, it appears that the trip was probably a return trip. However, the trailer was still transporting more than half of the nominal capacity. If the starting and the arriving points would be swapped, the trip would make more sense.

Trailer technical specification (in SI): Nominal pressure = 275 bar Total capacity = 1,156 kg Configuration = 8 tubes, organised in 2x2 plus 2x2 arrays For one single tube: Nominal content of one tube= 135 kg Content in one tube before leak = 87 kg Content in one tube after leak = 66 kg

A limited amount og hydrogen was lost.

According to PHMSA report, pending manufacturer’s findings, the hydrogen supplier will: (1) maintain clear en-route leak-response protocols; (2) evaluate a brief post-pickup observation and targeted leak check where practical; (3) review the pre-trip checklist to capture pressure/valve status and consider a first-stop pressure confirmation; (4) coordinate with the tanks manufacturer on any inspection and apply recommended checks as appropriate; (5) submit a supplemental PHMSA incident form if the final inspection identifies a specific failure/cause or changes the reported facts.