Gas storage systems include all pressure vessels for gases. But in this context, it refers in particular to pressure receptacles and propellant gas storage systems, but also to stationary storage systems if these are used for a gas as an energy carrier, in particular hydrogen.

Gas storage systems have an inherent hazard potential due to the pressure under which the gas is stored. Accordingly, safety is always at the forefront when assessing gas storage systems, which is more and more defined and evaluated according to risk aspects.

The division "Safety of Gas Storage Systems" conducts research for the safety and probabilistic risk assessment of gas tanks in vehicles and pressure receptacles in the transport of dangerous goods. Here, the focus is on hydrogen as an energy carrier and coordination as a cross-cutting function between the the BAM experts for safety in production, storage and use of hydrogen.

One research focus is the storage of hydrogen in composite pressure vessel (CPV) gas storage systems. The methodological basis is provided by experimental investigations. These are supplemented by numerical simulation methods for load-bearing capacity (FEM) as well as for statistical strength distribution (MCS). With this background, we develop advanced assessment principles that form the basis for our advice to legislators and in standardisation.

Approval according to transparent regulations with the greatest possible worldwide acceptance and the guarantee of safety in operation are the central prerequisites for the success of every new design - from the point of view of manufacturers and operators of gas storage systems.

further information

Dr.-Ing. Georg Mair, Division Tanks for Dangerous Goods and Accident Mechanics, Bundesanstalt für Materialforschung und -prüfung (BAM)

Contact Dr.-Ing. Georg Mair

Head of Safety of Gas Storage Systems

Phone +49 30 8104-1350