Blackhall Engineering: Hydrogen Ready Since 1966

Since 1966, Blackhall has been at the forefront of hydrogen-ready technology, showcasing a long-standing commitment to innovation and technical expertise. This extensive history, from pioneering the use of advanced materials in valve design to developing cutting-edge, zero-emission technologies, has positioned the company as a leader in hydrogen valve solutions for various industries.

Over the decades, Blackhall has continually evolved its approach to meet the growing demands of hydrogen applications, especially in storage, transport, and energy sectors, while maintaining a steadfast focus on safety, efficiency, and reliability.

Foundations in Cryogenic Expertise: The 1960s

Blackhall's journey towards hydrogen readiness began in 1966 when the company became involved with the Cryogenics Society of America. This marked the start of its deep expertise in managing cryogenic liquids like hydrogen and helium, substances that require precise handling at extremely low temperatures. Hydrogen, with a boiling point of -252.87°C, and helium, even colder at -268.93°C, pose significant challenges in terms of storage and transport. The ability to maintain the stability of these gases requires valves designed with meticulous precision and materials capable of withstanding such extreme conditions.

In 1969, Blackhall achieved a significant breakthrough by pioneering the use of DuPont Kel-F (PCTFE) in valves. Kel-F, a polymer known for its excellent stability at low temperatures, was crucial in resisting hydrogen embrittlement – a process by which metals become brittle due to exposure to hydrogen, posing serious risks in industrial applications. This pioneering use of advanced materials allowed Blackhall to demonstrate a deep understanding of the challenges associated with cryogenic valves, particularly those required for hydrogen. This same year, the company developed its first cryogenic globe and check valves for hydrogen and helium, laying the foundation for what would become a core area of expertise: designing valves capable of handling hydrogen under the high pressures required for its safe storage and transport.

The Expansion of Hydrogen Valve Solutions: The 1970s

By 1970, Blackhall had taken further strides in the field by becoming a supplier of helium valves for Petrocarbon Developments (Costain) in Poland. This project, which required advanced valve technology, showcased Blackhall's capability to apply its knowledge of cryogenics and valve design to industrial gas applications. The experience gained during this time was pivotal, as it strengthened the company’s ability to design and manufacture valves suitable for a wide range of industrial applications involving hydrogen and other cryogenic gases.

Pioneering Innovations: The 1980s and 1990s

Blackhall's pursuit of innovation continued into the 1980s with the launch of its extended bonnet valve range in 1985. These valves were specially designed for cold box applications, where hydrogen is often liquefied and stored. The extended bonnet design allows for easier maintenance without disturbing the cryogenic environment, reducing downtime and ensuring safety in hydrogen liquefaction processes. This development further solidified Blackhall’s reputation for designing highly specialised valves suited for complex cryogenic applications.

A key moment for Blackhall came in 1990 when the company supplied hydrogen valves to the European Space Agency for the Ariane space rocket. This project was notable for its extreme operational conditions, requiring valves that could function in high-vacuum, low-temperature, and high-pressure environments. To meet these demands, Blackhall designed valves using ultra-lightweight, high-strength alloys such as titanium and Inconel, materials known for their durability and performance under such extreme conditions. This project highlighted Blackhall’s ability to deliver hydrogen valve solutions for the aerospace industry, where safety, precision, and reliability are of paramount importance.

Entry into the Aerospace Sector and Beyond: The 2000s

The 2000s saw Blackhall continue to expand its expertise in hydrogen valve technology. In 2004, the company provided valve solutions for Lockheed Martin's Skylaunch project, furthering its involvement in aerospace and defence applications. The demand for hydrogen valves in these sectors requires not only superior performance under extreme conditions but also zero-emission technologies to prevent leaks – a critical safety measure when dealing with hydrogen.

Blackhall’s acquisition of Shaw Valves in 2007 was a transformative moment in the company’s history. This acquisition brought advanced bellows-sealed, zero-emission technologies into Blackhall's portfolio, allowing the company to enhance its hydrogen valve designs further. These technologies, particularly in the context of hydrogen applications, are essential for preventing leaks and ensuring that hydrogen can be stored and transported safely. The incorporation of bellows seals and high-integrity gasket designs significantly reduced the risk of emissions, which is crucial for hydrogen infrastructure as the world moves towards cleaner energy solutions

Global Expansion and Technological Leadership: The 2010s and Beyond

In 2010, Blackhall entered the Chinese market with large bore, vacuum-jacketed, bellows-sealed valves. These valves were designed to prevent heat ingress and offer superior thermal insulation, reducing hydrogen losses during transport and storage. The ability to maintain the temperature and integrity of hydrogen over long distances is crucial for industrial applications, and Blackhall's expertise in vacuum-jacketed technologies allowed it to provide solutions that met the needs of large-scale hydrogen projects.

Blackhall’s commitment to advancing hydrogen technology continued into the 2020s. In 2020, the company launched high-pressure bellows-sealed control valves for Air Products in La Porte, Texas. This project represented a significant advancement in hydrogen distribution and storage solutions, further proving Blackhall's capability to meet the growing global demand for hydrogen infrastructure.

Conclusion

Since its early involvement in cryogenics in 1966, Blackhall has demonstrated a sustained commitment to innovation and technical excellence in hydrogen valve technology. From pioneering the use of advanced materials like DuPont Kel-F in the 1960s to incorporating zero-emission technologies from Shaw Valves in the 2000s, Blackhall has continually evolved its product offerings to meet the demands of the hydrogen industry.

The company's expertise in cryogenics, precision engineering, and advanced sealing technologies has made it a key player in the hydrogen sector, providing solutions for industries ranging from aerospace to energy and industrial gas applications. As the world transitions towards cleaner energy sources, Blackhall's long-standing experience and technical leadership in hydrogen valve technology will undoubtedly play a critical role in supporting the development of hydrogen infrastructure on a global scale.