DNV, a Norway-headquartered international accredited registrar and classification society, on October 24, 2022, announced it was taking up a leadership role in three parallel Joint Industry Projects (JIPs) to improve the existing KFX software. This software simulates gas dispersion, fire, and explosions. As a result, it increases the safety standards when deploying energy transition solutions.

Since the energy transition relies on many technologies, which can pose a hazard, including the capture and storage, and the utilization of hydrogen and ammonia, there is a great need to prioritize safety when using these technologies on a large scale.

The fluid commutation dynamics (CFD) of the KFX software serves as a simulant of the liquids and vapour clouds and enables the formation of dry ice whenever accidents occur. These simulations are utilized in designating installations and mitigating the consequences.

"DNV has, in recent years, been involved in CFD simulation software development projects. The joint industry projects for CCS, hydrogen, and ammonia safety strengthen our commitment to the energy transition," said Kenneth Vareide, CEO of Digital Solutions at DNV.

In the first Joint Industry Project, DNV is partnering with Equinor and Totalenergies in a collaboration that focuses on CO2. This JIP studies the consequences of accidental release per the surrounding environmental conditions, such as terrain and wind, combined with the dry-ice formation and its impact on dispersion.

The second JIP entails Equinor and DNV teaming up to focus on hydrogen and the effect of low storage temperatures, dispersion, fires, and explosions.

In the third JIP, Equinor, Vår Energi, Horisont Energi, and DNV work together to develop mitigation measures for ammonia safety. This project will ensure the firms analyze alternative steps to mitigate the consequences of high toxic levels.

"DNV is committed to close collaboration with customers in hydrogen safety, CO2, ammonia, and liquefied natural gas, enabling the accelerated energy transition journey," said Trond Evanger, Head of the Section of CFD Solutions at DNV.