Working in collaboration with Cadent, the UK’s largest gas distribution network, the students developed and tested a prototype pipe inspection gauge (PIG). The device is designed to travel through methane pipelines and apply a hydrogen-resistant lining to the interior surfaces – addressing one of the key challenges in transitioning the gas grid to hydrogen: preventing hydrogen embrittlement in steel infrastructure.
The EnerHy project brought together students from Loughborough University, Cranfield University, and the University of Strathclyde, combining expertise across chemistry, materials science, robotics, and control systems.
Dr Jonathan Wilson, Lecturer in Sustainable Energy Systems at Loughborough University and project lead, said: “We gave the students a deliberately tough challenge. They had to work across disciplines to develop both the protective coating and a device to apply it inside active methane pipelines.”
Dr Roy Moobola, Engineering and Integrity Manager – Hydrogen at Cadent, added: “We’re exploring how to adapt our network for hydrogen, and this kind of innovation is exactly what we need. It was inspiring to see how committed the students were. These are the engineers who will shape the future of our industry.”
The students not only identified suitable coating materials but also built and demonstrated a working prototype of the PIG, applying the coating in real time during EnerHy’s first research conference.
Dani Strickland, Professor of Electrical Power Engineering at Loughborough University and Director of EnerHy, said: “One of the most distinctive features of EnerHy is that students get the best of both worlds – independent research and hands-on experience tackling real industry challenges. This project shows how well they’ve worked together under pressure and developed the skills they’ll need as future net zero leaders.”
The PIG prototype has also created a unique opportunity to connect with industry and spark wider interest in the future of hydrogen infrastructure through public engagement. Members of the project team will present the prototype at the East Midlands Hydrogen Summit at HyMarnham on 16 October.