 |
 |
Introducing the Matrix
by Karen Miller, National Hydrogen Association
The DOE Hydrogen Codes & Standards Coordinating Committee (HCSCC) has been working with the National Hydrogen Association, Society for Automotive Engineering, American Petroleum Institute, National Evaluation Services, and others to identify the existing codes and standards relevant to hydrogen energy technologies, as well as those under development. By putting this information in the form of a matrix, the HCSCC hopes to present the applicable codes and standards in a way that allows the user to identify requirements by application, and allows the HCSCC to identify gaps – areas where no applicable code or standard activity is underway.
Let me begin by saying that this task is not straightforward. Many of the ongoing activities are moving quite rapidly. Therefore, please be advised that this matrix is a living document. It will never be “final.” In addition, although the HCSCC has sought input from a large number of sources, we recognize that we don’t have a complete picture. This matrix is a rough draft. It is being presented for three reasons. First, the matrix has been requested by many organizations – and now that many people know it exists there is naturally interest in seeing it. Second, even in its current incomplete form, it may be useful to the hydrogen community. Third, and most important at this stage, we need your help in improving it. If you notice any inaccuracies, please send them to Karen Miller at kmiller@ttcorp.com. If you have additional codes and standards to be included, please send as much information as you can to Karen, such as the organization doing the work, a contact person, a summary of the scope of the effort, etc.
The HCSCC hopes that this matrix will eventually include all known codes and standards activities relevant to each application shown on the matrix. It will include a short description of the document (to help the user determine if it applies), status of the effort, how to order the document once published, and who to contact to get involved or to get more information.
The matrix currently focuses on codes and standards. A new section is being added to include other highly relevant activities, in order to complete the picture. For example, pertinent regulations will be added, such as DOT regulations for transporting hydrogen-related devices, European regulations for hydrogen vehicles, United Nations regulations, and others that are appropriate will be added. In addition, the matrix will include pertinent national codes and standards from other countries. This is especially important where national differences must be understood in order to produce hydrogen energy systems that can be used internationally.
The matrix will also include a primer, describing what it is and what it is not. This will include definitions for codes, standards, and regulations.
So on behalf of the HCSCC, I hope that you take this draft in the spirit in which it is being presented, a collaborative attempt to put usable information on hydrogen-related codes and standards in the hands of those who need it – sooner rather than later. I encourage updates and comments to improve the draft. Please email them to kmiller@ttcorp.com so that the HCSCC can address each one in a timely way. Without further ado, here is the matrix. Enjoy!
|
