DNV Introduces Enhanced KFX Software for Accurate CO₂, Ammonia, and Hydrogen Risk Modeling

DNV Introduces Enhanced KFX Software for Accurate CO₂, Ammonia, and Hydrogen Risk Modeling

(IN BRIEF) DNV’s new KFX release enhances CFD simulations with specialized models for CO₂, ammonia, and hydrogen, enabling precise predictions of dry-ice formation, spray absorption, and explosion dynamics. Developed with Equinor, TotalEnergies, Vår Energi, and Horisont Energi, the update supports safer, cost-efficient CCUS and hydrogen projects through accurate risk assessments and optimized safety designs.

(PRESS RELEASE) BÆRUM, 25-Jun-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — DNV has unveiled the latest version of its KFX computational fluid dynamics software, developed in partnership with major energy companies through three joint industry projects. KFX delivers detailed simulations of gas dispersion, fires, and explosions—capabilities essential for safely deploying low-carbon technologies such as carbon capture, utilization and storage (CCUS), hydrogen, and ammonia. By accurately modeling fluid behavior and accident scenarios, the software underpins installation design, consequence mitigation, and quantitative risk assessments, helping operators reduce hazards and unnecessary project costs.

The new release adds specialized consequence models for carbon dioxide, ammonia, and hydrogen, each reflecting the unique thermodynamic properties of these fluids. For CO₂, KFX can now predict dry-ice formation and sublimation effects on gas clouds, informing more precise safety-zone planning. Its multi-component spray model simulates ammonia absorption in water droplets—vital for evaluating water-curtain effectiveness—while enhanced dispersion, combustion, and radiation modules improve hydrogen risk assessments. The EXSIM gas-explosion solver has also been upgraded to better forecast hydrogen blast impacts.

Developed over four years with Equinor, TotalEnergies, Vår Energi, and Horisont Energi, these features exemplify DNV’s collaborative approach. “Solving the energy transition’s toughest challenges demands industry cooperation,” says Kenneth Vareide, CEO of DNV Digital Solutions. “By combining our expertise with leading operators, we’ve translated complex physics into scalable software that supports safe CCUS, hydrogen, and ammonia projects.” Trond Evanger, Head of CFD Solutions, adds that KFX’s advanced modeling “creates more accurate data for critical decision-making.” For over three decades, DNV has refined KFX alongside firms like ConocoPhillips, Eni, Gassco, and GRTgaz, underlining its enduring commitment to safer, more efficient energy systems.

About DNV

DNV is the independent expert in risk management and assurance, operating in more than 100 countries. Through its broad experience and deep expertise DNV advances safety and sustainable performance, sets industry benchmarks, and inspires and invents solutions.

Whether assessing a new ship design, optimizing the performance of a wind farm, analyzing sensor data from a gas pipeline, or certifying a food company’s supply chain, DNV enables its customers and their stakeholders to make critical decisions with confidence.

Driven by its purpose, to safeguard life, property, and the environment, DNV helps tackle the challenges and global transformations facing its customers and the world today and is a trusted voice for many of the world’s most successful and forward-thinking companies.

DNV is a leading provider of software and digital solutions for a safe, efficient and sustainable energy supply. These solutions are used to manage risk and performance of critical infrastructure and assets such as offshore structures, wind turbines, solar farms, electric grids, pipelines, processing plants, and more. As new technologies emerge to transform industries and enable the energy transition, DNV engages with customers to develop digital trust within and between organizations.

Learn more at www.dnv.com

Media Contacts:

Cathrine Korshamn
Marketing and Communications Manager, Brand & Employee Engagement
Phone: +4793694911
Cathrine.Korshamn@dnv.com

Koheila Molazemi
Product Line Director Plant, Digital Solutions
Phone: +4748192183
Koheila.Molazemi@dnv.com

Jessica Pertolaw
Marketing and Communications Manager, Plant Software
Jessica.Pertolaw@dnv.com

SOURCE: DNV