Regasification & Storage
REGASIFICATION & STORAGE
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Once the LNG arrives at your facility, our expertise in regasification comes into play. Our cutting-edge regasification technology ensures that the liquefied natural gas is efficiently converted back into its gaseous form, ready for immediate use in your energy infrastructure. Furthermore, we offer a range of storage solutions tailored to your specific needs. Whether on-site storage tanks or virtual pipelines, we've got you covered.
To transport and store natural gas in its liquid form, it is cooled to extremely low temperatures, around -162°C (-260°F). At this point, it becomes a liquid with a much higher energy density, making transporting over long distances easier and more economical. However, once at its destination, LNG needs to be converted back into its gaseous state through a process known as regasification before it can be utilized.
LNG REGASIFICATION
LNG regasification converts LNG back into its gaseous state, suitable for distribution and consumption. There are several methods of achieving this, each with its advantages and suitability for different scenarios:
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1. Ambient Air Vaporizers
These vaporizers use the surrounding air to heat the LNG. The LNG flows through a series of finned tubes, and the ambient air is blown over them, causing the LNG to vaporize and return to its gaseous form. These vaporizers are simple and cost-effective but may require a more significant footprint due to their reliance on external air.
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2. Open Rack Vaporizers (ORVs)
ORVs are one of the most common and traditional regasification methods. They use seawater or fresh water as a heat exchange medium to warm the LNG and convert it into gas. ORVs are relatively simple, cost-effective, and easy to maintain. However, they have limitations on the regasification rate and may be affected by the water temperature.
3. Submerged Combustion Vaporizers (SCVs)
SCVs burn natural gas or other fuels in a submerged combustion chamber. The heat generated by combustion is transferred to the surrounding LNG, vaporizing it into gas. SCVs offer higher regasification rates and can be independent of external water conditions. However, they consume some of the gas they regasify, which can be a disadvantage.
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4. Floating Storage Regasification Units (FSRUs)
FSRUs are floating facilities that combine LNG storage and regasification capabilities. These vessels are moored near the shore, and LNG is offloaded from carriers into onboard storage tanks. Regasification is performed on the vessel, and the converted gas is sent ashore through pipelines. FSRUs are highly flexible, allowing for rapid deployment and relocation as needed, making them an attractive option for temporary or seasonal demand.
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5. LNG Regasification Terminals
Fixed onshore regasification terminals comprise storage tanks, equipment, and associated infrastructure. They are often used for large-scale, long-term LNG supply contracts, providing a reliable source of natural gas to the local market.
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LNG STORAGE SOLUTIONS
In addition to regasification, the storage of LNG is a crucial aspect of the supply chain. LNG is stored in special tanks designed to keep it at cryogenic temperatures. There are several types of LNG storage solutions:
1. Above-Ground Storage Tanks
These are large, double-walled tanks with high-quality insulation to maintain the extremely low temperatures required to keep LNG liquid. Above-ground tanks are commonly used in onshore facilities and provide easy access for maintenance.
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2. In-Ground Storage Tanks
These tanks are buried underground, offering better space utilization and protection from external elements. In-ground storage is commonly used in onshore facilities and can blend in with the surrounding environment.
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3. Full Containment Tanks
Full containment tanks have an inner and outer steel wall with a layer of insulation in between. They provide enhanced safety and are designed to withstand extreme weather conditions and external events.
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