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LNG TRANSFER SYSTEM

The recent extension of the LNG industry has resulted in the development of marine LNG facilities and systems that differ from traditional system design. Today, offshore LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas) loading and offloading transfer systems for marine hose include technologies that enable the transfer of LNG from shore-to-ship, from ship-to-ship and allow bunkering operations.

Aspects such as reducing spillage, using an excellent support system, efficiency in the transfer of LNG and the use of advanced technology come in handy when selecting a suitable LNG Transfer System. LNG is supplied from the carriers to re-gasification vessels or offloaded from the floating LNG production containers to LNG carriers. The transfer process has to be performed under offshore weather conditions.

Marine Hose System

The transfer system for an offshore hose is based on the existing practices that are employed in the crude-oil offloading system. A marine hose system includes the use of hose reels that are located at a high position to allow configuration to the BLS. LNG marine hose system ensures maximum transfer with optimised operability, safety and reliability. The distance between the vessels is just about eight meters and allows substantial wave heights of up to 4.5 meters, while the loading operation continues at the height of 5.5 meters.

LNG Ship-to-Ship Transfer

Also known as LNG STS, LNG Ship-to-Ship Transfer is the transmission of LNG from one LNG vessel to another via an LNG tanker. It involves transferring cargo via flexible hoses while two ships are held in position. The operation has recently gained momentum with the advent of FLNG (floating LNG) production. STS may also be between LNGC (LNG carriers) and LNGRV (LNG Re-gasification vessels Unit). LNG STS provides an economical way of transferring cargo as the ship doesn't have to berth at the port, which eliminates berthing costs and reduces the time spent docking and mooring. The process, however, requires continuous monitoring and assessment of risk to ensure safety and efficiency. The latest technological advances for LNG ship-to-ship transfer provide a safe point in the system that allows the crew to identify a problem in the event of an emergency.

Applications of Ship to Shore Transfer

The system is an ideal disaster response technique i.e. where infrastructure has been destroyed, and goods and supplies need to be transported to relief areas. Other ship-to-shore applications include:

• Areas with shallow waters • Congested ports • Where there are no docks

Bunkering Operations

LNG Bunkering operations involve the transfer of fuel from an individual source to an LNG fuelled ship. The most common LNG bunkering method is the TTS (Truck-to-Ship) technique that allows operational flexibility with minimal capital requirements. All bunkering modes ensure safe and successful operations through:

• Risk assessment and safety management • Obtaining a permit from relevant authorities • Training personnel aboard and offshore

How to Minimise Risk During LNG Transfer

All LNG transfer systems should be safe, operational and efficient. The systems should protect the ship, hoses and equipment in the area from spillage. As a consequence, the risk of injury to the personnel and the immediate vicinity is minimised, and the risk of contamination to the environment is kept minimal. It requires a continuous process of risk management and risk assessment for all LNG transfer systems: offshore systems, STS, ship-to-shore and bunkering operations.

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