Optimal Design of Cryogenic Insulation System for Large Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) Storage Tanks Based on Operation Factors

CNOOC Gas & Power Group Co., Ltd., Beijing, 100028, P. R. China

^* Corresponding author’s e-mail: yangfan5@cnooc.com.cn

Abstract

Liquefied natural gas (LNG), as a recognized clean energy, has seen a rapid increase in global consumption in recent years. As the core equipment of the LNG receiving terminal, the large LNG storage tanks, its’ cryogenic insulation system design is particularly important. The insulation system is mainly used to maximize the control of the daily evaporation of cold storage tanks, so as to achieve long-term storage of LNG in the tank. Its design is particularly important. At present, the internal design of the industry often only considers the construction conditions, without comprehensive consideration of operation, maintenance and other full-life cycle conditions. This paper analyzes and optimizes the design of the insulation system of large LNG storage tanks from the aspects of the performance of the insulation material itself, the construction period, pre-cooling start-up, operation and maintenance and other comprehensive operating factors. And taking the 30,000 m³ LNG storage tanks as an example, through the analysis and comparison of some columns, obtained the optimal daily evaporation rate requirements of the insulation system, which can be used as a reference for the design of LNG projects during the construction period.