Insulation use in LNG facilities is often solely considered for thermal performance, but many fail to consider other elements critical to project success, that insulation can impact.
These other factors can expose a project to immense unnecessary risk.
It is paramount that an LNG facility operates safely, efficiently and profitably. The challenge of meeting proper standards can be complicated with the many industrial processes found within a single plant, the extreme process temperatures being controlled, and quite often, the harsh weather environments encountered. On top of this, facilities must contend with the global demand for LNG products alongside a desire to improve efficiency and mitigate environmental impact. Utilizing the proper insulation solution tailored to a project’s needs will enhance the facility’s ability to deliver a project on time and within budget, while also ensuring safety and structural integrity.
For over 20 years, Aspen Aerogels® thermal insulation products have been optimized to meet these challenges. Specified and installed in thousands of LNG applications around the globe, Aspen’s solutions help drive profitability to owners, engineers and contractors through top-tier design, construction and operation.
In recent years, Thailand-based LNG transmission and storage company PTT LNG, successfully built three lines at two separate terminals in Thailand. Risk mitigation was critical to each phase of these projects.
Aspen and PTT’s relationship began in 2013 after PTT discovered both severe icing on the existing Terminal 1 insulation and rapidly occurring CUI. This was resulting in extensive downtime, high maintenance costs and lower yields. Aspen Aerogels’ Cryogel® Z insulation was installed and was so effective, it was the only insulation to be used in cold work on Terminal 1 going forward.
When PTT began the design of its second terminal, Aspen’s Cryogel Z insulation was top of mind. It had already been used on the first terminal’s jetty lines and onshore process piping, where its performance spoke for itself — terminal integrity had been secured and yields had improved. With over 1 million yards of insulation required for the second terminal, the risk was too high to specify the wrong insulation system, making Aspen the go-to for the construction of PTT’s Terminal 2.
"Utilizing the proper insulation solution will enhance the facility’s ability to deliver a project on time and within budget."
The design challenges for Terminal 2 were significant, so the specification of Cryogel Z insulation became critical to the project design. Custom fabrication of Cryogel Z insulation in the design enabled PTT LNG to receive its first LNG shipment in late 2022, on time and within budget.
Weather, labor, terrain, and unforeseen global events are often uncontrollable variables that present LNG facilities with operational risks and challenges. PTT’s use of Cryogel Z enabled the contractor to address several of those risks associated with an aggressive construction schedule and the immense physical length of the jetty. PTT LNG continues to be highly satisfied with the operational and maintenance benefits provided, as well as its improved yields.
Proper insulation can help de-risk a project’s schedule, budget and quality. Aspen works closely with EPC firms to provide proper insulation specifications and guidelines, delivering protection against both heat and heat loss/icing. Cryogel Z insulation has been specified and used in almost 50 major LNG projects around the world, from liquification to regasification and more.
Whether you’re responsible for design, construction or maintenance, insulation can determine the overall success of the operation. Consequently, remember to consider insulation solutions first, or risk the project finishing last.
For more information, visit aerogel.com or call (508) 691-1111.
