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OISD STANDARD – 194

FOR RESTRICTED
CIRCULATION ONLY

STANDARD
FOR
THE STORAGE AND HANDLING
OF
LIQUEFIED NATURAL GAS (LNG)

OISD – STD –194

OIL INDUSTRY SAFETY DIRECTORATE


Government of India,
Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas,

Page I of 32
OISD STANDARD – 194

FOR RESTRICTED
CIRCULATION ONLY

STANDARD
FOR
THE STORAGE AND HANDLING
OF
LIQUEFIED NATURAL GAS (LNG)

Prepared by

FUNCTIONAL COMMITTEE

OIL INDUSTRY SAFETY DIRECTORATE


Government of India,
Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas,
NEW DELHI – 110 001.

II
NOTE

OISD (OIL INDUSTRY SAFETY DIRECTORATE) publications are


prepared for use in the Oil and Gas Industry under Ministry of Petroleum &
Natural Gas. These are the property of Ministry of Petroleum & Natural
Gas and shall not be reproduced or copied or loaned or exhibited to others
without written consent from OISD.

Though every effort has been made to assure the accuracy and
reliability of the data contained in these documents, OISD hereby
expressly disclaims any liability or responsibility for loss or damage
resulting from their use.

These documents are intended to supplement rather than replace


the prevailing statutory requirements.

III
FOREWORD

Oil industry in India is more than 100 years old handling variety of hydrocarbon
material, natural gas, crude oil and petroleum products. With the technological
advances and need for transportation of bulk energy carrier and natural gas over the
years a variety of practices have been in vogue because of collaboration/association
with different foreign companies and governments. Standardisation in design, operation
and maintenance practices was hardly in existence at a national level. This lack of
uniformity, coupled with feed back from some serious accidents that occurred in the
recent past in India and abroad, emphasised the need for the industry to review the
existing state of art in designing, operating and maintaining oil and gas installations.
With this in view, the Ministry of Petroleum & Natural Gas in 1986 constituted a
Safety Council assisted by the Oil Industry Safety Directorate (OISD) staffed from within
the industry in formulating and implementing a series of self regulatory measures aimed
at removing obsolescence, standardising and upgrading the existing standards to
ensure safer operations. Accordingly, OISD constituted a number of functional
committees comprising of experts nominated from the industry to draw up standards
and guidelines on various subjects.
The present document on the storage and handling of Liquefied Natural Gas
(LNG) Terminals was prepared by Functional Committee constituted amongst the
nominated members by the industry. This document was prepared based on the
accumulated knowledge and experience of industry members and the various national
and international codes and practices.
This document will be reviewed periodically for improvements based on the
additional experience and better understanding.
Suggestions from industry members may be addressed to :
The Coordinator, Committee on
‘Storage And Handling Of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG)’
OIL INDUSTRY SAFETY DIRECTORATE,
2nd floor, “Kailash”, 26, Kasturba Gandhi Marg, New Delhi – 110 001.

IV
FUNCTIONAL COMMITTEE

ON

STANDARD FOR
THE STORAGE AND HANDLING
OF
LIQUEFIED NATURAL GAS (LNG)

LIST OF MEMBERS

Sl. Name Organisation Position in


No. Committee
1 Sh. R.Rajaraman EIL. Leader

2 Sh. V.S. Sadana OISD Co-ordinator

3 Sh. R.K.Ghosh ONGC Member

4 Sh. N.Haran BPCL Member

5 Sh.MVR Someswarudu GAIL Member

6 Sh. Lakshman Venugopal HPCL Member

7 Sh. C.Chattopadhyay IOCL Member

V
OISD-STD-194

TABLE OF CONTENTS

S.NO. SUBJECT PAGE NO


1.0 Introduction 1
2.0 Scope 2
3.0 Definitions 2
4.0 Terminal Process System 5
4.1 Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) 5
4.2 LNG Receiving Terminal 5
4.3 Receiving Section 5
4.4 Storage Section 7
4.5 Piping 8
4.6 Boil off and Re-liquefaction 8
4.7 LNG Pumping 9
4.8 Send out Section 9
4.9 LNG Cold Recovery 11
5.0 Terminal Layout 12
5.1 Philosophy 12
5.2 Basic Information 12
5.3 Blocks 13
5.4 Roads 13
5.5 Location 13
5.6 Erection and Maintenance 13
5.7 Future Expansion 13
5.8 General Considerations 13
5.9 LNG Tanks and Processing Equipment Spacing 14
6.0 LNG Storage Tank 15
6.1 Classification of storage system 15
6.2 Selection Criteria 16
6.3 Basic Design Considerations 17
6.4 Instrumentation and Process Control for Tanks 20
7.0 Insulation 21
7.1 Container Insulation 21
8.0 Fire Protection, Safety and Emergency Systems 22
8.1 General 22
8.2 Ignition Source Control 23
8.3 Emergency Shutdown System 23
8.4 Fire and Leak Detection System 24
8.5 Fire Protection System 24
8.6 Fire Control Equipment 25
8.7 Personnel Safety 25
9.0 Ship Tanker Receiving and Port Facility 26
10.0 References 28

VI
1.0 INTRODUCTION applicable standards developed by the Indian
Industry over the years.
1.1 LNG trade is more than 30 years old, and
the technology associated with LNG projects
is considered proven and mature. This applies 1.6 This standard provides for safety and
to all the components of LNG chain – Gas design aspects of all the major components of
Liquefaction, transportation, receipt, storage LNG receiving terminal facility including
and re-gasification facilities. unloading, storage and distribution of LNG.
This standard also outlines the operating
1.2 The LNG industry over the years has practices for protection of persons & property
gained experience in design and operation of and provides guidelines to all the persons
LNG chain and has been updating design and concerned with the operation of LNG
plant safety aspects. receiving, storage, regasification and other
associated facilities.
1.3 Indian Petroleum industry over the years
has also gained experience in design and 1.7 A number of standards exist to take care
operations of gas processing and petroleum of design and other aspects related to
handling and has been updating design and operations and safety of hydrocarbon
plant safety aspects. industry including operating and design
experience of gas processing and petroleum
1.4 LNG receiving terminals are being handling in Indian context and experience of
developed in India. OISD under the aegis of handling LNG elsewhere in the world. It is
the MOP & NG has set up a committee to recognised, this standard dealing with design
evolve guidelines on unloading, storage and and operating practices for LNG handling
distribution of LNG. LNG import would also may differ from those specified in the
involve host of other auxiliary facilities available standards.
including fire & safety aspects. All these are
intended to be covered under the present 1.8 In the interest of safety, it is important
scope. that persons engaged in handling LNG,
understand the properties of this product and
1.5 In doing so, the Committee has utilised that they be thoroughly trained in safe
the experiences of operations of oil and gas practices for its handling.
installations in India, the available
international standards on LNG and

Page 1 of 32
2.0 SCOPE methods for maintaining its tightness or is
impervious by nature.
2.1 This standard lays down minimum
requirements of layout within the plant Container, Pre-stressed Concrete :
boundary for Unloading, Storage, A concrete container is considered to be pre-
Vaporisation, Transfer & Handling stressed when the stresses created by the
facilities for LNG Terminals. different loading or loading combinations do not
exceed allowable stresses.
2.2 This standard covers safety in
design and operational aspects of process Deriming :
systems, above ground tanks, Deriming, synonymous with defrosting or de-
vaporisation facilities, ship shore icing refers to the removal, by heating and
interlock, berthing conditions for the evaporation, sublimation, or solution, of
ship, receiving facilities including jetty accumulated constituents that form solids, such
and port. as water, carbon dioxide, etc. from the low-
temperature process equipment.
2.3 This standard also to some extent
covers engineering considerations in Design Pressure :
design and installations including fire The pressure used in the design of equipment, a
protection and safety systems. container, or a vessel for the purpose of
determining the minimum permissible thickness
3.0 DEFINITIONS or physical characteristics of its different parts.
Where applicable, static head shall be included
BOG: in the design pressure to determine the thickness
Boil off gas – The gas produced in the of any specific part.
process of vaporisation of a very small
quantity of refrigerated liquid by heat
conducted through the insulation Dyke:
surrounding the storage tank. A structure used to establish an impounding
area.
Bunkering :
The loading of a ship’s bunker or tank ERC :
with liquid fuel for use in connection Emergency Release Coupler – The coupler
with propulsion of auxiliary equipment. fitted in each hard arm together with quick –
acting flanking valves so that a dry-break
Container : release can be achieved in emergency
A vessel for storing liquefied natural gas. situations.
Such a vessel may be above, partially
below, or totally below ground and may ERS :
consist of an inner and outer tank. Emergency Release System

Container, Frozen Ground : ESD :


A container in which the maximum Emergency Shutdown System – A system that
liquid level is below the normal safely and effectively stops whole plant or
surrounding grade and that is constructed individual units before an unrecoverable
essentially of natural materials, such as incidents occurs.
earth and rock, is dependent upon the
freezing of water-saturated earth Failsafe :
materials, and that has appropriate Design features which will maintain or result in
a safe operating conditions in the event of a

2
malfunction or failure of power, LNG :
instrument air, components or control An abbreviation for “liquefied natural gas”
devices.
LNG Facility :
Fired Equipment : LNG facility is a group of one or more
Any equipment in which the combustion units/facilities i.e. unloading, storage, receiving
of fuels takes place. Included among facilities for LNG, associated systems like
others are fired boilers, fired heaters, utilities, blow down, flare system, fire water
internal combustion engines, certain storage and fire water network, control room
integral heated vaporisers, the primary and administration service buildings like
heat source for remote heated vaporisers, workshop, fire station, laboratory, canteen etc.
gas-fired oil foggers, fired regeneration
heaters and flared vent stacks. Maximum Allowable Working Pressure:
The maximum gauge pressure permissible at the
Fixed-Length Dip Tube : top of an equipment, a container or a pressure
A pipe that has a fixed open end fitted vessel while operating at design temperature.
inside a container at a designated
elevation that is intended to show a Primary Components :
liquid level. Primary components include those whose failure
would permit leakage of the LNG being stored,
Hazardous Fluid : those exposed to a temperature between (-510C)
LNG or liquid or gas that is flammable and (-1680C) and those subject to thermal shock.
or toxic . Primary components include, but are not limited
to the following parts of a single-wall tank or of
Hazardous Liquid : the inner tank in a double-wall tank; shell plates,
Means liquid that is flammable or toxic bottom plates, roof plates, knuckle plates,
including LNG. compression rings, shell stiffeners, manways,
and nozzles including reinforcement, shell
Ignition Source : anchors, pipe tubing, forging, and bolting.
Any item or substance capable of an These are the parts of LNG containers that are
energy release of type and magnitude stressed to a significant level.
sufficient to ignite any flammable
mixture of gases or vapours that could Process Plant :
occur at the site. The systems required to condition, liquefy or
vaporise natural gas in all areas of application.
Impounding Area :
An area that may be defined through the Secondary Components :
use of dykes or the topography at the site Secondary components include those which will
for the purpose of containing any not be stressed to a significant level, those
accidental spill of LNG or flammable whose failure will not result in leakage of the
refrigerants. LNG being stored or those exposed to the boil
off gas and having a design metal temperature of
Liquefied Natural Gas : (-51°C) or higher.
A fluid in the liquid state composed
predominantly of methane (CH4) and Shall :
which may contain minor quantities of Indicates a mandatory requirement.
ethane, propane, nitrogen, or other
components normally found in natural Should :
gas. Indicates a recommendation or that which is
advised but not mandatory.

3
sections or two different materials that are not
Storage Tank : amenable to usual welding or joining
A container for storing a fluid. techniques.

Transfer Area : Transfer System :


That portion of an LNG plant containing Includes transfer piping and cargo transfer
piping systems where LNG, flammable system.
liquids, or flammable refrigerants are
introduced into or removed from the Vaporisation :
facility, such as ship unloading areas, or Means an addition of thermal energy for
where piping connections are routinely changing a liquid or semi-solid to vapour or
connected or disconnected. Transfer gaseous state.
areas do not include product sampling
devices or permanent plant piping. Vaporiser :
Means a heat transfer facility designed to
Transition Joint : introduce thermal energy in a controlled
A connector fabricated of two or more manner for changing a liquid or semisolid to
metals used to effectively join piping vapour or gaseous state.

4
4.0 TERMINAL PROCESS SYSTEM Weight 17.50 17.40
Gross Calorific value > 9,000 kcal/ sm3
4.1 LIQUEFIED NATURAL GAS (LNG)
4.1.2 Liquefied natural gas chain consists of
4.1.1 Natural gas is liquefied at a
temperature in the range of at (-) 1620C to - Production of natural gas from fields and
(-)1680C and atmospheric pressure to transportation to liquefaction plant.
facilitate transportation in the form of LNG
in cryogenic tankers across the sea. After - Natural Gas Liquefaction Plant.
vaporisation the same can be used to meet the
gas demand. LNG is a colourless, odourless, - Tankers for carrying LNG between the
low density and slightly viscous liquid. The plant & receiving terminal.
main characteristic of LNG is that its specific
volume is nearly 600 times that of natural gas - LNG receiving terminal in the consumer’s
in the gaseous state. Owing to this area.
characteristics, greater quantities can be
stored / transferred in liquid state than in 4.2 LNG RECEIVING TERMINAL :
gaseous phase.
The purpose of receiving terminal is to
4.1.2 Upon release from containment to the unload LNG tankers, store, re-gasify and
atmosphere , LNG will vaporise and release send it out through the pipeline transmission
gas which, at ambient temperature , will network. The LNG receiving terminal
have about 600 times the volume of liquid facilities are divided into three sections
vaporised. Generally at temperature below namely receiving, storage and send out
approximately (-112 °C), this gas is heavier sections.
than ambient air at (15.6 ° C). However as (Refer typical flow scheme at the Annexure
its temperature rises, it becomes lighter than – I)
the air.
 RECEIVING SECTION
Note : The critical temperature for methane
is (-) 1120 C . The predominant component  STORAGE SECTION
of LNG is methane and hence this value is
referred.  SEND OUT SECTION

In addition to the above, the terminal consists


Natural Gas Composition Range ( mole % ) of various utilities, flare system, fire fighting
facilities and other associated infrastructures.
COMPONENTS
4.3 RECEIVING SECTION
C1 92.80 90.80
The LNG tankers are moored and berthed
C2 4.70 3.20 along the jetty specially designed for LNG
handling. LNG is pumped out of the ship
C3 2.40 2.00 tanks to the land based storage with the help
C4 0.50 0.40 of unloading arms connected to the ship,
through an insulated cryogenic pipe.
C5 0.09 0.05
4.3.1 THE JETTY
N2 1.20 0.90

Molecular
5
The jetty consists of berthing facility, moved by hydraulic actuators. The
unloading arms and other associated connection of the arm end to the ship
facilities. crossovers flange shall be provided with a
special automatic ERC device.
4.3.2 BERTHS
ii) During emergency this automatic device
The number and size of the berths are will come into operation and de-coupling
determined by the quantity of LNG system gets activated.
delivered, the size of the ships, time intervals
between two ships & site conditions. The iii) Emergency Release System (ERS). Each
berths may be installed either parallel or unloading arm shall be fitted with an ERS
perpendicular to the bank at the end of the system, able to be interlinked to the ship’s
jetty depending on the water depth, ESD system. This system must operate in two
prevailing wind speed and the location of the stages ; the first stage stops LNG pumping
basin. and closes block valves in the pipelines; the
second stage entails automatic activation of
ii) The berth may include either simple the dry-break coupling at the ERC together
dolphins or sophisticated concrete platform with its quick-acting flanking valves. The ERS
which includes the unloading arms. Land System should conform to an accepted
access to the moored ships shall be provided. industry standard.
If necessary, a separate road may lead to the
berths in order to provide the crew with a iv) No drain shall be open to atmosphere.
free access to the ship. Provision should be given to collect the LNG
from the unloading arm to a closed system by
iii) Exclusion of ignition Sources. No way of providing blow down vessel or any
uncontrolled ignition source should be within other suitable arrangement.
a predetermined safe area, centred on the
LNG carrier’s cargo manifold. The minimum v) The size of the arms depends on the
area from which all ignition sources must be unloading flow rate. Usual sizes are 10” and
excluded should be determined from the 12” for LNG tankers upto 75,000 m3 capacity
design considerations and dispersion studies and 16” for 120,000 m3 and above capacity
envisaged in the risk analysis report. tankers.

iv) Mooring layout. The jetty should provide 4.3.2.3 General :


mooring points of a strength and in an array
which would permit all LNG carriers using i) General cargo, other than ships’ stores for
the terminal to be held alongside in all the LNG tanker, shall not be handled within
conditions of wind and currents. 30 m of the point of transfer connection
while LNG are being transferred through
v) Quick Release Hooks. All mooring points piping systems. Ship bunkering shall not be
should be equipped with quick release hooks. permitted during LNG unloading operations.
Multiple hook assemblies should be provided
at those points where multiple mooring lines ii) Vehicle traffic shall be prohibited on the
are deployed so that not more than one berth within 30 m of the loading and
mooring line is attached to a single hook. unloading manifold while transfer operations
are in progress. Warning signs or barricades
4.3.2.2 UNLOADING ARMS shall be used to indicate that transfer
operations are in progress.
i) Unloading arm consist of pipe length
connected to each other by swivel joints,

6
iii) Prior to transfer, the officer in charge of - To have additional line running parallel
vessel cargo transfer and the officer in charge - To have booster pump
of the shore terminal shall inspect their - Increase size of line
respective facilities to ensure that transfer
equipment is in the proper operating iii) The unloading line need to be kept in cold
condition. Following this inspection, they condition to avoid stress and cyclic fatigue
shall meet and determine the transfer due to frequent warm-up and cooling down
procedure, verify that adequate ship-to-shore operation. This is done by one of the
communications exist, and review emergency following methods.
procedures.
- Continuous circulation of LNG (LNG goes
iv) Interlocking between ship and terminal through the unloading line and sent back to
control room to be established and the the vaporisation section through a special
control of unloading operations shall be small diameter .line).
monitored from the terminal control room.
v) Terminal Security. An effective security - Alternatively two unloading lines are
regime should be in place to enforce the installed. When unloading is not taking
designated ignition exclusion zone and place, this loop is used for re-circulation for
prevent unauthorised entry of personnel into keeping the lines in chill down condition.
the terminal and jetty area, whether by land
or by sea. - Line is fully filled with LNG and the boil –
off formed is sent to the tank or to the
vi) Operating Limits. Operating criteria, vaporiser section.
expressed in terms of wind speed, wave
height and current should be established for 4.4 STORAGE SECTION
each jetty. Such limits should be developed
according to ship size, mooring restraint and The storage section consists of LNG storage
hard arm limits. Separate sets of limits should tanks, in-tank pumps, BOG system and re-
be established for (a) berthing, (b) stopping liquefaction facility.
cargo transfer, (c) hard arm disconnection
and (d) departure from the berth. 4.4.1 Storage Tank :

vii) The ships should be berthed in such way The primary function of storage is to receive,
that in case of emergency the ship can sail hold and stock LNG for providing continuous
out head on immediately. All other supply to the send out section. An LNG tank
instructions and procedures of Port is designed to ensure the following
Regulatory Authority are to be observed. functions :

4.3.2.4 UNLOADING LINE 4.4.1.1 LIQUID RETENTION

i) The unloading and transfer lines for LNG The storage tank shall be capable of
should have minimum number of flange withstanding the hydrostatic load of the
joints. Consideration should be given to liquid and low temperature of LNG. In order
provide cold sensors for flanges of size 200 to meet these conditions, cryogenic materials
mm and above as well as where there are such as low carbon austenitic stainless steels,
clusters of flanges. aluminium alloy, 9% Nickel ferritic steel,
Invar (36% Ni steel) and pre-stressed
ii) Length of the unloading line is to be kept concrete are generally used.
minimum. In case it is not feasible,
alternative options available are : 4.4.1.2 GAS TIGHTNESS

7
Tanks should be tight enough to prevent any - Purge release vent line.
evaporation losses and also to avoid ingress
of air and moisture. - Pressure relief valve line

For concrete outer tanks, a seal coating is - Vacuum relief line


generally provided, to prevent natural
porosity of the concrete. 4.5.2 Inlet piping shall be designed to avoid
stratification layering of LNG [Stratification
4.4.1.3 THERMAL INSULATION occurs when heavier LNG has been added at
the bottom of a tank with partially filled
Thermal insulation shall be provided to: lighter LNG or lighter LNG added at the top
of the heavier LNG or due to ageing (storing
- Limit boil-off rates (usually between for long duration ) of LNG. This leads to
0.06% and 0.1 % of total volume per day). sudden and rapid release of vapour, called
Roll-over]. This can be prevented by having
- Avoid cold spots on the outer shell. two fill lines one ending at the top of the tank
and other extending to the bottom, to inject
4.4.1.4 THERMAL STRESSES denser LNG at the top and lighter LNG at the
bottom. Mixing nozzles may also be used to
Under normal operating conditions, the tank avoid stratification.
is subjected to variation in the temperatures.
Also during start up, tank temperature is Other features of the LNG tanks are covered
required to be brought down from ambient to under Section – 6.0
cryogenic temperatures. Sometimes the tank
may require deriming for various reasons like 4.6 BOIL OFF GAS &
repair of internals, modifications etc. Hence, RELIQUEFACTION
the tanks shall be capable of withstanding the
heat variation. 4.6.1 BOG system consists of boil – off
gas recovery from the tanks, piping and to
4.5 PIPING divert it into the LNG send out system or
inject it into the pipeline transmission
4.5.1 All Nozzles for the Piping network. BOG is also used for vapour return
requirements for an LNG tank shall be from to the ship tanks during unloading thereby
the top. The piping requirements are : avoiding pressure drop in the ship tanks. If
vapour return to the ship tanks is not
- Fill lines considered, the BOG system should be
designed to handle this additional quantity
- Withdrawal line also.

- Boil-off line to remove LNG vapour. 4.6.2 During roll-over condition, the
instantaneous BOG generation is
- Cool down line for initial cooling of tanks substantially high and necessary provision
during commissioning of the tank. shall be provided to protect the tank from
- Nitrogen purge lines to purge the inner overpressure as well as to take care of the
tank and annular space. safe discharge.

- Pressure make-up line. 4.6.3 BOG Recovery/Utilisation Options:

- Pump re-circulation line.

8
i) Re-liquefaction & Recycle to Storage: 4.7.2 If the network pressure is not too high,
Liquefaction process used in the LNG in tank pumps alone may be sufficient to
production plant may be used for re- bring up to the network pressure through
liquefaction. Re-liquefaction process is less vaporisers. If the pipeline network pressure is
favourable compared to other facilities due to high, two stage pumping may be needed
higher energy consumption. which also helps in BOG reliquefaction at
intermediate pressure instead of compressing
ii) Pressurisation & Mixing with gas BOG vapours to the line pressure.
discharged from the Terminal: The boil – off
gas is compressed to the network pressure 4.7.3 The discharge pressure of the in tank
and mixed with the re-gasified product. But pump is usually guided by the re-condenser
while mixing, low calorific value of the boil pressure. The design pressure of the pump
– off gas may reduces the heating value of would also consider the chill down
the network gas. requirements of the ship unloading line.

iii) Recondensation & incorporation into the 4.8 SEND OUT SECTION
regasified LNG: The recondensation is
carried out using LNG cold released during In send out section, LNG is pumped and
vaporisation. Pressurisation of boil – off gas brought to a pressure slightly higher than the
in the liquid phase instead of gaseous phase network pressure through secondary pumps
leads to energy savings, safer operation. and vaporised & warmed to a temperature
above 00C and metered before it is sent for
iv)As a fuel gas in power generation process distribution.
or internal use.
4.8.1 Secondary Pumps :
v) The receiving terminal shall be provided
with flare system to enhance the plant safety. These Pumps are used for pumping the LNG
The flaring of BOG should be done only as a from the intermediate pressure to the network
final solution when the normal BOG pressure through vaporisers. These are
handling system is not available. generally either horizontal or vertical,
multistage turbine / submersible pumps.
4.7 LNG PUMPING
4.8.2 VAPORISATION
4.7.1 IN-TANK PUMPS
4.8.2.1 Vaporisation is accomplished by the
The tanks are provided with in-tank transfer of heat to LNG from water / ambient
submerged pumps, which are also known as air / process stream. In the vaporisation
primary pumps. These are provided as process, LNG is heated to its bubble point,
storage tanks have nozzles only at the top. vaporised and then warmed up to the
Pumps as well as the electric motor is required temperature.
submerged in LNG. Lubrication and the
cooling of the pump are done by LNG itself. 4.8.2.2 LNG vaporisers are to be designed
These pumps are installed in wells, equipped based on the quantity of heat to be exchanged
with foot valves, which can be isolated to with LNG for its vaporisation, maximum
enable pump removal for maintenance. LNG flow rate, amount of heat available in
Arrangement for foot valve seal purge, well the heating medium, lowest temperature of
purge, well draining and venting should be the heating medium.
provided.
4.8.2.3 Vaporiser tubes are generally fitted
with fins for better heat transfer. Owing to

9
the light weight, good conductivity, corrosion
strength of aluminium alloy, fin tubes are 4.8.2.7 The two types of vaporisers which
generally made of aluminium alloy. are predominantly used in LNG Terminals
are :
4.8.2.4 LNG outlet temperature
should be monitored and controlled carefully a) OPEN RACK VAPORISER
in order to avoid any LNG or cold vapour
passing into the network. It is a heat exchanger that uses water (e.g.Sea
water) as the source of heat. They are
4.8.2.5 In case of vaporisers, where water is generally constructed out of finned
used as a medium, water outer temperature aluminium alloy tubes. Corrosion protection
should be maintained higher than water is provided for surfaces that come in contact
freezing point. with water that is sprayed on the outside of
the finned tubes.
4.8.2.6 Major types of vaporisers are:
b) SUBMERGED COMBUSTION
i) HEATED VAPORISER VAPORISER
These vaporisers derive heat from the
combustion of fuel, electric power, or waste In this type, LNG flows through a tube coil
heat. fabricated from stainless steel that is
submerged in a water bath. Water contained
a) INTEGRAL HEATED VAPORISER in the bath is heated by direct contact with
hot effluent gases from submerged gas
They are classified as those heated vaporisers burner.
in which the heat source is integral to the
actual vaporising exchanger. Submerged Submerged combustion vaporiser shall not be
combustion vaporisers come under this located in an enclosed structure / building to
classification. avoid accumulation of hazardous products of
combustion.
b) REMOTE HEATED VAPORISERS
4.8.2.8 SAFETY FEATURES OF
In these type of vaporisers, the primary heat VAPORISERS AND CONNECTED
source is separated from the actual vaporising PIPING.
exchanger and an intermediate fluid (e.g.
water, steam, iso-pentane, glycol, etc.) is a) Vaporisers shall be designed for working
used as the heat transport medium. pressure at least equal to the maximum
discharge pressure of the LNG pump or
ii) AMBIENT VAPORISERS pressurised container system supplying them,
whichever is greater.
These are classified as those heated
vaporisers, which derive heat from naturally b) Manifold vaporisers shall have both inlet
occurring sources such as atmosphere, and discharge block valves at each vaporiser .
seawater or geothermal water.
c) The outlet valve of each vaporiser, piping
iii) PROCESS VAPORISERS components and relief valves installed
upstream of each vaporiser outlet valve
These vaporisers derive heat from another shall be suitable for operation at LNG
thermodynamic or chemical process or in temperature .
such a fashion as to conserve or utilise the
refrigeration from the LNG.

10
d) Suitable automatic equipment shall be a) Each vaporiser shall be provided with
provided to prevent the discharge of either safety relief valves sized in accordance with
LNG or vaporised gas into a distribution the following as applicable :
system at a temperature either above or
below the design temperature of the send out i) The relief valve capacity of heated or
system. Such automatic equipment shall be process vaporisers shall be such that the relief
independent of all other flow control systems valves will discharge 110 percent of rated
and shall incorporate shut down valves used vaporiser natural gas flow capacity without
only for contingency purposes. allowing the pressure to rise more than 10
percent above the vaporiser maximum
e) Isolation of an idle manifold vaporiser to allowable working pressure.
prevent leakage of LNG into that vaporiser
shall be accomplished with two inlet valves ii) The relief valve capacity of ambient
with safe bleed arrangement in between. vaporisers shall be such that the relief valves
will discharge at least 150 percent of rated
f) Each heated vaporiser shall be provided vaporiser natural gas flow capacity without
with safety interlock to shut off the heat allowing the pressure to rise more than 10
source from a location at least 15 m distant percent above the vaporiser maximum
from the vaporiser. The device shall also be allowable working pressure.
operable at its installed location.
b) Relief valves on heated vaporisers shall be
g) A shutoff valve to be installed on the LNG so located that they are not subjected to
line inlet to a heated vaporiser to be at least temperature exceeding 60 °C during normal
15 m away from the vaporiser. This shutoff operation unless designed to withstand higher
valve shall be operable either at installed temperature.
location or from a remote location and the
valve shall be protected from becoming c) The discharges from the relief valves shall
inoperable due to external icing conditions. be located at a safe height from adjoining
operating platform.
h) If a flammable intermediate fluid is used
with a remote heated vaporiser, shutoff 4.9 LNG COLD RECOVERY
valves shall be provided on both the hot and
cold lines of the intermediate fluid system. 4.9.1 LNG cold recovery system may be
The controls for these valves shall be located optional in an LNG Terminal. It aims at
at least 15 m from the vaporiser. recovering the part of the potential cold
energy available in LNG so as to use it
i) The vaporisers shall be fitted with local as effectively in cold utilising plants.
well as control room indications for pressure
and temperature of both fluid streams at inlet 4.9.2 LNG cold utilisation process is
and outlet. divided into :

j) Instrumentation for storage, pumping and i) Cold is used directly to cool down another
vaporisation facilities shall be designed for element, by simple heat transfer. Some of the
failsafe condition in case of power or schemes under this class are :
instrument air failure.
- Reliquefaction / recondensation of BOG
4.8.2.9 RELIEF DEVICES ON - Cooling of industrial fluids
VAPORIZERS - Air Liquefaction plants
- Food Freezing
- Power plant cooling

11
- Cold warehouse - Unloading system along with
tanker berthing system with capacity
ii) Only a portion of the cold is utilised in - LNG storage tanks, sizes and type
the receiving terminal for boil – off gas of storage tanks
reliquefication / recondensation. Remaining - Other storage tanks
cold may be utilised in the nearby industries - LNG transfer and vaporisation
for heat exchange with industrial fluids or for - No. of flares
power generation unit. - Provision for spill containment
and leak control
iii) In case of LNG cold recovery facility at - Inter distances between the equipment
the terminal, all the safety features provided - Operating and maintenance
on the LNG vaporisers shall be applicable. philosophy for grouping of utilities
- Plant and non-plant buildings
5.0 TERMINAL LAYOUT - Environmental considerations
- Scrap yards and dumping ground
5.1 PHILOSOPHY - Fire station
- Chemical storage
Terminal lay out philosophy must consider - Ware house and open storage areas.
location of the facilities at a site of suitable
size, topography and configuration with a 5.2.2 Information related to each item
view to designing the same to minimise the should include, but not limited to, following:
hazards to persons and property due to leaks
and spills of LNG and other hazardous fluids Extreme temperatures and pressures for
at site. Before selecting a site, all site related normal operations as well as emergency
characteristics which could affect the integrity conditions.
and security of the facility shall be - Concrete structures subject to
determined. A site must provide ease of access cryogenic temperatures
so that personnel, equipment, materials from - Fail safe design
offsite locations can reach the site for fire - Structural requirement
fighting or controlling spill associated hazards - Requirement of dike and vapour
or for the evacuation of the personnel. barrier.
- Shut off valves and relief devices.
OISD–STD-118 covers the layout
consideration for the oil and gas installations. 5.2.3 Data on following infrastructure
The above standard is also generally facilities should be identified and collected
applicable for consideration of layout of LNG before detailed layout activity is taken up.
Terminal. However specific points related to Due consideration should be given for the
LNG Standards are brought out here. same while deciding/finalising terminal
layout.
5.2 BASIC INFORMATION - Site location map
- Seismic characteristics and
5.2.1 Information on following items should investigation report.
be collected before proceeding with the - Soil characteristics
development of overall plot plan. - Prevailing wind speed and direction
over a period
- Terminal capacity - Meteorological data including
- Process units and capacities corrosive characteristics of the air and
- Process flow diagram indicating frequency of lightening
flow sequence - Area topography contour map
- Utility requirements

12
- High flood level in the area and worst
flood occurrence. OISD-STD-118 is to be followed as
- Source of water supply and likely applicable. In addition land access to the
entry / exit point moored ships shall be provided. If necessary,
- Electric supply source and direction a separate road may lead to the berths in
of entry point order to provide the crew with a free access
- LNG entry point/ Gas exit point to the ship.
- Minimum inter distances between
facilities as well as between facilities 5.5 LOCATION
& boundaries
- Storm water disposal point and OISD-STD-118 shall be followed as
effluent disposal point applicable. In addition the receiving terminal
- Approach roads to main Terminal should be as close as possible to the
areas unloading jetty.
- Surrounding risks
- Air routes and the proximity of the 5.6 ERECTION & MAINTENANCE
Airports.
OISD-STD-118 shall be followed as
5.3 BLOCKS applicable.

5.3.1 In addition to points indicated in 5.7 FUTURE EXPANSION


OISD-STD-118, as applicable, containment
of potential spills of LNG or other hazardous Future expansion requirement shall be
liquid, especially in case of LNG storage and assessed and provision of space for the same
jetty area should also be considered. should be made.

5.3.2 LAY OUT OF BLOCKS / 5.8 GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS


FACILITIES
Following points should be considered :
The LNG may consist of the following basic
blocks / facilities. OISD-STD-118 shall be followed as
applicable with following additional
- The Jetty for berthing of ship and requirement for LNG.
unloading of LNG. The Lay out shall consider Two specific
- Unloading line from Jetty to shore zones i.e. Gas Zone and Non-Gas Zone and
terminal. identify the applicable blocks within each
- LNG Storage zone. Minimum inter-distances between
- Re-gasification consisting of blocks / facilities shall be maintained as per
pumping and vaporisation. Table-1 of OISD-STD-118 or as per the risk
- Utility Block analysis studies whichever is higher. Inter
- Fire Station distances between specific equipment as
- Flare system mentioned below are to be maintained.
- Control Room
- Administrative Block 5.9 SPACING REQUIREMENTS OF
- Workshop LNG TANKS AND PROCESS
- Warehouse EQUIPMENT
- Electrical Substation.
- Laboratory 5.9.1 LNG TANK SPACING

5.4 ROADS

13
LNG tanks with capacity more than 265 M3 5..9.4 CONTROL ROOM AND
should be located at minimum distance of 0.7 SUBSTATION :
times the container diameter from the
property line but not less than 30 meters. i) Control Room shall be constructed as per
Minimum distance between adjacent LNG OISD-STD-163.
tanks should be 1/4 of sum of diameters of
each tank. ii) The minimum distance of 60 m shall be
maintained between LNG Storage Tank and
This standard does not consider inter distances Substation.
between LNG Storage tank below 265 M 3
capacity. However any LNG storage / 5.9.5 UNLOADING FACILITY
process equipment of capacity more than SPACING
0.5M3 shall not be located in buildings.
i) A pier or dock used for pipeline transfer of
5.9.2 VAPORIZER SPACING LNG shall be located so that any marine
vessel being loaded or unloaded is at least 30
Vaporisers and their primary heat sources m from any bridge crossing a navigable
unless the intermediate heat transfer fluid is waterway. The loading or unloading
non-flammable shall be located at least 15 m manifolds shall be at least 60m from such a
from any other source of ignition. In bridge.
multiple vaporiser installations, an adjacent
vaporiser or primary heat source is not ii)LNG and flammable refrigerant loading
considered to be a source of ignition. and unloading connections shall be at least 15
Integral heated vaporisers shall be located at m from uncontrolled sources of ignition,
least 30 m from a property line that may be process areas, storage containers, control
built upon and at least 15 m from any room and important plant structures. This
impounded LNG, flammable liquid, does not apply to structures or equipment
flammable refrigerant or flammable gas directly associated with the transfer
storage containers or tanks. Remote heated, operation.
ambient and process vaporisers shall be
located at least 30 m from a property line that 5.9.6 ELECTRICAL CLASSIFICATION
can be built upon. Remote heated and Classification of areas for Electrical
ambient vaporisers may be located within Installations in LNG Terminal shall be as per
impounding area. The inter distances in OISD-STD-113 as applicable.
multiple heated vaporisers a clearance of at
least 2 m shall be maintained. The types of
heaters are as mentioned in Section 4.5.2.
5.9.7 BUILDINGS AND STRUCTURES
5.9.3 PROCESS EQUIPMENT SPACING
i) Buildings or structural enclosures in
i) For Process equipment spacing Table which LNG, flammable refrigerant
2 of OISD-STD-118 as applicable shall be and gases are handled shall be of
followed. lightweight, non-combustible
construction with non-load-bearing
ii) Fired equipment and other sources of walls.
ignition shall be located at least 15 m from
any impounding area or container drainage
system. 6.0 LNG STORAGE TANK

14
The Liquefied Natural gas is stored at about –
162°C to –1680C. LNG tanks are required to The selection of storage tanks shall be
be designed to ensure proper liquid retention, decided based on the location, adjacent
gas tightness, thermal insulation and installations, habitation on the surrounding
environment safety. ,operational and environmental
considerations.
6.1 CLASSIFICATION OF STORAGE
SYSTEM 6.1.3 SINGLE CONTAINMENT TANK

6.1.1 GENERAL The single containment storage for liquefied


natural gas is usually dome roof, flat
bottomed tanks. In the past the most
The most common type of refrigerated common type of storage system consisted of
storage tanks were of “Single Containment a tank with a single liquid retaining container
Tank” meaning it is having a single retaining – referred as “Single Containment tank” –
compartment, surrounded by a low bund surrounded by a bund wall / dyke. (Ref.
wall. The failure of a single containment tank Figure – 1) The outer wall (if any) of a
would result in an immediate release of single containment storage system is
liquid as well as vapour to the surrounding primarily for the retention and protection of
environment and the resulting possible major insulation and is not designed to contain
hazard. To decrease the probability of failure liquid in the event of product leakage from
of a single containment tank more stringent the inner container.
requirements for material selection, design,
construction, inspection and testing were A single containment tank shall be
considered. surrounded by a bund wall / dyke to contain
any leakage.
6.1.2 Even though the probability of failure
reduces to a very low level with the above 6.1.4 DOUBLE CONTAINMENT TANK
requirements, the consequences of a failure
may be considered so serious that a
secondary protection system namely “ A double containment LNG storage tank is
Double Containment “ or “ Full designed and constructed so that both inner
Containment” is necessary to eliminate the and outer wall shall be independently capable
risk of a large inventory release around the of containing the LNG stored. The LNG is
tank in case of leakage or failure of the normally stored within the inner tank but the
primary/inner container/tank. The above outer tank shall be able to contain the LNG
protection in design results in increase safety product leakage from the inner tank. The
in containing accidental leakage of LNG. outer tank is not designed to contain product
vapour in the event of liquid leakage from the
iii) Four types of LNG Storage Tanks are inner tank. (Ref. Figure – 2 ). The outer tank
considered here. if it is made of metal it shall be of cryogenic
grade. If outer tank is made of pre-stressed
 Single Containment concrete the same shall be suitable for
withstanding temperature and hydrostatic
 Double Containment head. To minimise the pool of escaping liquid
 Full Containment in case of failure of inner tank the outer tank
should not be located at a distance exceeding
 Membrane
6 Mtrs from the inner tank.

15
6.1.5 FULL CONTAINMENT TANK with the membrane an integral gas tight
containment.
A full containment storage tank is one
meeting all the requirements of a double iv) The insulation space between the
containment storage plus the additional membrane and the concrete tank is isolated
requirement of that it shall avoid the from the vapour space of the tank. A nitrogen
uncontrolled release of product vapour in the breather system operates on the space to
event of liquid leakage from the inner tank. monitor the methane concentration and keep
(Ref. Figure – 3 ). the pressure within normal operating limits.
The nitrogen system can be used to purge the
6.1.6 A pre-stressed concrete outer tank with insulation space in the event of a leak, and is
/ without an earth embankment can be used also used for the leak tightness test
as the secondary liquid container for a double (Ammonia test).
or full containment tank. The construction of
a full height retaining wall of concrete has 6.2 SELECTION CRITERIA
the added advantage of protection against
blast overpressure and missiles. (Ref. Figure
– 4 ). If the outer tank is made of metal it 6.2.1 Safety and reliability are the most
shall be of cryogenic grade. If outer tank is important aspects for LNG storage tanks
made of pre-stressed concrete the same shall holding large inventory of flammable gas.
be suitable for withstanding temperature Majority of technical improvements on LNG
and hydrostatic head. storage tanks to date have therefore been
directed towards improvements in both safety
and reliability.
6.1.7 MEMBRANE TANK:
6.2.2 The following list summarises a
Although Membrane Tanks are currently in number of loading conditions and
use, the experience of this type is limited. considerations that have influence on the
selection of the type of storage tank.
i) The main characteristic of this type of tank
is the separation of the tightness and i) The factors which are not subjected to
mechanical strength functions. Tightness is control:
ensured by a membrane not subjected to any  Earthquake
stress. Stresses are taken up by the concrete  Wind
wall through the load bearing insulation  Snow, Climate
provided between membrane and concrete  Objects flying from outside the
wall. plant.

ii) The primary container, constituted by a ii) The factors that are subjected to
membrane is capable of containing both LNG limited control
and its vapour under normal operating  In plant flying objects
conditions and the concrete secondary  Maintenance Hazards
container which supports primary container  Pressure waves from internal
is capable of containing LNG stored in the plant explosions
primary container and of controlled venting  Fire in bund or at adjacent tank or
of the vapour resulting from product leakage plant.
of the inner tank.  Overfill, Overpressure ( process),
block discharge
iii) The vapour of the primary container  Roll over
is contained by a steel roof liner which forms

16
 Major metal failure e.g. brittle
failure The parts of LNG container which will be in
 Minor metal failure e.g. leakage contact with LNG or cold vapour shall be
 Metal fatigue, Corrosion physically and chemically compatible with
 Failure of pipe work attached to LNG. Any of the materials authorised for
bottom ,shell or roof service at (-) 168 oC by the ASME Boiler and
 Foundation collapse . Pressure Vessel Code shall be permitted.
Normally, for single containment tank,
iii). The factors that are subjected to full improved 9% Ni steel / Austentic stainless
control steel / Aluminium Magnesium alloy are used.
 Proximity of other plant For double or full containment tanks, 9% Ni
steel with impact testing is used.
 Proximity of control rooms,
offices and other buildings within
6.3.3 Liquid loading:
plant
 Proximity of habitation outside
i) The maximum filling volume of LNG
plant
container must take into consideration the
 National or local authority expansion of the liquid due to reduction in
requirements pressure to avoid overfilling.
 Requirements of the applied
design codes. ii) The inner tank shall be designed for a
liquid load at the minimum design
6.2.3 The main criteria for selection of the temperature specified. The design level
type of tank shall be decided based on the shall be the maximum liquid level specified
risk analysis study and the level of risk it is or the level 0.5 m below the top of the shell,
posing on the surrounding. whichever is lower. The outer tank (Double
and Full containment tanks only) shall be
6.2.4 There is no limit on the height of the designed to contain the maximum liquid
tank envisaged other than engineering content of the inner tank at the minimum
considerations. design temperature specified.
6.2.5 No capacity restriction for LNG tank 6.3.4 Insulation:
is envisaged considering the technological
developments in this area. i) The refrigerated storage tanks for
LNG shall be adequately insulated in order
6.3 BASIC DESIGN to minimise the boil off gas generation due
CONSIDERATIONS to heat leak from ambient. The extent of
insulation depends on boil-off
This section describes the basic design considerations for which the storage tank is
considerations for single, double or full designed. Normally boil-off rate of 0.06 to
containment tanks. 0.1 % of hold up liquid volume per day is
considered. Proper insulation shall be
6.3.1 Pressure: ensured in tank base, tank shell, tank roof,
suspended deck etc.
Maximum allowable working pressure
should include a suitable margin above the ii) The possibility of an adjacent tank
operating pressure and maximum allowable fire must be taken into consideration when
vacuum. designing insulation for LNG storage tanks.
Tank spacing, water deluge systems, quantity
6.3.2 Material of construction: and hazard index of LNG contents must be

17
considered when specifying insulating be removed by evaporation. Temperature
materials . sensors may be used for leak detection.

6.3.5 Soil protection: ii) Provision for Nitrogen purging of the


annular space should be considered. This
i) The soil under the LNG storage tank will also be useful in leak detection.
shall not be allowed to become cold. If the
soil becomes too cold, frost penetrates into 6.3.7 Pressure and Vacuum relief system
the ground, ice lenses form in the soil
(mainly in clay types of soil) and the growth The following guidelines for the design of
of these ice lenses result s in high expansion pressure and vacuum relief system of
forces which lift and damage the tank or cryogenic LNG tanks shall be provided ;
parts of the tank. To prevent such
occurrence heating system needs to operate 1) Pressure relief valve shall be entirely
in the foundation. An automatic on/off separate from the vacuum relief valve.
switch system activates the electrical heating Pressure relief valve shall relieve from inner
system and ensure that the tank foundation tank. In order to take care of mal-function of
at its coldest location within acceptable any of the relief valves due to blockage in the
temperature range i.e. +5°C to +10°C. sensor line, one extra relief valve (n+1) shall
be installed.
ii) As an alternative to electrical bottom
heating system free ventilated tank bottom 2) Vacuum relief valves shall relieve into
by elevated structure is also used. the space between the outer roof and
suspended roof.
iii) Electrical heating system shall consist of 3) Relief valves to atmosphere should be
a number of independent parallel circuits so adequately sized to relieve the worst case
designed that electrical failure of any one emergency flows, assuming that all outlets
circuit does not affect power supply to the from the tank are closed, including the outlet
remaining circuits. Electrical heating shall be to flares and also boil off gas. Vapours may
so designed that in the case of electrical safely be disposed to atmosphere, provided
failure of a main power supply cable or a that this can be accomplished without
power transformer, sufficient time is creating problems like, formation of
available to repair before damage occurs due flammable mixture at ground level or on
to excessive cooling. Alternatively, provision elevated structure where personnel are likely
for connecting a standby heating power to be present .
source should be made.
4) Provision shall be made to inject nitrogen
6.3.6 Leak Detection in annular space: or dry chemical powder at the mouth of
safety relief valve discharge.
i) Leak detection facility shall be
provided in the annular space between 5) Vacuum relief should be based on:
primary container and secondary container. withdrawal of liquid at the maximum rate,
Liquid may be present in the annular space withdrawal of vapour at the maximum
due to spillage from inner tank or leak of the compressor suction rate, variation in
inner tank. If liquid is detected in the atmospheric pressure etc.
annular space it should be removed
carefully. Tanks with an open annular space 6) A flare shall be provided for cryogenic
and not fitted with perlite insulation shall storage tank(s). The flare stack should be
have a pump to remove the liquid. For tanks continuously purged in order to avoid air
with a perlite filled annular space, liquid can

18
ingress and shall be provided with pilot line extending to the bottom. Temperature
burner. sensors are put to monitor the temperature of
the liquid throughout the liquid height at
7) Provision shall be made to maintain the regular intervals. Provision for density
internal pressure of LNG container within the measurement on tank shall be provided for
limits set by the design specification by the entire height of the tank.
releasing to flare via a pressure control valve
installed in the BOG line from tank to For taking care of over pressurisation due to
compressor. Factors that shall be considered roll over, one of the following options shall
in sizing of flare system shall include the be provided ;
following:
a) Flare system to be designed.
 Operational upsets, such as failure of b) Rupture disc to be provided on the tank
control device / BOG compressor with isolation valve (lock open condition)
tripping etc. releasing to atmosphere.
 Loss of refrigeration
 Vapour displacement and flash 6.3.9 Over-Fill of Inner Tank
vaporisation during filling
 Roll over a) Two independent type level measuring
 Drop in barometric pressure instruments shall be provided. The level
 Reduction in vapour pressure resulting instrument shall be equipped to provide
from the introduction of sub cooled LNG remote reading and high level alarm
into vapour space. signals in the control room. In addition,
an independent switches for high level
8) Safety hatch is to be fitted on outer tank in alarm and high - high level alarm with
order to take care of pressure rise in annular cut off shall be provided. The high - high
space due to leakage from inner tank and level should be hard wired directly to
subsequent vaporisation of the liquid. close the liquid inlet valves to the tank.

9) For the pressurised systems, the safety b) The tank shall not be provided with
relief valve vent shall be so positioned to over flow arrangement.
release the hydrocarbon at safe height.
6.3.10 DYKE
6.3.8 Tank Roll Over
a) Dyke shall be provided for the following
Under certain conditions "roll over" of the
liquid in the LNG tank can occur resulting in  Single containment tank
the rapid evolution of a large quantity of  Double containment with metallic outer
vapour with the potential to over pressurise tank
the tank. Stratification can occur in an LNG  Full containment with metallic outer tank
tank if the density of the liquid cargo charged  Membrane tank
to the tank is significantly different from the b) The containment volume of the dyke
left over LNG in the tank. Inlet piping must shall be equivalent to 110 % capacity of
be designed to avoid stratification of LNG. the largest tank within the dyke.
This can be done by having top and bottom
fill lines to inject denser / lighter LNG at the c) It is preferred to have single dyke for
top / bottom. Mixing of in tank LNG by each storage tank. However, single dyke
providing re-circulation facility may be may also be considered up to 120,000 m 3
considered. Mixing may also be done by of aggregated storage capacity.
providing distribution holes along the fill

19
d) No restriction of the dyke height is  outer tank and insulating material.
envisaged. ii) Chill down connections for the inner
tank.
e) High volume foam generators shall be iii) Depressurisation and purging of the
provided for the dykes. in-tank pump column.

6.3.11 OTHER SAFETY 6.4 Instrumentation and process control for


CONSIDERATIONS tanks:

i) Where refrigerated storage tanks are The instrumentation shall be suitable for the
located near process plants with a likelihood temperature at which LNG is stored. All
of exploding process equipment, the impact instrumentation shall be designed for
of flying object on the tank, one 4" valve replacement or repair under tank operating
travelling at 160 km/h ( object of 50 kg conditions in a hazardous gas zone area.
weight with a speed of 45 m/sec ) shall be Instrumentation for storage facilities shall be
considered. designed in such a way that the system
attains fail-safe condition in case of power or
ii) For the tank located within the flight instrument air failure.
path of an airport, the impact of a small
aircraft or component shall be taken care of. 6.4.1 Level : LNG containers shall be
equipped with two independent type liquid
iii) Impact of explosion wave due to level gauging devices. Refer Para 6.4.6.
major leak from a nearby natural gas pipeline Density variation shall be considered in the
or a major spill of LNG may also be selection of gauging devices.
considered.
6.4.2 Pressure : The storage tank shall be
iv) Failure of inner tank: Where a sudden provided with pressure transmitter to indicate
of failure of inner tank is considered, the pressure in control room. In case pressure
outer tank shall be designed to withstand the increases above normal operating range, it
consequent impact loading. should open the flare control valve. High
pressure switch shall be provided to close the
v) Earthquakes: The risk level is inlet receiving valve and low pressure switch
determined on the basis of the seismic shall be provided to trip boil off gas
classification of the location. The data compressors and pump out system to restrict
pertaining to the seismic activity level having the fall in operating pressure.
been ascertained, the structure is to be
designed based on IS–1893 and other Two stages of vacuum protection shall be
relevant codes. provided. Any abnormal drop in pressure will
be corrected by the automatic admission of
6.3.12 Nozzles natural gas from an outside source to the
vapour space. In the unlikely event this is
No bottom nozzles shall be provided for the not sufficient a second set of vacuum
tanks. breakers will admit air.

In addition to the nozzles used for regular 6.4.3 Temperature : As LNG is a product
operations like liquid inlet, pump outlet, of varied compositions, it would be necessary
vapour outlet and instrument connections the to measure temperature over the full tank
following provision shall also be provided. height. Measuring and recording the
i) Nitrogen connections for: formation of layers of liquid with different
 inertisation of inner tank temperatures should warn the operator of a

20
possible roll over phenomenon. In addition, 7.1.2 where an outer shell is used to retain
for monitoring of the initial chill down loose insulation , the shell shall be
operation, temperature elements are required constructed of steel or concrete. Exposed
to be provided at tank base, shell and roof. weather proofing shall have a flame spread
rating not greater than 25.
6.4.4 Gas Detectors : Automatic gas
detection system for monitoring leakage of 7.1.3 The space between the inner tank and
LNG to be installed. Adequate number of outer tank shall contain insulation that is
gas alarm sensors shall be placed on the tank compatible with LNG . The insulation shall
roof in the vicinity of roof nozzles and places be such that a fire external to the outer tank
where the possibility of gas or liquid release cannot cause significant deterioration to the
exists. insulation thermal conductivity by means
such as melting or settling.
6.4.5 Cold Detectors: Adequate number of
Cold detectors ( Temperature Sensors) for 7.1.4 The load bearing bottom insulation
monitoring leakage of LNG shall be shall be designed and installed in such a
provided in the tank roof near the vicinity of manner that cracking from thermal and
nozzles. mechanical stresses does not jeopardize the
integrity of the container.
6.4.6 Density Meters : Density Meters
shall be provided on the storage tanks to 7.1.5 Material used between the inner and
check the homogeneity of LNG. outer tank bottoms ( floors ) only shall not be
required to meet the combustibility
6.4.7 Linear and Rotational Inner Tank requirements , provided the material and
Movement Indicator design of the installation comply with all the
following:
Linear and Rotational inner tank movement
indicator shall be located with recorder i) The flame spread rating of the
between inner container and outer shell to material shall not exceed 25 , and the
record the relative movement of the liquid material shall not support continued
container with respect to outer tank. progressive combustion in air.

6.4.8 A provision in the tank for endoscopic ii) The material shall be of such
inspection ( through insertion of camera ) composition that surfaces that would be
shall also be considered. This will be helpful exposed by cutting through the material on
to know the health of the tank in the absence any plane shall have a flame spread rating not
of visual inspection of the tank. greater than 25 and shall not support
continued progressive combustion
7.0 INSULATION
iii) The combustion properties of material
7.1 CONTAINER INSULATION do not deteriorate significantly as a result
of long- term exposure to LNG or natural gas
7.1.1 Any exposed insulation shall be at the anticipated service pressure and
temperature
- noncombustible
- contain or inherently shall be vapor iv) The material in the installed
barrier condition , shall be capable of being purged
- moisture free with natural gas . The natural gas remaining
- resist dislodgment of fire water after purging shall not be significant and shall

21
not increase the combustibility of the
material. 8.1.8 The type and location of sensors
necessary for automatic operation of the
emergency shutdown (ESD) systems or its
8.0 FIRE PROTECTION , SAFETY subsystems.
AND EMERGENCY SYSTEMS
8.1.9 The availability and duties of
8.1 GENERAL individual plant personnel and the
availability of external response personnel
operating an emergency.
8.1.1 This chapter covers equipment and
procedures designed to minimise the 8.1.10 The protective equipment and
consequences from released LNG, special training necessary by the individual
flammable nature of refrigerants, liquids plant personnel for their respective
and gases related to facilities constructed emergency duties.
and arranged in accordance with this
standard. These provisions augment the 8.1.11 A detailed emergency procedure
leak and spill control provisions provided manual shall be prepared to cover the
for in other sections. This chapter also potential emergency conditions. Such
includes basic plant security provisions. procedure shall include but not necessarily
be limited to the followings:
8.1.2 Fire protection shall be provided for all
LNG facilities. The extent of such protection a) Shutdown or isolation of various
shall be determined by an evaluation based equipment in full or partial and other
upon sound fire protection engineering applicable steps to ensure that the
principles, analysis of local conditions, escape of gas or liquid is promptly cut
hazards within the facility and exposure to or off or reduced as much as possible.
from other property. The evaluation shall b) Use of fire protection facilities.
determine as a minimum: c) Notification of public authorities.
d) First aid and
8.1.3 The type, quantity and location of e) Duties of personnel.
equipment necessary for the detection and f) Communication procedure in case of
control of fires, leaks and spills of LNG, emergency
flammable refrigerants or flammable gases
all potential fires non process and electrical 8.1.12 An update emergency procedure
fires. manual shall be available in the operating
control room.
8.1.4 The methods necessary for protection
of the equipment and structures from the 8.1.13 All personnel shall be trained
effects of the fire exposure. in their respective duties contained in the
emergency manual. Those personnel
8.1.5 Fire protection water system ( refer responsible for the use of fire protection or
section 8.5) other prime emergency equipment shall be
trained in the use of equipment. Refresher
8.1.6 Fire extinguishing and other fire training of personnel shall be conducted at
control equipment's (section 8.6) least on annual basis.

8.1.7 The equipment's and process systems 8.1.14 The planning of effective fire control
to be operated with the emergency shutdown measures be co-ordinated with the authority
(ESD) system. having jurisdiction and emergency handling

22
agencies such as fire and police departments - Shuts down equipment
who are expected to respond to such which as continued operation may add to
emergencies. an emergency.

8.2 IGNITION SOURCE CONTROL 8.3.2 When equipment shutdown result in an


additional hazard or substantial mechanical
8.2.1 Smoking within the protective damage to the equipment , the shut down of
enclosure shall be prohibited. such equipment or its auxiliaries shall be
omitted from the ESD system , provided that
ii) All hot and cold work shall be carried continuos release of flammable or
out as per OISD -STD – 105. combustible fluid are controlled.

8.2.2 Vehicle and other mobile equipment 8.3.3 Vessel containing liquids that are
that constitute potential ignition sources subjected to metal overheating and
shall be prohibited within impounding areas catastropic failure from fire exposure and
or within 50 ft ( 15 m ) of containers or not otherwise protected shall be
equipment containing LNG, flammable depressurised by the ESD system.
liquids or flammable refrigerants except
when specifically authorised and under 8.3.4 Initiation of ESD system shall be
constant supervision. either manual , automatic , or both manual
and automatic , depending upon result of
8.2.3 No vehicle or other mobile equipment evaluation performed in accordance with
without flame arrestor at the exhaust should fire protection facilities . Manual actuator
be permitted within impounding areas or shall be located in an area accessible in an
within 50 ft. (15 mts.) of containers or emergency and shall be located at least 15
equipment containing LNG. meters away from the equipment and
marked distinctly and conspicuously with
8.2.4 Electrical equipment, switches, plug, their design function.
wiring etc. used within the impounding areas
of within 15 mts. Of container or equipment 8.3.5 The emergency shutdown system
containing LNG must be of flameproof type (ESD) or systems shall be of failsafe design.
either as per BIS standard or appropriate It should be installed, located or protected
OISD standard. so as it is easily operate in the event of an
emergency or failure of the normal control
8.2.5 To avoid formation and accumulation system. Emergency shutdown systems that
of static charge all the equipment, storage are not of failsafe design shall have all
tank, pipeline containing LNG should be components that are located within 15 m of
properly bonded and earthed. Continuity of the equipment to be controlled either:
earthing and bonding should be checked as
per OISD-STD-110 on regular interval. i) Installed or located where they will not
8.3 EMERGENCY SHUTDOWN be exposed to a fire or
ii) Be protected against failure due to fire
SYSTEMS exposure of at least 10 minutes duration.

8.3.1 Each LNG facility shall incorporate an 8.3.6 The emergency shutdown system shall
emergency shutdown (ESD) system that consider process safety as well as leakage of
which when operated : gas, fire, smoke as well as cold detection and
- Isolates or shutoff a linear detection. Depending on seriousness,
source of LNG , flammable refrigerant , the level of shut down is required to be
or flammable gases. graded and considered. This could be by way

23
of section isolation or total complex shut The primary source of fire and explosion
down. hazard are from a leak or spill from the LNG
storage or transfer systems.
8.3.7 Communication and interlock to be
provided between ship and terminal control
room. Provision shall be given in the jetty for 8.5.1 WATER SPRAY SYSTEM:
the above facility. During unloading
operation, the terminal operator shall take i) The fire protection scheme shall be
control of the unloading. In addition to designed on the assumption that only one
automatic shutdown system (ESD) the major fire shall occur at a time in the
terminal operator shall be in a position tom terminal.
initiate shut down of unloading.
ii) For the storage tanks, water sprays
8.4 FIRE AND LEAK DETECTION shall be provided on the tank shell including
SYSTEM the roof and the appurtenances on the tank.
For single containment tanks, water
8.4.1 Those areas including enclosed application rate for the tank roof and walls
buildings that have a potential for shall be calculated using method detailed in
flammable gas concentrations of LNG or Appendix 5 of IP Model Code of Safe
spilling of flammable refrigerant and fire Practice Part 9 of NFPA 15. The water
shall be monitored. application rate on the appurtenances shall be
10.2 1pm / m2 as per this code. For
8.4.2 Continuously monitored low double/full containment tanks, the water
temperature sensors or flammable gas application rate for the tank roof and walls
detection systems shall sound an alarm at shall be 3 1pm / m2, required for cooling the
the plant site and at a constantly attended outer shell of tanks adjoining to the one on
location. Flammable gas detection systems fire. The same shall be followed for the
shall initiate this alarm at not more than 20 concrete outer tank also.
percent at the lower flammable limit of the
gas or vapour being monitored. iii) The water densities applicable to
other equipment shall be as follows:
8.4.3 The Fire detectors shall initiate AN
audio visual alarm at the plant site and at a Vessels, structural members
constantly attended location. Piping & valves manifolds
: 10.2 l p m / m2
8.4.4 fire detectors may activate appropriate Pumps : 20.4 1p m / m2
portions of the emergency shutdown system.

8.4.5 The detection system determined shall iv) The water spray shall be divided into
be designed, installed and maintained in subsystems to provide protection to the
accordance with the OISD/NFPA standards. different sections of the tank, i.e. one system
to cover each segment of vertical wall, one
8.4.6 All identified gas zones shall be to cover the dome roof and the tank
provided with linear gas detection and appurtenances. The roof section shall be
hooked up with the ESD.. provided with duplicate 100% risers.

v) The deluge valves on the water spray


8.5 FIRE PROTECTION SYSTEM systems on the tanks as well as the pumps,
FOR LNG TERMINAL compressors, vessels etc. shall be actuated
automatically through a fire detection

24
system installed around the facilities with the protection of specific hazards , are to be
provisions of manual actuation from Control provided.
Room or locally at site.
8.6.3 A automotive and trailer mounted fire
vi) For single containment tanks as well apparatus shall not be used for any other
as double containment / full containment purpose , other than it is designated for .
tank having metallic outer tank, and
membrane tank which are having a duke , 8.6.4 Plant assigned automotive vehicles
high expansion foam systems shall be shall be provided with a minimum of one
provided as per NFPA 11A. Water turbine portable dry chemical extinguisher having
powered high expansion foam generators adequate capacity.
shall be located on the impounding area
around the storage tanks. Foam units
comprising storage facilities and pumps 8.7 PERSONNEL SAFETY
shall be provided in a safe area, removed
from the protected risk and shall be 8.7.1 Personnel shall be advised of the
accessible in an emergency. serious danger from frostbite that can result
upon contact with LNG or cold refrigerant.
Portable high expansion foam generators Suitable protective clothing and equipment
may also be provided, suitable for coupling shall be made available.
to hydrant hose lines for isolated LNG
spills. 8.7.2 Those employees who will be
involved in emergency activities shall be
vii) Fixed dry chemical powder or equipped with the necessary clothing and
nitrogen snuffing systems shall be provided equipment.
for each relief valve outlet of the LNG
storage tanks. Each set shall provide two 8.7.3 Self contained breathing apparatus
shots of dry chemicals in the event of ignition shall be provided for those employees who
during venting. may be required to enter an atmosphere that
could be injurious to health during an
viii) Fire hydrants shall be provided along emergency.
the main fire header at suitable intervals in
the process and storage areas. Fixed 8.7.4 A portable flammable gas indicator
foam/water monitors may be provided shall be readily available because LNG and
around the process areas based on hydrocarbon refrigerants within the process
requirement. equipment are usually not odorised and the
sense of smell cannot be relied upon to detect
8.6 FIRE EXTINGUISHING AND their presence.
OTHER FIRE CONTROL EQUIPMENT

8.6.1 Portable wheeled fire extinguishers


suitable for gas fires, preferably of the dry
chemical type shall be made available at
strategic locations.

8.6.2 Fixed fire extinguishing and other fire


control systems that may be appropriate for

25
9.0 SHIP TANKER RECEIVING should match LNG carrier size manoeuvring
FACILITIES AND MINIMUM PORT constraints and tug power.
FACILITIES AND BERTHING
CONDITIONS : vi) Speed Limits. Speed limits should be set
for areas in the port approach presenting
The design of ship tanker receiving and port either collision or grounding risks. These
facilities does not form part of this standard. limits should apply not only of LNG carriers
However, these paragraphs have been but also to any surrounding traffic.
included for the general guidance and
information of the users of this standard. For
detailed study, reference should be made to LNG is transported by large ship tankers and
information paper no. 14- Site Selection and unloaded in port. Further, this LNG is
Design for LNG Ports and Jetties by gasified and being sent out to the consumers .
SIGTTO. ( Society of International Gas
Tankers and Terminal Operators Ltd.) A separate shall be earmarked for LNG
unloading. A minimum distance of 500
PORT DESIGN metres. from other cargo jetties should be
kept.
i) Approach Channels. Harbour channels
should be of uniform cross sectional depth Minimum depth of the sea required to
and have a minimum width, equal to five accommodate the large LNG tankers is of
times the beam of the largest ship. order of 13 - 14 metres.

ii) Turning Circles. Turning circles should The size of the tankers, which are currently
have a minimum diameter of twice the in use, vary from 40,000 M3 to 1,60,000 M3
overall length of the largest ship to be having compartments varying between 3-5
received where current effect is minimal. numbers. This LNG from the ship should be
Where turning circles are located in areas of unloaded by minimum two liquid and one
current, diameters should be increased by the vapour arm depending on the unloading rate
anticipated drift. and spill considerations. One of the
unloading arm should be designed for the
iii) Tug Power. Available tug power, use of both liquid and vapour . All these
expressed in terms of effective Bollard pull, unloading arms are provided with an
should be sufficient to overcome the emergency shut-off arrangement (Quick
maximum wind force generated on the coupling and de-coupling) which shall
largest ship using the terminal, under the operate in case of any emergency so that no
maximum wind speed permitted for harbour liquid/vapour is passed through to the LNG
manoeuvres and with the LNG carrier’s ship. Basic criteria needs to be looked in to
engines out of action. its approach channel to the terminal, traffic
control and the berthing facilities apart from
iv)Traffic Control. A Vessel Traffic Service interface with the shore for communication,
(VTS) System should be a port requirement mooring system etc.
and this should be able to monitor and direct
the movement of all ships coming with in the Each gas terminal requires a unique risk
operating area of LNG carriers. management system and mere application of
guidelines/criteria may be insufficient. The
v) Operating Limits. Operating criteria for approach channel specification turning circle
maximum wind speed, wave height and radius, power required by tug, operating
current should be established for each limits, need to be looked into before arriving
terminal and port approach. Such limits at the final specification for port facilities.

26
the unloading rates shall increase which in
The water current in the turning areas should turn will result in larger unloading lines on
be less than 1 knot and the wind speed with the jetty and into the terminal. The
the assistance of tug would be in the order of development in the LNG ship design has
25 knots. The design criteria for mooring is reduced the boil off from 0.25% of the
contents per day to a value of 0.1%.
i) Wind speed 60 knots from any Generally the boil-off is used as a fuel in the
direction. boiler for generating the steam which in turn
is being used for power generation, rather
ii) Water current 3 knots. than putting small liquefaction plant and
using other fuels for steam/power generation.
Wind speed on the berth is to the extent of 27
knots however the unloading operations can
take place upto 30 - 35 knots and the arms to
be disconnected at 35 knots wind speed
subject to manufacturers specification.

The vessels lie alongside the jetty and the


discharge operation takes place at 1 to 1.5
metre height of the bay. With specialised
mooring arrangements, the height may go up
to 2 metre. The ship can be discharged during
the day or night if managed effectively. The
traffic control management is to ensure that
no credibility risk of breach in cargo
containment and such limits are synergies
with vessel size and manoeuvring. The ships
shall be berthed normally with head out to
sail off in the event of any emergency

The design policies and standards need to


take care of port safety and environment in
regard to

i) Coast line assessment


ii) Environmental impact assessment
iii) Risk conditions
iv) Policy development.

The security of supply is based on the


physical assessment, sparing philosophy,
reliability of equipment's and operation.

The normal distance between the jetty and


shore is between 25 to 500 metres.

The design safety and commercial criteria


for ship operations generally require that a
ship should be unloaded in 12 hours so that it
can turn around in 24 hours. With larger ships

27
10.0 REFERENCERS
1. OISD-STD-112 Safe Handling of Air Hydrocarbon Mixtures and Pyrotheric
Substances.
2. OISD-STD- 114 Hazardous Chemical Data

3. OISD-STD-116 Fire Protection Facilities for Petroleum Refineries and Oil/Gas


Processing Plants.

4. OISD-STD-118 Layout for Oil and Gas Installations- Rev 1

5. OISD-STD-155 Personnel Protective Equipment.

6. NFPA 15 ,1996 - Standard for Water Spray Fixed Systems for Fire

7. NFPA - 59 (A), 1996 Standard for production, storage and handling of LNG.

8. EEMUA - Publication no. 147


(THE ENGINEERING EQUIPMENT AND MATERIAL USERS ASSOCIATION)
9. API - 620, Appendix - Q
Design and construction of large, welded, low-pressure storage
tanks
10. BS - 7777
Part - 1 : 1993 Guide to the general provisions applying for design, construction,
installation and operation.
Part - 2 : 1993 Specification for the design and construction of single, double and full
containment metal tanks for the storage of liquefied gas at temperatures
down to - 1650C
Part - 3 : 1993 Recommendations for the design and construction of prestressed and
reinforced concrete tanks and tank foundations and the design and installation of tank
insulation, tank liners and tank coatings

11. European Standard : EN1473, Installation and equipment for liquefied natural gas –
Design of onshore installations. Reference no. EN1473 May’1997.

12. Cryogenic storage of liquefied gases - Hydrocarbon Asia, 1996

13 LNG receiving terminal design is different-DB Crauford and CA Durr, Hydrocarbon


Processing.

14 Site Selection and design for LNG ports and jetties, Information paper No.14. 1st edition
- January'1997 by Society of International Gas Tanker and Terminal Operators Ltd.

15. Tour Report of OISD functional Committee To LNG Terminals.

28
Vaccum Relief valve is designed to allow air ingress in the extreme case of vaccum formation in the tank.
Annexure-1

Page 29 of 32
E XT E RN AL WEA TH ER
B AR RIER

E XT E RN AL INS U LA TIO N

B ASE INSU LA TIO N


B UN D W AL L B OT TO M HEA TE R

F IG. - 1

Single Containment

E X T E RN AL R OO F IF R EQ UIR E D
IN S U L AT ION

E X T E RN AL WE A TH ER
IN NE R T A NK
B AR RIE R

O U T ER T AN K SH E LL

B AS E INS U LA TIO N
B OT TO M H E A TE R

F IG. - 2

Double Containment

Page 30 of 32
S US P E ND ED RO OF
(I NS UL AT E D)

O UT ER T AN K SHE LL

IN S UL AT ION ON IN SI DE
O F O UT E R T AN K SHE L L

IN NE R T A NK
L OO SE F ILL IN SU LA T ION
O R E M P TY DE PEN DI NG
O N P RO DU CT ST OR ED

B AS E INS U LA TIO N

B OT TO M HE A TE R

F IG. - 3

Figure 3
Full Containment Tank

OUT ER STEEL R OOF

SUS PEND ED RO OF
(I NSUL AT ED)

LOO SE F ILL IN SU LAT ION


OR EMP TY DEP EN DI NG
ON PRO DU CT S TOR ED OUT ER TAN K SHELL

REIN FORCED
CON CE RETE O UTER INS ULATION ON IN SI DE
TAN K W ALL OF O UTER TAN K W ALL

IN NER TA NK E AR TH
E MBA NKM ENT

B ASE INS ULA TION

Tank
B OT TOM & W ALL H EATER

F IG. - 4

Full Containment Tank with earth


embankment

Page 31 of 32
Membrane Tank

Membrane Tank ( above ground)

Page 32 of 32

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