Floating LNG Carrier Power Plant With Modular Sponson Generators
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing floating LNG plants are limited to natural gas distribution and require extensive refurbishment of the LNG carrier, increasing production time and project risk.
Innovation Solution
A floating independent power plant (FIPP) is created by converting an LNG carrier with a regasification unit, power generator modules in subdivided sponsons, and cooling equipment, allowing modular assembly and integration with existing systems, reducing construction time and environmental impact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If an LNG carrier is converted into a floating LNG plant with extensive refurbishment, then the plant can supply natural gas to users onshore, but the production time increases and project risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The sponson structure is divided into multiple compartments, each housing independent power generator modules. This segmentation allows parallel installation and commissioning of modules, significantly reducing overall conversion time while maintaining the ability to supply natural gas to onshore users.
Solution Approach 2:
Power generator modules are designed as pre-fabricated units that can be prepared in advance and installed in the sponson compartments during the conversion process. This preliminary preparation of modules reduces on-site assembly time and accelerates the overall conversion from LNG carrier to floating power plant.
2Adaptability or versatility
If an LNG carrier is converted into a floating LNG plant with extensive refurbishment, then the plant can supply natural gas to users onshore, but project risk increases
Solution Approach 1:
The conversion is segmented into independent modules (power generators in sponson compartments) that can be tested and commissioned separately. This modular approach reduces project risk by allowing incremental validation and reducing the impact of potential failures on the overall project timeline.
Solution Approach 2:
The converted LNG carrier serves multiple functions: it maintains its original LNG storage and transport capabilities while adding power generation capabilities through the sponson modules. This multi-functionality reduces project risk by providing fallback options and increasing the asset's versatility.
3Ease of manufacture
If power generator modules are installed in the sponson, then the electricity producing elements are integrated with existing systems with limited refurbishment, but the sponson structure requires subdivision into compartments
Solution Approach 1:
The sponson is subdivided into compartments that serve as standardized housing units for power generator modules. This segmentation, while adding structural complexity, simplifies the manufacturing process by allowing modular assembly and standardized installation procedures.
Solution Approach 2:
Power generator modules are nested within the sponson compartments, with each module being a self-contained unit that fits into the predefined structural framework. This nesting approach integrates new equipment with the existing hull structure while maintaining manufacturing simplicity through standardized interfaces.
4Area of stationary object
If adjoining modular units are placed in mirror position, then deck space is saved by combining exhaust stacks, but the arrangement requires precise positioning
Solution Approach 1:
The mirror position arrangement of modular units creates a symmetric configuration that allows exhaust stacks to be combined, saving deck space. The asymmetric design of individual modules is optimized to work with this symmetric arrangement, balancing space efficiency with positioning requirements.
Solution Approach 2:
Exhaust stacks from adjoining modular units are merged into a single combined exhaust system. This merging reduces the number of separate structures on deck, saving space while the modular design maintains precise positioning through standardized mounting interfaces and alignment features.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The FIPP can supply power independently, reduce construction time, and meet stringent environmental standards by minimizing seawater use for cooling, while maintaining the initial containment system and allowing self-propulsion.
Implementation Method 1
a regasification unit, connected with an inlet to the plurality of LNG storage tanks, for regasification of stored LNG
Implementation Method 2
power generator sets, each forming one of the plurality of compartments and provided with an inlet connected to an outlet of the regasification unit for receiving fuel gas and adapted for generating electricity using the received fuel gas
Implementation Method 3
cooling equipment, coupled to the plurality of power generation modules and arranged to cool the plurality of power generation modules
Implementation Method 4
each of the compartments comprising a power generator set is provided with an exhaust stack and an air inlet in an upper side
Data Source
Figure 1
Figure 2A
Figure 2B~2C
AI summary
An FFIP comprising a converted LNG carrier with a plurality of LNG storage tanks within the hull, comprising: a regasification unit, connected with an inlet to the plurality of LNG storage tanks, for regasification of LNG; a sponson on either side of the hull, each subdivided into a plurality of equally sized compartments along the length of the sponson; a plurality of power generator modules comprising power generator sets, each forming one of the compartments and with an inlet connected to an outlet of the regasification unit, adapted for generating electricity using the fuel gas, each of the compartments comprising a power generator set being provided with an exhaust stack and an air inlet located on longitudinally opposite sides of the compartment and with the exhaust stacks of adjoining compartments being combined; and cooling equipment, coupled to the plurality of power generation modules and arranged to cool said modules.