Framed Multi-Level LNG Production Train to Reduce Footprint
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional LNG production train designs, whether stick-built or modularized, face challenges such as large footprints, high construction costs, and complex project schedules due to inefficient modularization and placement of equipment, leading to increased complexity and uncertainty in construction execution.
Innovation Solution
A compact and modularized mid-scale LNG production train is designed with a framed multi-level structure, where air coolers are placed on the top level and process equipment underneath, strategically arranging equipment to minimize footprint, reduce capital and operating costs, and enhance safety, including the location of LNG liquefiers, compressors, and electrical components to optimize space usage and simplify maintenance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of manufacture
If conventional stick-built design is used for LNG production train, then equipment can be installed with traditional flexibility, but footprint occupies massive real estate area
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from conventional horizontal stick-built layout to a vertical three-dimensional framed structure. Process equipment is arranged on multiple levels within a steel frame, with air coolers on the top level, process equipment in intermediate levels, and piping/racks on lower levels. This vertical stacking dramatically reduces the horizontal footprint while maintaining installation flexibility through standardized modular components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements nested arrangement where smaller equipment and piping systems are integrated within the hierarchical structure of the framed module. Process equipment is positioned within the steel frame structure, piping racks are integrated along the frame, and air coolers are mounted on the top level, creating a compact nested configuration that maximizes space utilization.
2Loss of time
If conventional modularized design is used for LNG production train, then construction schedule is shortened, but footprint remains significant due to equipment layout
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies vertical stacking within modular framed structures, arranging air coolers on the top level, process equipment in intermediate levels, and piping systems on lower levels. This three-dimensional modular configuration reduces horizontal footprint by approximately 10% compared to conventional modularized designs while preserving the construction schedule benefits of modularization through pre-fabricated standardized modules.
3Ease of manufacture
If complete modularization of all train components is attempted, then construction execution complexity increases due to large number of modules and interfaces
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the LNG production train into functional modules housed within standardized steel frame structures. Each framed module contains integrated process equipment, piping racks, and utilities. This segmentation allows modular construction while managing complexity through standardized frame dimensions and modular interfaces, avoiding the need for excessive small components.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges multiple subsystems (process equipment, piping racks, electrical systems, and utilities) into integrated framed modules. By combining these elements within unified steel frame structures with standardized dimensions, the design reduces the total number of separate modules and interfaces required, simplifying construction execution while maintaining the benefits of modularization.
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
This design achieves a 30% reduction in footprint compared to conventional stick-built designs and a 10% reduction compared to conventional modularized designs, while ensuring safety and flexibility, thereby reducing project schedules and costs.
Implementation Method 1
air coolers are placed on the top level and process equipment underneath
Implementation Method 2
air coolers are placed on the top level and process equipment underneath
Implementation Method 3
framed multi-level structure with air coolers on the top level and process equipment underneath
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure provides a system and method of efficiently designing a compact and modularized midscale liquefied natural gas production train. The train includes Natural Gas Pretreatment and Natural Gas Liquefaction sections designed in a unique way that reduces footprint, capital and operating cost, and overall project schedule. The train is configured into a framed compact multi-level structure with air coolers on the top level and process equipment underneath, which results in significant reduction in footprint compared to conventional stick-built design and significant reduction in footprint compared to conventional modularized design.