PTQ Gas 2022 Issue

The use of process knowledge for securing multiple objective solu- tions in LNG liquefaction improves operations and overall infrastruc- ture. Diagnostic analytics and spe- cialised services can also play a more prominent role, along with condition monitoring. This includes technology to listen to machines and use the generated acoustical data combined with AI and ML algorithms to diagnose plant health. The competitive global LNG mar- ket has traditionally favoured scale, like the mega-LNG facilities seen in Qatar and along the US Gulf Coast. There are nonetheless regions (such as the Caribbean Basin) that ben- efit from nimble small-scale LNG (ssLNG) exporters, such as fuelling solutions for marine industries, as well as supporting grid constrained power generation (see Figure 2 ). Novel solutions Opportunities are available for first movers in the ssLNG industry capa- ble of delivering novel solutions. For example, smaller markets in the Caribbean, Central America, and parts of South America benefit from access to modular ssLNG infra- structure. In these regions, there are many power needs where there is no grid access to balance the inter- mittency of renewable fuel sources like wind and solar. Sustainability focused companies for whom certain renewables do not fit are carefully integrating LNG (and later H 2 ) into their decarboni- sation options. For example, nimble business models lead to the devel- opment of customised solutions with LNG. Hydrogen H 2 has enormous potential to become an important part of a decarbonised energy system, which is why countries across the world are making H 2 a keystone to a sus- tainable, cost-effective energy source. To meet market demand for emerging applications, exporters can leverage existing LNG infrastructure (such as cryogenics, terminals) for waterborne liquid H 2 shipment. Blending H 2 into the existing nat- ural gas infrastructure has national and regional benefits for energy stor -

Figure 2 Small-scale LNG facilities are capturing niche market opportunities ( Photo courtesy of Eagle LNG )

industry’s focus on improving liq- uefaction processes to improve pro- duction while also saving energy. Refrigerant composition is a major key variable, and up to half of energy consumption (such as fuel gas) can be reduced by changing operating conditions and refrigerant composition. Optimisation of LNG mixed refrigerant (MR) processes takes into consideration operation and design objectives. In any case, min- imising compressor power is the most crucial operational target. Compared to mega LNG produc- ers, smaller suppliers deliver value by developing efficient supply arrangements for end users in niche markets, as seen in the Caribbean Basin (cruise liners, power gener- ation in remote islands). In addi- tion, small-scale LNG exports are increasing in support of utility peak shaving for electrical grids in devel- oping areas. Reliability of equipment As world-scale LNG trains become larger, big data diagnostics of an LNG plant’s liquefaction section provide early warning of potential anomalies, such as high gas tur- bine exhaust speed. For example, analytics derived from big data has increased uptime of Baker Hughes’ LM 9000 gas turbines and linked subsystems. According to infor- mation from Baker Hughes, diag- nostic analytics of the liquefaction section includes site teams to help implement actions and schedule inspections.

components require midstream sul- phur removal infrastructure involv- ing absorption, extraction, oxidation, dehydration, and conversion pro- cesses to yield elemental sulphur, as discussed in the accompanying arti- cles in this issue of Gas . LNG LNG related applications are becom- ing a big part of the industrial and transportation sector’s transition to NZEs. Incentives for LNG market expansion take on various forms worldwide, such as investments in certain LNG plants categorised as sustainable and ‘green’ under rules proposed by the European Commission in March 2022. This recognition is an impor- tant metric for investors favouring green investments that need mas- sive amounts of private capital to meet climate change targets. LNG combustion yields exceptionally low emissions, including emissions (SOx, CO 2 ), allowing for easier per- mitting and favoured by investors. Regulations are shaking up mar- kets once dominated by distillate and heavy fuel oil, predicating the opportunity for LNG to fill the void. In addition, petroleum refiners may see more value in converting middle distillate to petrochemicals rather than diesel-range products. This development will open opportuni- ties to replace diesel/distillate, such as maritime shipping, with LNG. World-scale plants LNG liquefaction is an energy- intensive process, compelling the

8 Gas 2022