Owens Corning

Thermal insulation solutions for LNG piping and equipment operating at cryogenic temperatures.

The equipment in LNG storage and loading facilities, and receiving terminals (except vaporizers and downstream equipment) operate at an approximate temperature of -161°C (-258°F) and require appropriate insulation.

The quality, longevity and productivity of LNG plants rely on the qualities of the thermal insulation. Reliable and long-term insulation efficiency is a prerequisite to safe and economical plant operation. It should be built into the facility through the use of proper materials and systems. If the goal of long-term efficiency is compromised, severe technical and economic problems can result.

Many LNG facilities are located in hot, humid climates, so the need for resistance to moisture vapor transmission (MVT) is critical. MVT can be excessive in these design conditions since the pipe and equipment may be operating at a continuous operating temperature of nearly -168˚C (-270˚F). Ambient temperatures in these areas are often around 32˚C (90˚F), with humidity of around 90%, and the opportunity for moisture to be driven into the insulation is therefore at a very high level.

LNG pipe with ice

Because the natural moisture drive is from hot to cold, system designers and specifiers can see how the insulation material and application selections can make or break the system.

In these processes, water vapor can enter permeable insulations and condense, which causes a build-up of water and/or ice, drastically lowering performance. When this type of insulation corruption occurs, thermal efficiency is lost and energy consumption increases dramatically. Increasing energy consumption due to a loss of thermal efficiency can be avoided by using the appropriate insulating materials and system.

FOAMGLAS® insulation is impermeable to moisture in both liquid and vapor forms. Unlike other insulation materials that must rely on protective jacketing to act as a vapor barrier, FOAMGLAS® insulation is itself a vapor barrier when joints are sealed and properly installed.

LNG pipes in UK

Fire Protection

LNG is a byproduct of hydrocarbon processing, and has significant fire potential. When selecting an insulation system, protection of the facility from potential catastrophic fire is paramount and should be considered as much as moisture resistance.

When selecting an insulation system, consider the fire resistance and wicking potential of the most common insulation materials.

FOAMGLAS® insulation is an all glass material, it will not wick flammable liquids, is non-combustible and will not produce toxic smoke.

Fire fighters

Typical configuration for service temperatures from -50°C to -180°C (-58°F to -292°F):

  • A double layer system of prefabricated shells (PSH), segments (PSG) and shapes is generally sufficient for this temperature range.
  • The insulation layers shall be designed / manufactured so that the interface temperature of the two layers is not lower than ‑50°C (-58° F).
  • System shall be applied with staggered joints.
  • Outer layer joints shall be sealed with a PITTSEAL® sealant appropriate for this application.