LNG A-Box Put to the Test

LNG New Technologies and partners have successfully completed mock-up testing of the LNT A-BOX in Xiamen, China. The test project was carried out in close cooperation with Xiamen Shipbuilding Industry and MGI Thermo, and testing was witnessed by class surveyors from ABS, BV and DNV GL.

The LNT A-BOX containment system is based on an IMO independent tank type A, equipped with a full secondary barrier. It combines proven technologies in a new robust, safe and cost effective configuration. LNT A-BOX was granted an Approval in Principle (AiP) by DNV GL in 2013, and offers a number of benefits:

•    Self?supporting and solid primary barrier, and a full secondary barrier
•    Two truly independent barriers, high degree of safety
•    Full access to both barriers for inspections and maintenance
•    Cost effective design and construction
•    Easy fabrication enabling new yards to enter the LNG sector
•    Prismatic design, excellent volume utilization and flat deck layout
•    Sloshing mitigated, no loading limitations

The mock?up tests in Xiamen were carried out for procedure qualifications, demonstration and verification of the arrangement with focus on the insulation system with integrated secondary barrier. The system was exposed to extreme tests by simulating tank collapse with liquid nitrogen (?196°C), and the secondary barrier was flooded with liquid nitrogen in total four times. The fourth and last cool down was completed on Friday January 24th. No leaks or major cold spots were observed during any of the cool down cycles. The tank was entered together with class surveyors for internal inspection, and no evidence of thermal damages was observed. 

It was agreed between the parties involved and the class representatives that the tests shall be considered successful. The company is now embarking on the next phase of development which will include project development for LNG carries and other floating units based on the LNT A-BOX containment system.