LNGSpeicherbehälter

LNGSpeicherbehälter, or LNG storage tanks, are specialized containers designed for the safe and efficient storage of liquefied natural gas (LNG). LNG is natural gas that has been cooled to approximately -162 degrees Celsius (-260 degrees Fahrenheit), reducing its volume by a factor of about 600. This liquefaction process makes it feasible to transport and store large quantities of natural gas.

These tanks are typically constructed from materials that can withstand extremely low temperatures, such as specific grades of stainless steel or aluminum alloys, to prevent brittle fracture. They are designed with double walls, creating a vacuum-insulated space between the inner and outer shells. This vacuum insulation, often supplemented with superinsulation, is crucial for minimizing heat ingress and the subsequent boil-off of the LNG. Boil-off is the natural process where some of the liquefied gas evaporates due to heat entering the tank.

LNG storage tanks come in various types, with the most common being aboveground tanks, often found at import/export terminals, liquefaction plants, and regasification facilities. Underground tanks are also used, particularly for strategic reserves or in areas where space is limited or aesthetic concerns are paramount. The design and construction of LNG storage tanks adhere to strict international safety standards and regulations to ensure the integrity of the containment and prevent environmental hazards. Safety features include pressure relief systems, emergency shutdown mechanisms, and leak detection systems.