LNG Valve Types and Applications: Understanding the Importance of GEKO Valves in LNG Systems

In the realm of LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas) systems, the selection and application of the right valves are critical for ensuring safety, efficiency, and system reliability. Valves are used extensively across various LNG stages, from storage to transportation. Among the most renowned brands for LNG valve solutions, GEKO stands out due to its innovation and high-performance standards, delivering optimal solutions across LNG applications. Below, we will explore several key valve types used in LNG systems and highlight GEKO's contribution to the industry.

1. LNG Ultra-Low Temperature Ball Valves

LNG ultra-low temperature ball valves are the most widely used and most numerous type of valve in LNG systems. They are designed to handle the extreme temperatures and pressures encountered in LNG storage and transportation.

Structural Features:

• Long-neck valve bonnet: Standard configuration for ease of operation and maintenance.
• Blow-out-proof valve stem: Ensures the valve stem is securely locked even under internal pressure, preventing the risk of blowout.
• Double Block and Bleed Functionality: Enables LNG to be purged from the valve chamber during closure, preventing abnormal pressure buildup due to heat-induced vaporization.
• Special Seat Design: Typically metal-to-metal seals or soft seals with elastic compensation structures, designed to adapt to low-temperature shrinkage.

Applications:

• LNG storage tank inlets and outlets
• Loading arm connections
• BOG (Boil-off Gas) handling systems
• Pressure reduction units and vaporizers

GEKO valves, designed for extreme temperature tolerance and seamless operation, excel in these critical applications. With GEKO's advanced materials and innovative sealing technologies, these valves ensure the smooth and safe operation of LNG facilities.

2. LNG Ultra-Low Temperature Globe Valves

Used for precise flow control or applications requiring tight shut-off capabilities, LNG globe valves are integral to regulating the flow of LNG in pipelines and systems that demand high reliability.

Structural Features:

• Angle or Y-type valve body: Low flow resistance and easy discharge to prevent medium retention.
• Disc-type valve bonnet: Designed to better withstand stress caused by temperature fluctuations.
• Bellows Seal: An essential feature that creates a metal barrier, eliminating the risk of leakage at low temperatures.

Applications:

• Flow control systems (e.g., sample extraction systems)
• High-seal-demand applications in hazardous areas
• Inlet/outlet of BOG compressors
• Instrument gas or nitrogen pipelines

With GEKO's expertise, these valves are built to handle the challenging pressures and temperatures in LNG systems, ensuring a stable, leak-free operation.

3. LNG Ultra-Low Temperature Gate Valves

Gate valves are employed in large-scale LNG pipelines where full bore and low flow resistance are necessary for complete shut-off capabilities.

Structural Features:

• Rigid wedge or elastic gate design: Designed to accommodate different shrinkage rates in the valve body and gate at low temperatures.
• Full-bore design: Minimizes flow resistance, allowing pigging (cleaning) devices to pass through easily.

Applications:

• Main LNG pipelines requiring full-bore operations
• Large inlet/outlet lines at LNG receiving stations or liquefaction plants

GEKO's gate valves offer high durability and superior sealing capabilities, making them the perfect choice for critical LNG pipeline applications where maximum flow is required.

4. LNG Ultra-Low Temperature Safety and Relief Valves

These valves are essential safety devices that protect LNG equipment and pipelines from overpressure damage.

Structural Features:

• Designed for gas-liquid phase flow: Ensures safe venting under varying flow conditions.
• Spring chamber isolation: Prevents the spring from being affected by low-temperature media.
• Reliable sealing: Ensures precise opening at set pressure and tight closure after reseating.

Applications:

• LNG tanks (main and backup safety valves)
• Overpressure protection for LNG pipelines and pressure vessels
• BOG systems

GEKO's safety valves provide exceptional reliability and precision, keeping LNG systems safe and operational, even under extreme pressure conditions.

5. LNG Ultra-Low Temperature Check Valves

Check valves prevent backflow of media, ensuring the protection of key equipment in LNG systems.

Structural Features:

• Swing or lift type designs: Ensures quick response at low flow rates.
• Reliable sealing: Prevents backpressure leakage.

Applications:

• LNG pump outlets to prevent backflow during pump shutdown
• Compressor inlets/outlets
• Pipelines where backflow conditions might occur

GEKO's check valves are built with top-quality materials that ensure durability and efficient performance, especially in preventing backflow in LNG systems.

6. Other Special LNG Valves

Low-Temperature Butterfly Valves: Used for large diameter, low-pressure drop regulation or shut-off, such as in ventilation and BOG pipelines.

Needle Valves: Used for very precise flow control in applications requiring small flow rates, such as instrument pressure lines or sampling systems.