The Last Step of the BGG Tianjin Nangang LNG Terminal Adventure
After the commissioning in November 2023 of the first two 220,000 m³ LNG membrane tanks of the Beijing Gas Group Tianjin Nangang LNG Terminal (BGG terminal), the next four corresponding to Phase II of this colossal project were commissioned at the end of June 2024. With the ongoing start-up operation of the last two tanks of the phase III, the BGG terminal construction is coming to an end, four years after the initial stages of the project.
As we reach the end of this adventure, with eight 220,000 m³ LNG membrane tanks successfully in operation, it is a great opportunity for GTT to have an insightful look on the challenges and future opportunities that have paved the way.
Since the last tanks equipped with Technigaz technology in Pyeong Taek in the 90’s, the materials and industry have evolved, as has membrane technology. This project, along with the 29,000 m³ membrane tank built in Heijan city, Hebei province, China, and commissioned in October 2022, has been the opportunity for GTT to propose an optimized technology, dedicated to the on-shore tanks, taking advantage of decades of innovation in the LNGC industry.
The GST® technology installed in the BGG terminal membrane tanks is therefore the result of years of experience and innovation, combining highly efficient materials with an optimized design and innovative construction techniques.
The materials used for the GST® technology, have been developed to achieve the optimal balance between thermal efficiency and cost effectiveness. By working closely with a network of approved suppliers for all components, GTT have been able to propose efficient and optimized materials.
One compelling example of a successful design to cost approach is the optimization of the foam density. Thanks to a dedicated creeping analysis and the support of a full test campaign, it has allowed optimising the overall density of the foam, both increasing the thermal efficiency and reducing the cost of the technology.
While GTT has continuously been developing a strong network of approved suppliers to ensure the availability of all components worldwide, this project has been one of the factor that boosted the supply chain in China.
With two different EPCs, five different companies in charge of membrane installation, two different companies in charge of the tests, all involved on different tanks, the project’s industrial scheme was an unprecedented challenge for GTT.
Therefore, the assistance provided had to be unique. During the course of the project, GTT has been greatly involved, providing EPC partners full support to ensure the success of the project. From the dedicated assistance provided by GTT specialists to train and qualify new outfitting companies before the start of the construction to the extensive on-site support with a team of up to 20 skilled representatives and assistance during commissioning operations, EPCs and outfitters could rely on GTT to ensure proper installation of the technology.
The great cooperation between all companies has made it possible to overcome these challenges and foster long-lasting partnerships between GTT and its partners, HQC and Chengda.
While the commissioning of the last two tanks is ongoing, GTT is already looking towards the future with new projects being discussed.
The GST® adventure on the onshore market is just at the beginning!
