In the rapidly evolving landscape of the energy sector, Russia is setting its sights on a dramatic increase in liquefied natural gas (LNG) production. By 2035, the Russian Government aims to boost domestic LNG output to between 80 and 140 million tons per year, a staggering 146% to 331% increase from 2022 levels. However, achieving this ambitious goal comes with significant challenges, particularly in the design and engineering of new LNG plants and their loading infrastructure. Enter Shamil M. Munirov, a researcher from the National University of Oil and Gas «Gubkin University», who has developed a groundbreaking method for hydraulic calculation of LNG loading pipelines, published in the journal ‘Известия Томского политехнического университета: Инжиниринг георесурсов’ or ‘Bulletin of Tomsk Polytechnic University: Engineering of Georesources’ in English.
Munirov’s work is particularly timely given the current geopolitical climate, where sanctions and the withdrawal of foreign licensors have made independent, competent design of LNG facilities more crucial than ever. His research focuses on developing a robust hydraulic calculation method for the loading pipelines of LNG terminals, a critical component in the LNG production and export process.
At the heart of Munirov’s method is a sophisticated approach to mathematical modeling and analytical techniques. “The developed methodology may be proposed as an addition to the Departmental Norms of Production Engineering of facilities for the production and storage of liquefied natural gas,” Munirov stated, highlighting the potential impact of his work on industry standards.
One of the key innovations in Munirov’s research is the comparative analysis of heat flows during LNG loading. By examining the heat flows of compression in a cryogenic pump and LNG circulation in the pipeline, Munirov and his team have identified strategies to reduce boil-off gas formation. This is a significant advancement, as boil-off gas can lead to inefficiencies and increased operational costs. “It is advisable in the technological design of the LNG loading pipeline to apply an approach, in which one should strive to reduce the cryogenic pump discharge pressure,” Munirov explained, offering a practical recommendation for LNG plant designers.
The implications of Munirov’s research are far-reaching. As Russia seeks to expand its LNG production, the ability to design and build efficient, cost-effective loading pipelines will be crucial. Munirov’s method provides a solid foundation for this, offering a way to optimize pipeline performance and reduce operational costs.
Moreover, the potential for this research to shape future developments in the field is immense. As other countries look to increase their LNG production, the insights gained from Munirov’s work could be applied globally, driving innovation and efficiency in the energy sector. The method’s successful testing on the Yamal LNG plant’s loading pipeline further underscores its practical applicability and potential for widespread adoption.
In an industry where every percentage point of efficiency can translate to millions of dollars in savings, Munirov’s work represents a significant step forward. As the energy sector continues to evolve, the need for independent, innovative solutions will only grow. Munirov’s research, published in ‘Bulletin of Tomsk Polytechnic University: Engineering of Georesources’, offers a compelling example of how academic rigor and industry relevance can come together to drive progress. The energy sector would do well to take note, as the future of LNG production may well be shaped by the insights and innovations emerging from this groundbreaking research.