In the rapidly evolving energy sector, the demand for liquefied natural gas (LNG) has surged, driven by the need for cleaner energy sources. Transporting natural gas over long distances via pipelines is often impractical, making LNG a viable solution. However, the construction of LNG plants faces significant challenges, particularly in material selection and cost management. A recent study published in the *Journal of Materials Exploration and Findings* (translated from Indonesian as *Journal of Materials Exploration and Findings*) offers a novel approach to optimizing pipe thickness selection for cryogenic services, potentially revolutionizing LNG plant construction.
The study, led by Ari Agustar from the Program Studi Pendidikan Profesi Insinyur at Atma Jaya Catholic University in Jakarta, Indonesia, focuses on the use of stainless steel (SS) pipes in cryogenic services. Stainless steel is often chosen for its ability to withstand extremely low temperatures, but it comes at a higher cost compared to carbon steel (CS) pipes. Agustar’s research introduces an alternative philosophy to the traditional full-flange rating method, aiming to reduce the thickness of SS pipes without compromising safety or engineering standards.
“The philosophy of the pipe wall-thickness calculation method utilized in this paper showed no impact on the class 150 rating due to the selected thicknesses being equal or higher,” Agustar explains. “However, the class 300 rating successfully reduced pipe selected thickness for pipe sizes larger than 24 inches ranging from 20.15% to 31.1%, and for class 600 rating successfully reduced the thickness ranging from 6.28% to 16.55% for pipe sizes 10 inches and larger.”
The implications of this research are substantial. By reducing the thickness of SS pipes, the overall weight of the piping system decreases, leading to significant cost savings. Agustar’s study reports an overall pipe thickness reduction that resulted in a weight reduction of approximately 91.84 tons for cryogenic services. This reduction not only lowers material costs but also decreases transportation and installation expenses, making LNG plant construction more economical.
The commercial impact of this research extends beyond cost savings. As the energy sector continues to seek more efficient and cost-effective solutions, Agustar’s method could become a standard practice in LNG plant construction. The potential for extending this philosophy to other services within the entire LNG production train opens up new avenues for cost optimization and resource management.
“This philosophy of the pipe wall-thickness calculation method for cryogenic services can be extended to all other services in the entire LNG production train to gain maximum cost savings for the pipe purchasing cost,” Agustar notes. The study’s findings could pave the way for more innovative and sustainable practices in the energy sector, ultimately benefiting both industry stakeholders and consumers.
As the demand for LNG continues to grow, research like Agustar’s plays a crucial role in shaping the future of energy infrastructure. By challenging conventional methods and introducing cost-effective alternatives, the study not only advances engineering practices but also contributes to the broader goal of sustainable energy development. The energy sector stands to gain significantly from these advancements, ensuring a more efficient and economical approach to LNG plant construction.