LNG 저온 플랜지 응용 분야 설명
The global demand for cleaner energy has made liquefied natural gas (LNG) 현대 에너지 믹스의 초석. LNG를 효과적으로 운송하고 저장하기 위해, 전체 공급망—생산, 액화, shipping, 저장, and regasification—relies on components capable of withstanding cryogenic temperatures as low as -162°C.
Among these components, low-temperature flanges play a vital role in maintaining the structural integrity and leak-free performance of critical connections. 이 기사에서는, we will explore the applications of low-temperature flanges in LNG systems, examining the materials, design standards, sealing considerations, and engineering challenges involved.
SASAFLANGE
Why LNG Systems Require Low-Temperature Flanges
LNG is stored and transported in a liquefied state at cryogenic temperatures to reduce its volume. These ultra-cold temperatures present several engineering challenges:
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Material embrittlement at low temperatures
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Thermal contraction and expansion stresses
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Vibration and pressure fluctuations during loading/unloading
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Risk of leakage due to gasket failure or joint misalignment
Flanges used in LNG applications must therefore:
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Remain ductile and crack-resistant in cryogenic conditions
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제공하다 reliable sealing over wide temperature and pressure ranges
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Be compatible with insulation systems to prevent frost buildup
Common Applications of Low-Temperature Flanges in LNG Systems
| LNG Process Area | Flange Application |
|---|---|
| Liquefaction Plant | Heat exchanger outlets, compressor connections |
| LNG Storage Tank | Inlet/outlet nozzles, vent lines |
| LNG Carrier Vessel | Cargo piping, spray lines, ESD valves |
| Loading Arm Systems | Swivel joints, disconnect couplings |
| Regasification Terminal | Vaporizer piping, send-out lines |
These flanges are used in both cryogenic liquid 그리고 cold vapor 서비스, requiring durable performance in dynamic thermal environments.
Suitable Flange Materials for LNG Service
Material selection is crucial in cryogenic applications. The flange must retain 인성, 연성, 기계적 강도와 at temperatures approaching -162°C. 일반적인 재료는 다음과 같습니다:
1. ASTM A350 LF2 (탄소강 – 저온)
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Minimum Charpy impact test at -46°C
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Often used in non-critical cold vapor lines
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비용 효율적, but not suitable for cryogenic liquid exposure
2. ASTM A182 F304/F304L and F316/F316L (스테인레스 스틸)
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Good cryogenic properties
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Excellent corrosion resistance in LNG vapor service
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Commonly used in piping, 밸브, and flange assemblies
3. ASTM A182 F321 and F347
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Stabilized stainless steels for high thermal cycling
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Used in lines exposed to frequent temperature changes
4. 니켈 합금 (예를 들어, 인코넬 625, 하스텔로이)
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Superior cryogenic performance and corrosion resistance
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Applied in critical LNG transfer lines and submerged service
5. Aluminum Alloys
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Used in certain tank and heat exchanger components
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Lightweight and good low-temp resistance, but not widely used for flanges
SASAFLANGE provides flanges in certified low-temperature materials with full MTC documentation and impact-tested grades.
Types of Flanges Used in LNG Systems
The selection of flange type depends on pressure class, flow requirements, and accessibility. Common flange types for LNG service include:
1. 용접 목 플랜지 (WN)
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Strong and resistant to stress
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Ideal for high-pressure and cryogenic applications
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Provides smooth flow with minimal turbulence
2. 슬립온 플랜지 (그래서)
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Easier alignment, but lower strength
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Used in low-pressure vapor lines
3. 블라인드 플랜지
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Used to seal the ends of pipelines and vessels
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Essential for pressure testing and future expansions
4. 랩 조인트 플랜지
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Works with a stub end
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Useful in systems requiring frequent dismantling
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Enables cost savings by using corrosion-resistant stub ends
5. Socket Weld and Threaded Flanges
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Less common in LNG due to limitations under thermal cycling
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Used in small-bore instrumentation or auxiliary lines
SASAFLANGE manufactures ASME and EN standard cryogenic flanges with precision machining and dimensional accuracy suitable for LNG operations.
Sealing Technologies for Cryogenic Flanges
Achieving a tight seal is particularly difficult at cryogenic temperatures due to gasket shrinkage, 열 순환, 그리고 differential expansion.
Recommended Gasket Materials:
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나선형 상처 개스킷 (봄 여름 시즌 + PTFE/Graphite)
Flexible and high pressure-tolerant -
Kammprofile Gaskets
Superior sealing with a metal core and soft sealing layers -
Corrugated Metal Gaskets
High recovery and good for cycling conditions -
PTFE Envelope Gaskets
Excellent chemical and cryogenic resistance
Sealing Considerations:
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사용 serrated flange faces to improve gasket grip
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Apply proper torque patterns to avoid uneven loading
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Install insulating kits where galvanic corrosion may occur
Engineering Considerations for LNG Flanges
1. Thermal Contraction
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Metal shrinks at cryogenic temperatures
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Allowances must be made in pipe alignment and bolt torque
2. Insulation Compatibility
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Flanges may be wrapped in perlite, foam glass, or polyurethane insulation
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Vapour barrier and sealing must not interfere with flange access
3. Vibration and Expansion
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Use expansion joints to absorb pipeline movement
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Design bolting to resist dynamic loads
4. 비파괴 테스트 (NDT)
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Flanges in LNG service often require radiography and ultrasonic testing
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Material certification must include Charpy impact values
표준 및 인증
LNG low-temperature flanges must meet global engineering standards for material, 설계, 및 검사:
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ASME B16.5 / B16.47 – Flange dimensions and pressure ratings
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ASTM A350 / A182 – Low-temp and stainless material grades
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EN 1092-1 – European standard flange dimensions
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MSS-SP-44 – Large diameter steel flanges
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ISO 28921-1 / 2 – Valve and flange standards for cryogenic service
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NACE MR0175 / ISO 15156 – Sour gas resistance if applicable
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EN 10204 3.1 / 3.2 – Material test certificate requirements
SASAFLANGE supplies LNG flanges with full traceability, impact-tested certifications, and compliance with global codes.
LNG Project Case Studies: Flange Application
Case 1: Floating LNG Production Unit (FLNG)
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애플리케이션: LNG loading line from liquefaction module
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플랜지: ASTM A182 F316L WN flanges, RTJ face
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Gaskets: Spiral wound with PTFE filler
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특징: Tested at -196°C with NDT and PMI verified
Case 2: LNG Import Terminal
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애플리케이션: Submerged send-out pump connection
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플랜지: 인코넬 625 lap joint with stainless stub ends
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Gaskets: Kammprofile with graphite layers
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특징: Cryogenic insulation and fire protection coating applied
유지보수 및 검사
Routine inspection is vital for LNG system safety:
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Visual inspections for frost lines, 누출, or bolt loosening
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Torque checks on fasteners due to thermal cycling
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Periodic replacement of gaskets and sealants
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Corrosion checks around insulation breaches
SASAFLANGE also offers post-installation inspection support and flange replacement kits for maintenance projects.
결론
Low-temperature flanges are foundational to the safe, 효율적인, and long-lasting operation of LNG systems. From liquefaction plants to regasification terminals, these flanges must meet demanding requirements in terms of material performance, 치수 정확도, 밀봉 신뢰성, 그리고 코드 준수.
~에 SASAFLANGE, we provide specialized flange solutions engineered for LNG environments, 포함 cryogenic material grades, advanced sealing systems, 그리고 compliance with ASME and EN standards. Our flanges are manufactured to withstand extreme cold, 진동, 그리고 압력, ensuring your LNG operation runs safely and smoothly.

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