company logo
Process automation

Search system

Organization Sectors

Solving the problem of ice build-up in LNG facilities

CASE STUDY

Solving the problem of ice build-up in LNG facilities

IMI Publications

Written By IMI Publications

March 23, 2023

The Challenge

The plant operator suspected that process changes in the plant were causing ice formation in the disk stack that reduced the valve flow capacity (Cv). Over a period of time, the valve flow capacity continued to decrease with increased stroke affecting their production. As an interim solution, the operator shut down the unit to allow the valve to return to ambient temperature before restarting the unit. As this affected the production, a quick solution to this challenging technical issue was needed. Thanks to a longstanding relationship with the operator, they turned to IMI CCI for a solution. ​

imicci-cs01016-01-17en-aw-dig-page-1-image-0002-png

The Solution

IMI CCI deployed one of its highly experienced Valve Doctors® to analyse the problem and propose a solution.

Having had previous experience of solving similar problems at other LNG facilities, IMI CCI proposed a hybrid cage design that had disk stacks at the bottom with larger passages and an anti-hydrate cage at the top with counter-bored holes to prevent ice formation.

Previous experience at LNG facilities helped IMI CCI turn around a technical recommendation and quote within just two days. Although the technology is tried and trusted, the valve design needed to be highly customised to meet the precise operating environment seen at the site.

The customer confirmed their order within days, and the new large passage disk stack and anti-hydrate cage was delivered in just five weeks, to co-ordinate with a planned outage at the plant.

Thanks to the technical expertise of IMI CCI, and the swift turnaround of the new parts, the plant can now run at higher loads and for longer periods of time without any reduction in capacity.​

IMI newsletter subscription promotional image

Keep in touch

Stay up to date on all the latest news and articles from IMI.

Engineering the future together

Looking for the perfect flow control solution? Our experts specialise in providing tailored solutions to meet your unique needs. Let us help you achieve optimal performance, efficiency and safety.
PA Hero April25 slide03