Valve World Magazine October 2024 | Page 36

LNG
to the supply network , the liquefied gas is subsequently heated evenly and thereby becomes gaseous again ,” explains the company . Top-entry valves are utilised for these applications . Advantages are , for example , that the central upper flange can be taken off and all internal components can be easily removed from the housing .
Valves affect safety and efficiency
Emerson is also aware of the challenges created by LNG . Natural gas must be constantly brought to low temperature for transport in liquid state , and many safety factors have to be implemented in many areas . “ As global demand grows , complexity and risk increase , while speed and reliability become more important than ever ,” the company explains . The selection process for valve technology can be a major influence on system safety , efficiency , reliability and therefore cost-effectiveness . Emerson has therefore developed specific solutions for the LNG sector . Emerson has , for example , developed automated valves for cryogenic use “ which can provide safe , leak-free shut-off during demanding unloading operations , including isolation , flow control and emergency shutoff ”. The company develops valves which protect the compressor from damaging excess pressure incidents . A desuperheater in turn enables accurate gas temperature control under cryogenic conditions . In order to prevent any excess pressure damage to the LNG tanks , as well as to reduce the loss of natural gas and maintenance costs , Emerson has suitable safety valves available in its portfolio . The use of digitalisation also supports processes in the LNG sector : An Emerson-designed digital valve regulator enables more precise control .
LNG supports the achievement of climate targets
But LNG is more than just a gap filler and is not only able to secure the energy supply . Rather more , liquefied natural gas contributes to the achievement of climate goals to a certain extent by releasing significantly less greenhouse gases when burning gas when compared to other fossil fuels . The possibilities of this energy source are not yet fully developed . For example , Bio-LNG , which is produced synthetically via power-to-gas processes from renewable energies , water and CO 2 , is considered to be almost CO 2 -neutral . Another option is the liquefaction of biomethane to
Vanessa™ automated valves from Emerson are designed for cryogenic applications . They are intended to ensure safe , leak-free shut-off during demanding unloading processes . [ Source : Emerson ]
Bio-LNG . It is therefore foreseeable that these developments will also provide an impetus for the development of suitable technologies .