Release Date: September 29, 2003

A recent study conducted by Conversion Gas Imports (CGI), L.L.C. and Ebara International tested the largest LNG production pump ever made.  The first of three critical component tests, this trial was performed at discharge pressures exceeding 2,000 pounds per square inch (psi).  The successful assessment laid the foundation for a pump design that would operate at large volumes and at pressures that exceed 2,400 psi.

The National Technology Energy Lab recently awarded a project to CGI to field test the critical components of a novel LNG process known as the “Bishop Process.”  High-pressure, high volume LNG pumps are a critical component of the Bishop Process salt cavern-based LNG receiving terminals.  These pumps allow ships to be unloaded quickly and directly into salt storage caverns.

The Bishop Process has the potential to significantly increase world LNG trade and provide a highly secure, economical, and flexible way to expand LNG imports and augment the Nation’s energy supply.  Even if operated at full capacity, existing LNG facilities could not satisfy the projected needs, and many new facilities would have to be built.  The salt cavern-based design has the potential to not only revolutionize the LNG industry, but provide the projected LNG imports faster, cheaper and more securely than conventional LNG facilities.

For more information, see July 22, 2003, DOE TechLine “Storing Liquefied Natural Gas in Underground Salt Caverns Could Boost Global LNG Trade.