Offshore natural gas liquefaction is expected to be a reality within a few years, as several companies are currently in the tendering and engineering phases for LNG FPSOs.

The challenges with offshore liquefaction are many,with one of the major challenges being that there is no safe and reliable technology available for offshore transfer of LNG.

TORP’s HiLoad offers significant advantages compared with side by side loading or tandem loading.

• The HiLoad can connect to any standard LNG carrier without any modifications required to the carrier
• HiLoad eliminates relative motion between  the carrier and the fixed end of loading arms
• HiLoad keeps the carrier at a safe distance from the liquefaction facility and LNG tanks.
• HiLoad maintains the carrier in position with its DP system.

A floating or submerged cryogenic flexible hose is required to transfer the LNG from storage to the HiLoad. Several companies are currently developing these, and it is expected that such flexible hoses will be commercially available in 2010 – 2011.

HiLoad for LNG loading at the
Tassie Shoal Field, NW Shelf, Australia
Courtesy of MEO Australia

HiLoad for offshore LNG loading
from LNG FPSO