Long Distance Transfer of Liquefied Gases

Abstract

Recent interest in the large scale use of liquefied gases has stimulated a re-examination of the fundamental problems associated with their production and transportation. The question to be considered here is: Is it necessary to transport the liquid in batches in transport containers, or can it be pumped over relatively long distances through pipe lines? In the considerations of long transfer lines there are two areas which must be investigated: The feasibility of cooling down the systems and the feasibility of transferring the liquids after the line has been cooled. An accurate analysis of the cooling down problem is the more difficult task; however, if sufficient provision is made for venting, any well-designed system can be cooled to its operating temperature. The primary interest here is to study the steady-state problems:

• 1) Are equipment and techniques now available for long distance transfer of liquefied gases?

• 2) Are the losses occurring in long distance transfers tolerable?